Conservative Candidate in UK Under Scrutiny for Church’s Endorsement of Conversion Therapy

An independent investigation has revealed that Miriam Cates, a Conservative candidate running for re-election in South Yorkshire‘s Penistone and Stockbridge constituency, was a trustee at a Sheffield church that endorsed conversion therapy between 2014 and 2019.

The report, commissioned by the Church of England‘s Diocese of Sheffield and conducted by children’s charity Barnardo’s, found that Cates had been a member of St Thomas Philadelphia Church from 2003 to 2018, serving as a trustee from 2016 to 2018.

While there is no evidence to suggest Cates had direct knowledge of the conversion therapy practices, the report highlighted that it was openly discussed as part of the church’s culture during her time as a member and trustee.

One individual, Matt Drapper, claimed to have been subjected to an ‘exorcism’ ritual at the church in 2014, leading to a formal complaint after Cates had left the church.

In response to the findings, Cates denied advocating for conversion therapy, stating that she was unaware of the allegations made by Drapper and had not participated in such activities.

The Bishop of Sheffield, Peter Wilcox, issued an apology and pledged to monitor the implementation of an action plan by the church to enhance safeguarding measures.

Candidates in the general election in Penistone and Stockbridge include Andy Davies (Green), Edward Dillingham (Reform UK), Rob Reiss (Liberal Democrats), and Marie Tidball (Labour).