Presbyterian Church Offers Redress to Pimm Abuse Survivors

The Presbyterian Church has announced it is offering redress to survivors of David Wentworth Pimm, a former minister accused of historic abuse. The church stated it is currently working with three victims of Pimm’s abuse and, from information received, believes there to be more.

Church officials emphasized that survivors were not to blame for the abuse and that the church failed to protect them. They acknowledged the harm caused and expressed deep regret over the church’s past actions.

The church admitted it did not act when concerns were raised and failed to uphold its own child protection policies. Officials said the breach of trust was unjustifiable and that they now focus on accountability and transparency.

Efforts to prevent future harm are ongoing, with the church implementing mandated protective policies. All church representatives and workers must adhere to a code of ethics, and child protection policies must be enforced where members are responsible for children.

David Wentworth Pimm was based at various churches across the country between 1955 and 2003, including locations on the West Coast and in several regions of New Zealand.