Pledge re. NDAs

The Cathedral’s Chapter (i.e. governing body) has adopted the following:

Pledge regarding the Use of Non-Disclosure, Non-Disparagement, and other Confidentiality Agreements by the Cathedral

We are committed to conducting all of our affairs in a way that’s consistent with Biblical principles, and for the good of all we serve. We are committed to the protection of the vulnerable, the pursuit of truth, justice, repentance from sin, and reconciliation where there are broken relationships. We see a place for appropriate and reasonable uses of confidentiality agreements where they are consistent with our principles, but we are committed never to using confidentiality agreements to hide or cover up sin, misconduct, or conflict. We are committed to preserving the freedom of all people to make formal complaints about the conduct of others. We will not seek to preference our reputation at the expense of truth. We are committed to dealing with misconduct and conflict in the light rather than in the darkness.

This pledge follows Synod’s consideration last year of the use of NDAs, and its recommendation that parishes (as well as diocesan organisations and schools) adopt a policy or make a public pledge in relation to the use of NDAs. (In September 2025, Synod also offered it apology for the use of NDAs by our churches and organisations that had not met the principles adopted by the Synod.)

This page – Non-Disclosure Agreements report – includes a link to the report received by Synod on the matter, which was theologically thoughtful and pastorally and practically aware, along with links to the model policy and pledge alternatives, that were developed in response.