At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead safeguarding initiatives and ensure a safe environment for all paddlers.
- Company: Paddle UK, the governing body for Paddlesports, promoting inclusivity and safety.
- Benefits: 25 days annual leave, flexible dress code, free parking, and employee benefits platform.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team dedicated to creating a positive sporting environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on safeguarding in sports and drive meaningful change.
- Qualifications: Experience in strategic safeguarding roles and strong case management skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 48000 € per year.
Location: Nottingham – National Water Sports Centre, Holme Pierrepont
Hours: Full-time (37 hours per week)
Salary: £45,000 - £48,000
Closing date: 31 May 2026
Ensure every paddler can realise their potential in a safe, inclusive, and protected environment.
Paddle UK is seeking a strategic Safeguarding Manager to lead the embedding of safeguarding excellence across our organisation, clubs, and performance programmes. As a senior member of the Governance team, you will act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), taking lead accountability for the delivery of #SaferTogether - our core strategy for safeguarding, safety, welfare, and performance wellbeing. This is a high-impact role requiring a balance of strategic vision and technical expertise. You will oversee robust case management, lead the Safeguarding Case Manager, and provide expert assurance to the Board and relevant sub-committees that our safeguarding culture is effective, best-practice, and legally compliant.
Key Responsibilities- Strategic Delivery: Lead the #SaferTogether strategy, establishing annual plans to embed a culture of safeguarding and wellbeing across the sport.
- Expert Advice: Act as the DSL, providing training, support, and guidance to staff, clubs, and volunteers to ensure best practice in reporting and prevention.
- Case Management: Oversee the Safeguarding Case Manager to ensure all cases and disclosure checks are handled efficiently and in line with statutory standards.
- Performance Excellence: Act as the safeguarding lead for the World Class Programme, developing tailored training and support for elite coaches and athletes.
- Policy & Compliance: Maintain robust policies and manage the annual CPSU Framework assessment process to ensure Paddle UK meets all legislative requirements.
- Governance Representation: Represent the organisation on the Safeguarding Case Management Group and work collaboratively with Home Nation partners.
This is a pivotal role for an expert looking to drive a culture of safety and integrity across a national sporting landscape. You will join a team that values:
- Meaningful Change: A culture that encourages curiosity and the challenging of established thinking to achieve world-leading outcomes.
- Collaborative Success: Direct influence over a dedicated network of practitioners, building psychological safety and a positive environment for all.
- Strategic Impact: The opportunity to lead the #SaferTogether strategy, providing the stability and insight required to drive the sport forward at all levels.
You will be a resilient leader with a deep understanding of safeguarding legislation and protocols. We are looking for:
- Strategic Leadership: Proven experience in a strategic safeguarding role, ideally within a sport governing body.
- Case Management Expertise: A thorough understanding of referral protocols and the responsibilities of statutory agencies.
- Influencing Skills: The ability to form excellent working relationships and exert influence to effect positive change.
Paddle UK is the governing body for Paddlesports. We have had many advances in our sport and paddling now covers a wide range of interests and passions as a sport and a leisure activity for all. We want to support and provide opportunities for everyone to enjoy and realise their potential within all aspects of paddling regardless of their age, background or ability.
We recognise the contribution our employees make and think these benefits reflect our appreciation: 25 days annual leave, plus bank holidays, Dress for your day (jeans acceptable), Free onsite parking and bike storage, Company pension scheme, Employee benefits platform (including Bike to Work, Health and Wellbeing and discounts).
To find out more about Paddle UK, our benefits, culture and recruitment process please visit our Careers Centre.
Safeguarding Manager in Nottingham employer: British Canoeing
Paddle UK is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at the National Water Sports Centre in Nottingham, where you can make a meaningful impact on safeguarding within the sport. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, we provide generous benefits such as 25 days of annual leave, flexible dress codes, and opportunities for professional growth through strategic leadership roles. Join us to be part of a collaborative culture that values curiosity and innovation, driving positive change across the paddlesport community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Safeguarding Manager in Nottingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the paddlesport community or related fields. Attend events, join online forums, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Paddle UK's culture and values. Understand their #SaferTogether strategy and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your strategic leadership and case management expertise can drive safeguarding excellence. Keep it concise and impactful – you want to leave them wanting to know more about you!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Paddle UK team.
We think you need these skills to ace Safeguarding Manager in Nottingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in safeguarding and leadership. We want to see how your skills align with our #SaferTogether strategy!
Showcase Your Expertise:Don’t hold back on sharing your knowledge of safeguarding legislation and case management. We’re looking for someone who can bring their expertise to the table, so let us know what you’ve got!
Be Authentic:We value genuine passion and commitment to safeguarding. Share your personal experiences and motivations for wanting to join Paddle UK, as this will help us connect with you on a deeper level.
Apply Through Our Website:For a smooth application process, make sure to apply directly through our Careers Centre. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates like you!
How to prepare for a job interview at British Canoeing
✨Know Your Safeguarding Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest safeguarding legislation and protocols. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the basics, but that you truly understand the nuances of the role.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision
Prepare to talk about how you would lead the #SaferTogether strategy. Think about specific examples from your past experience where you've successfully implemented strategic initiatives in safeguarding or similar areas.
✨Demonstrate Your Case Management Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience with case management. Highlight any relevant situations where you’ve overseen cases or worked with statutory agencies, and explain how you ensured compliance and best practices were followed.
✨Build Rapport with the Interviewers
Remember, this role is all about collaboration. Use the interview as an opportunity to build a connection with your interviewers. Ask insightful questions about their current safeguarding culture and express your enthusiasm for working together to drive positive change.
