The University of Oxford community has been rocked by revelations surrounding a senior Catholic chaplain, who has resigned following allegations of serious misconduct and grooming made by a student.
The case has sparked conversations about safeguarding and trust within university chaplaincies.
Father Damian Howard Steps Down Amid Allegations
Father Damian Howard, appointed in 2023 as the Senior Chaplain at the Oxford University Catholic Chaplaincy (OUCC), has left his role after a student came forward with claims of inappropriate sexual behaviour.
The allegations include accusations that Howard initiated sexual contact while the student was under the influence of alcohol and encouraged him to sleep in his bed while removing clothing.
The student described the priest as using his position of trust to manipulate and control him, warning him not to disclose the incidents, claiming it would “ruin” him if anyone found out.
Investigation Confirms Misconduct
Following a thorough inquiry by the Jesuits in Britain, the claims of inappropriate behaviour were substantiated.
Howard was asked to resign and has been removed from ministry.
A spokesperson for the Jesuits emphasized that complaints are treated with “care and diligence” and that procedures are designed to protect everyone involved while ensuring fairness.
The investigation included interviews with relevant parties and a careful review of documented interactions.
The Jesuits confirmed that they are awaiting recommendations from an independent review conducted by the Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (CCSA).
Background on Howard’s Career
Howard previously served as Provincial Superior of Jesuits in Britain, the organisation’s highest leadership role, for six years.
During that time, he issued a personal apology to a victim of Peter Orr, a Jesuit priest accused of sexually abusing boys between the 1960s and 2000s.
After moving to the OUCC, Howard reportedly first met the student in 2023 and gradually developed a relationship that included day trips and dinners.
The student alleges that inappropriate behaviour began in late 2024 and continued into 2025, including intimate physical contact and emotional manipulation.
Allegations Detail a Pattern of Control
The student described a pattern in which Howard used his role as a chaplain to exercise control over his personal life, showing jealousy when the student engaged in commitments outside the chaplaincy.
The student stated:
“He witnessed the implosion of my faith, my life, and my emotional state; rather than offering the kind of disinterested support a Chaplain would, he used me as a crutch for his loneliness.”
According to the complaint, the alleged misconduct occurred while the student was particularly vulnerable, including during periods of mental health struggles.
The student emphasized that he never initiated intimacy nor had any romantic feelings toward Howard.
Actions Taken by Oxford and Jesuits
Howard’s resignation was formally requested in August, though neither the OUCC nor Jesuits in Britain publicly announced the decision at the time.
The Jesuits clarified that all cases are assessed independently where necessary, and that external reviews are conducted to ensure accountability.
In addition to leaving the chaplaincy, Howard has had his Honorary Fellowship at Campion Hall revoked.
Campion Hall, one of Oxford’s Permanent Private Halls, had not assigned him any teaching or pastoral duties in that capacity.
Independent Review Underway
Jesuit authorities told the student in October that evidence of “grooming” could not be conclusively proven, but an independent investigation by the CCSA is ongoing to review how the complaint was handled.
Both the OUCC and the Jesuits have expressed commitment to transparency, accountability, and the wellbeing of all parties involved.
Looking Ahead
The case raises broader questions about safeguarding in university chaplaincies and the responsibilities of clergy working with vulnerable students.
As the independent review continues, attention is focused on ensuring that such complaints are handled thoroughly and with integrity, and that institutions like Oxford remain safe spaces for students seeking pastoral support.
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