Missionary group accused of spiritual abuse

The world's biggest youth Christian missionary organisation is facing allegations of spiritual abuse and controlling behaviour from young people who say they were left "traumatised".

- Shanti Das

An Observer investigation has revealed evidence of safeguarding failings within Youth With a Mission (YWAM), a global movement that trains young Christians to spread the gospel. A spokesperson for YWAM said the organisation was "heartbroken" by the claims and was "deeply committed to the safety and wellbeing" of everyone in its care.

The allegations span two decades and include claims that young missionaries were publicly shamed, subjected to rituals to "cure" their homosexuality, and told that leaving was against God's will.

Young British adults who signed up for training schools and overseas mission trips - many during their gap years - described regular confession sessions where they were pressured to admit their "sins" in a group.