At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead safeguarding initiatives and ensure a safe environment for all at Canterbury Cathedral.
- Company: Join the historic Canterbury Cathedral, a symbol of faith and community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Embrace a diverse and inclusive workplace committed to equality.
- Why this job: Be a key player in safeguarding vulnerable individuals within a prestigious institution.
- Qualifications: Significant safeguarding experience and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
About Canterbury Cathedral
Canterbury Cathedral is the cathedral of the Archbishop of Canterbury, the leader of the Church of England and symbolic leader of the worldwide Anglican Communion. Located in Canterbury, Kent, it is one of the oldest Christian structures in England and forms part of a World Heritage Site.
About the Head of Safeguarding (CSO) Role
Canterbury Cathedral is seeking an experienced and values‑led safeguarding professional to join the Cathedral. This is a significant leadership role responsible for ensuring the Cathedral community provides a safe, welcoming and professionally accountable environment for children, young people, vulnerable adults, staff and volunteers. Working closely with the Canon Missioner, Senior Leadership Team, Chapter and Cathedral Safeguarding Committee, the successful candidate will lead the development and embedding of safeguarding culture, policy, practice and assurance across the Cathedral's diverse and complex operational environment. The postholder will act as the Cathedral's professional safeguarding lead and first point of contact for safeguarding concerns, ensuring practice is aligned with:
- Church of England safeguarding policy
- Promoting a Safer Church
- National Safeguarding Standards
- Guidance issued by the Church of England National Safeguarding Team
- House of Bishops Practice Guidance and Codes of Practice
Key Responsibilities as Head of Safeguarding (CSO)
The Head of Safeguarding (CSO) will:
- Lead and promote a culture of safeguarding vigilance, accountability and shared responsibility
- Provide professional safeguarding advice and manage safeguarding concerns and casework in line with the Diocesan MOU.
- Develop, implement and review safeguarding policies and procedures
- Lead safeguarding audits, assurance activity and action planning
- Produce high-quality safeguarding reports for Chapter and Safeguarding Committee
- Oversee safeguarding training, DBS compliance and safer recruitment processes
- Work collaboratively with diocesan, statutory and national safeguarding partners
- Ensure safeguarding is embedded within strategic planning and operational decision‑making
- Provide professional challenge and escalation where safeguarding concerns arise
About You
We are looking for an individual who can demonstrate:
- Significant safeguarding experience within a statutory, education, health, probation, police, social care or equivalent environment
- Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation, policy and best practice
- Experience managing complex safeguarding casework and risk management processes
- The ability to influence, challenge and build strong professional relationships at all levels within the Cathedral.
- Excellent communication, analytical and organisational skills
- A compassionate, trauma‑informed and survivor‑focused approach
- Professional integrity, resilience and sound judgement
- An understanding of safeguarding within complex organisations
- Experience of working with Senior Leadership Teams and Boards/Committee Members.
A relevant professional qualification and/or current professional registration is essential where applicable. Experience of working within church or faith‑based settings would be advantageous but is not essential.
Safeguarding Commitment
Canterbury Cathedral is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. This post is subject to safer recruitment processes, including:
- Enhanced DBS check
- Satisfactory references
- Right to work checks
- Completion of an application form in line with Church of England Safer Recruitment Guidance 2026
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The Cathedral is committed to creating a positive, inclusive and respectful environment where everyone can flourish. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are committed to equality of opportunity for all. We welcome applications from underrepresented groups.
Head of Safeguarding (Cathedral Safeguarding Officer) in Canterbury employer: Canterbury Cathedral
Canterbury Cathedral is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in a historic and culturally significant environment. With a strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting welfare, the Cathedral fosters a supportive and inclusive work culture that values professional integrity and personal growth. Employees benefit from collaborative leadership, comprehensive training, and the chance to make a meaningful impact within the community, all while being part of a World Heritage Site in the heart of Kent.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Safeguarding (Cathedral Safeguarding Officer) in Canterbury
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the safeguarding field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research Canterbury Cathedral, its safeguarding policies, and recent developments in the field. This will help you show off your knowledge and passion during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend or mentor to do mock interviews with you. This will help you refine your answers and boost your confidence before the big day.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Safeguarding (Cathedral Safeguarding Officer) in Canterbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience in safeguarding. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t just list your qualifications; demonstrate how your skills align with the role. Share specific examples of your past work in safeguarding and how it relates to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your writing is easy to read. This will help us see your key points quickly.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Canterbury Cathedral
✨Know Your Safeguarding Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest Church of England safeguarding policies and national standards. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the basics, but that you’re genuinely invested in creating a safe environment.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led safeguarding initiatives or managed complex casework in the past. Think about times when you influenced change or built strong relationships with stakeholders. This role is all about leadership, so make sure you highlight your experience!
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked how you would handle specific safeguarding scenarios. Practise articulating your thought process and decision-making skills. This will demonstrate your analytical abilities and your trauma-informed approach to safeguarding.
✨Emphasise Your Collaborative Spirit
This role involves working closely with various teams and committees. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous roles. Highlight your communication skills and your ability to foster a culture of shared responsibility.
