The Pride in Surrey (PiS) event took place this weekend in Guildford despite the ongoing fallout from the conviction of its co-founder, Stephen Ireland, for raping a 12-year-old boy. Ireland received a sentence of 24 years in prison in June 2024, while his former partner, David Sutton, was sentenced to four-and-a-half years for possessing indecent photographs of children. Their sentencing has raised serious questions about the organization and its future.
Ireland co-founded PiS in 2018 and, over the years, used the event to gain respectability within the community. His arrest in April 2024 came after a series of offenses, but despite these serious allegations, PiS proceeded with the event this year. Ireland held a position as a director and head of safeguarding within the organization until shortly before his sentencing, which has led to widespread scrutiny of how such individuals were able to operate within a community-focused event.
Concerns about Ireland’s behavior had been noted prior to his arrest, with numerous women in Surrey expressing unease. Evidence included a photograph of Ireland with a girl believed to be just 17 years old, posing in a manner that raised alarm. Yet, whistleblowers’ reports went largely unaddressed until the bravery of the young victim prompted legal action against Ireland and Sutton.
The implications of their crimes extend beyond personal accountability. Both men were also convicted for perverting the course of justice by destroying evidence related to PiS. A phone, designated for event-related communications, was found to contain a message from Ireland instructing Sutton to delete all content. This phone has never been recovered.
Event Proceeds Amid Outcry for Safeguarding Review
Given the gravity of the situation, many anticipated that PiS would face a comprehensive review of its safeguarding policies before proceeding with the 2025 event. Numerous organizations, including Women in Surrey, have campaigned for transparency and accountability. Yet, the event went ahead, with attendees expressing mixed feelings about the ongoing controversies.
During the event, questions regarding safeguarding measures were posed to Zoe Franklin, the Liberal Democrat MP for Guildford. As she became increasingly evasive, the situation escalated, leading to the intervention of event organizers who requested the removal of the questioning party. A spokesperson for the Liberal Democrats later contested claims that Franklin had sought the expulsion of the interviewers.
The lack of clarity surrounding safeguarding measures raised alarms. PiS claimed on its website that Surrey Police had indicated no concerns regarding its policies. However, the Police and Crime Commissioner, Lisa Townsend, clarified on social media that the police had not made such an assertion. This discrepancy underscores the confusion surrounding the event’s safety protocols.
Attending the event revealed a troubling lack of awareness among officials about safeguarding policies implemented since the scandal. Many connected to PiS did not seem to acknowledge the need for an independent review of their practices, particularly as the organization is now led by former associates of Ireland.
Calls for Accountability Following Child Abuse Scandal
The continuation of the PiS event, despite the serious crimes committed by its co-founders, raises significant ethical questions. Critics argue that allowing the event to proceed without a thorough review is disrespectful to the victims of Ireland and Sutton. Surrey County Council has distanced itself from the event, recognizing the sensitivity of the situation.
There is a pressing need for a root-and-branch review of the organization to ensure transparency and accountability. Without such measures, many believe that the event poses a risk to the very community it seeks to support. The ongoing situation highlights a troubling disregard for safeguarding, which should be paramount in any organization involving vulnerable populations.
In conclusion, the decision to hold Pride in Surrey this year, despite serious allegations against its founders, raises significant concerns about the organization’s commitment to ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all attendees. Without a comprehensive safeguarding review, the future of PiS remains uncertain and contentious.
