A church co-leader has "stepped back" while "non-recent safeguarding concerns" relating to him are investigated.

Rev Canon Mike Pilavachi set up the Soul Survivor Christian youth festival and is the associate pastor for Soul Survivor Watford, in Greycaine Road.

Canon Pilavachi and Soul Survivor have "mutually agreed" that he steps back from all ministry while an investigation is carried out by the Church of England, following concerns being reported.

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A joint statement from the Church of England National Safeguarding Team, the St Albans Diocese, and the Soul Survivor Watford trustees was read out at a service on April 2.

It explained that the investigation is being conducted independently from Soul Survivor Watford, and it is unclear when it will conclude.

"We can assure you that support is being offered to all those involved," the statement added.

A second statement, on behalf of the trustees, was also read out by acting chair of the trustees David Mitchell.

He said: “Whilst I cannot add to what has been said in the joint statement, I would like to underline the point that Mike is not under criminal investigation, has not been suspended and that the concerns currently relate to matters which occurred a considerable time ago.

“Nothing should be inferred from Mike stepping back; this is perfectly normal following the start of an investigation that has not reached a conclusion.

“We mutually agreed this was the best step because of the importance of correct procedures being followed.”

“We understand this may be very difficult information to absorb,” he added.

The full statements are available on the church website. Soul Survivor’s day-to-day activities will continue to run.

Watford Observer: Rev Canon Mike PilavachiRev Canon Mike Pilavachi (Image: Soul Survivor)

Anyone with their own safeguarding concerns were asked to contact Jeremy Hirst from the diocese's safeguarding team at safeguarding@stalbans.anglican.org or Ian Bowles and Anthony Clarke from the national safeguarding team at safeguarding@churchofengland.org.

Church members were assured “any safeguarding concerns raised will be treated with utmost sensitivity”.

Rev Canon Mike Pilavachi started the Soul Survivor charity, has been awarded an MBE for his services to young people, and has written a number of books.