In the Media
Michelle Burns is the founder of Guarding the Flock and a safeguarding practitioner whose work focuses on spiritual abuse, coercive dynamics within church settings, and institutional accountability.
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She has contributed to safeguarding discourse through features and commentary in outlets including Church Times, drawing on lived professional experience within church safeguarding structures.
Her work examines patterns of aggressive mimicry and institutional minimisation of harm, and advocates for survivor-informed, robust safeguarding practice within faith settings.
For media enquiries, interview requests, or commentary get in touch.
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Selected Publications & Media Appearances
Journal of Anglican Studies (Cambridge University Press) – March 2026
Cited in “New Installation, Same Old Problems” (Martyn Percy), contributing to academic discourse on Anglican governance and institutional challenges.
The Telegraph – March 2026
Published letter contributing to national discussion on clergy wellbeing.
Church Times - March 2026
Quote of the Week, featuring a response on clergy mental health.
Thinking Anglicans – Feb 2026
Author of an opinion piece exposing the illusion of independent safeguarding oversight and the realities of regulatory capture.
Highlighted concerns about independence and conflicts of interest, and called for a transparent, survivor-centred process.
Contributor and whistleblower to national coverage examining safeguarding concerns, with a focus on institutional accountability and the impact on those affected.
Referenced in coverage of a tribunal ruling involving an aggrieved curate, examining procedural fairness and safeguarding processes.
Contributing to Channel 4 News coverage on safeguarding and accountability, interviewed by Cathy Newman.