The Right Reverend Bev Mason, Bishop of Warrington, has identified herself as one of the women who accused the Bishop of Liverpool, Dr. John Perumbalath, of sexual misconduct.

In an open letter, Bishop Mason criticized the Church of England for its inadequate handling of the allegations, which she believes were not addressed 'properly and satisfactorily.' Dr. Perumbalath had previously stepped down following allegations of sexual misconduct, including accusations from two women.

One woman claimed he kissed her without consent and groped her in Chelmsford, Essex, when he served as Bishop of Bradwell.

Another woman, who was also featured in a Channel 4 News investigation, accused him of sexual harassment.

Although Bishop Perumbalath denied the allegations, he resigned to prevent becoming a 'distraction.'Bishop Mason confirmed she was the second complainant, but stated she had distanced herself from the media coverage of the case since the allegations were made public.

She revealed that she had raised concerns about the handling of the complaint involving Dr. Perumbalath, as well as her own allegations, to the Church's National Safeguarding Team.

Mason emphasized the importance of ensuring a fair ecclesiastical judicial process, stating that 'a bishop cannot be above the law.'The Essex police investigation into one of the allegations concluded no further action was necessary, and the Church of England's internal investigation also found no case to answer.

However, church leaders, including Julie Conalty, Bishop of Birkenhead, have urged Dr. Perumbalath to step down, with Conalty calling the situation 'untenable.' Conalty further questioned whether the Church's complaint processes were sufficiently trauma-informed and whether they effectively served both victims and the accused.

The Church of England has yet to provide further comment on the matter.