Fame, Fortune & Fear: Scientology’s Soft Power Agenda (Talk)

Hear from survivors, experts and local residents on what life is really like behind closed doors at the Church of Scientology's UK headquarters and how they plan to influence East Grinstead.

The Church of Scientology have had a significant presence in the quiet countryside town of East Grinstead, Sussex since L. Ron Hubbard acquired Saint Hill Manor in 1959. For a few brief years, the property served as Scientology’s international headquarters – and to this day stands as an important part of the church’s international management hierarchy.

Over recent years we have seen mounting pressure from residents and the local authority amidst growing controversy around the church’s annual IAS event, which takes place at Saint Hill every October. With the internet providing a platform for former members to share their stories, stories continue to emerge that paint a dark picture of what life is like behind closed doors.

Join us on June 6th, 2026 to hear from survivors, residents and experts on why Scientology are continuing to expand their reach and solidify their influence over East Grinstead.

This isn't an attack on Scientology's beliefs, but a chance to hear first-hand accounts of what life is like at Saint Hill and how policy written by L. Ron Hubbard over 50 years ago dictates how the Church must engage with the local community. 

This is a community event, with residents also invited to ask questions about the recent protests that have taken place outside Scientology's headquarters.

Confirmed speakers include:

Dr. Alexandra Stein PhD, cult expert and Chair of the Family Survival Trust (https://thefamilysurvivaltrust.org/)

Alexander Barnes-Ross, former Scientologist

Danielle Chamberlin, who grew up at Saint Hill and served L. Ron Hubbard aboard the Flagship Apollo

Bonnie Woods, who won a landmark High Court legal battle after Scientology engaged in a dafamatory propaganda campaign against her throughout East Grinstead

Zoe Hancock, recruited into Scientology as a teenager and tasked with single-handedly flattening the field used as a car park at Saint Hill's annual IAS event with a pickaxe

Amir Essalhi, former executive who left in February 2026

Stephen Jones, local resident and former staff member at Saint Hill

Pete Griffiths, former Scientologist who headed up a Mission in Cumbria

This event will be taking place in East Grinstead, with venue details to be announced in due course.

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Host or Publisher Alexander Barnes-Ross