MATT ROBINSON FROM WATFORD INVOLVED IN CHILD SEX OFFENCE SCANDAL AT SOUL SURVIVOR CHURCH
In a disturbing development, it has been revealed that Matt Robinson, a former caretaker at the well-known Soul Survivor church in Watford, was convicted of attempting to facilitate a child sex offence.This revelation adds to the ongoing safeguarding crisis that has engulfed the church, which has been under intense scrutiny due to allegations against its former leader, Rev Canon Mike Pilavachi.
Robinson’s criminal case dates back to investigations that began in 2018, when he was suspended from his duties at Soul Survivor Watford amid serious allegations.
The church, which has a significant following and a history of international outreach, announced his suspension in October 2018 after reports surfaced that he had groomed children online.
The initial arrest was reportedly triggered by members of the public claiming to be part of an online child protection group, who reported inappropriate online conversations involving Robinson.
Following his arrest, the church issued a statement expressing concern over the situation, emphasizing that Robinson had resigned from his role and was receiving pastoral support outside of the church community.
The church also clarified that it had cooperated fully with police investigations, which were conducted by Hertfordshire police.
Robinson’s trial at St Albans Crown Court culminated in 2021, where he was found guilty of attempting to facilitate a child sex offence.
He was sentenced to two years in prison, suspended for two years, highlighting the severity of his actions.
Details of Robinson’s conviction reveal that he was 28 years old at the time of his arrest, which occurred on October 12, 2018.
The police confirmed that Robinson’s case was part of a broader effort to combat online grooming and child exploitation.
The Hertfordshire Police spokesperson stated that Robinson received a 24-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, and emphasized the ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable children and hold offenders accountable.
Meanwhile, the safeguarding issues at Soul Survivor Watford extend beyond Robinson.
The church has been embroiled in a scandal involving its former vicar, Rev Canon Mike Pilavachi, who was suspended pending an investigation into allegations of misconduct.
Reports indicate that Pilavachi was accused of running a ‘cult’ environment, encouraging young men aged approximately 18 to 21 to engage in full-body oil massages on his bed, as well as participating in vigorous wrestling matches that could last up to 20 minutes.
These allegations, which have been described as part of a pattern of “toxic behaviour,” have been circulating within the church community for years, with some claiming that such conduct was an “open secret.” Further complicating the situation, more than 100 individuals have come forward with accusations of spiritual, psychological, and emotional abuse against Pilavachi, with complaints dating back to the 1980s and continuing to the present day.
The church’s safeguarding investigation is being conducted by the Church of England’s National Safeguarding Team (NST) and the Diocese of St Albans.
Recently, it was reported that two pastors, including Rev Andy Croft and Ali Martin, who temporarily led Soul Survivor Watford following Pilavachi’s suspension, have also been suspended.
The suspensions stem from their alleged failure to act on reports of abuse prior to the NST investigation.
In response to the crisis, the church has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding and the importance of protecting its congregation.
A statement from the church urged members to contact church authorities if approached by the media and reaffirmed their dedication to ensuring a safe environment for both adults and children.
The church also expressed its concern for those who may have suffered harm and called for prayers for all involved.
Rev Canon Mike Pilavachi, who founded Soul Survivor Watford and its associated summer festivals, was recognized nationally for his contributions to evangelism and youth work, receiving an award from the Archbishop of Canterbury in 2020 and an MBE in the same year.
Despite these accolades, the ongoing allegations threaten to tarnish his legacy and raise serious questions about safeguarding within the church community.
As investigations continue, authorities and church officials are urging anyone with information or who has been affected by these allegations to come forward.
The case of Matt Robinson remains a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and safeguarding in religious organizations, especially those working with vulnerable young people in Watford and beyond.
