Undercover at the Church of Scientology

Undercover at the Church of Scientology

Author: The Times August 13, 2026 Duration: 38:40

A Scientology whistleblower told Times journalist Tom Ball that the church’s Edinburgh branch had children as young as thirteen working there during school hours. The church denied the allegation. Tom went undercover to investigate. 


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Guest: Tom Ball, news reporter, The Times

Host: Manveen Rana

Producer: Sophie McNulty

We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com


Read more: Revealed: how Scientology recruits children as 'staff'

Further listening: Undercover at Britain’s ‘conspiracy school’

Clips: Apostate Alex - YouTube.

Photo: Ian Rutherford for The Times. 

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Each morning, The Story arrives with a clear purpose: to move beyond the headlines and explore the forces and people shaping our world. Guided by the experienced reporting of Manveen Rana and Luke Jones, this daily podcast from The Times delves into the most significant political developments and news events with a level of depth and context that only their global network of journalists can provide. You’ll hear more than just summaries; you’ll get a nuanced understanding of why a story matters, who it impacts, and what might happen next. The analysis is sharp and the storytelling is compelling, designed to fit into your morning routine seven days a week. It’s a direct line to the frontline reporting and editorial expertise of one of the world’s most respected news organizations. This consistent, in-depth approach makes the podcast a reliable resource for anyone looking to truly comprehend the day’s events. Supported by readers of The Times and The Sunday Times, the production maintains a commitment to journalistic integrity and thorough exploration, ensuring every episode provides substance and clarity.
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