At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead safeguarding initiatives and ensure a safe environment for all at Canterbury Cathedral.
- Company: Canterbury Cathedral, a historic and inclusive community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in safeguarding vulnerable individuals within a prestigious institution.
- Qualifications: Significant safeguarding experience and strong communication skills required.
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)
- 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.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted using the Cathedral's official application form in line with Safer Recruitment requirements. CVs submitted without a completed application form will not be accepted.
Interview Information
Interviews will take place in person on 22nd June 2026 at Canterbury Cathedral.
Head of Safeguarding (Cathedral Safeguarding Officer) employer: Canterbury Cathedral
Canterbury Cathedral is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead safeguarding initiatives within a historic and revered institution. With a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, the Cathedral fosters a supportive work culture that values professional integrity and personal growth. Employees benefit from collaborative relationships with senior leadership and the chance to make a meaningful impact in safeguarding vulnerable individuals within the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Safeguarding (Cathedral Safeguarding Officer)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the safeguarding field, especially those who have experience with church or faith-based settings. A friendly chat can lead to valuable insights and even potential referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Canterbury Cathedral's safeguarding policies and recent initiatives. Show us that you’re not just familiar with the role but genuinely passionate about creating a safe environment for everyone involved.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions related to safeguarding. Think about how you would handle complex casework or influence stakeholders. We want to see your thought process and how you tackle challenges!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application is seen and considered. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at Canterbury Cathedral.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Safeguarding (Cathedral Safeguarding Officer)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing your application, take a good look at the job description. Make sure you understand what they're looking for in terms of experience and skills. This will help you tailor your application to show how you fit the bill.
Showcase Your Experience:When filling out the application form, highlight your relevant safeguarding experience. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've handled complex cases or developed policies in the past. We want to see your expertise shine through!
Be Authentic:Let your personality come through in your application. We’re looking for someone who aligns with our values, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for safeguarding and how it drives your work. Authenticity goes a long way!
Submit Through Our Website:Make sure to apply using the Cathedral's official application form on our website. Remember, CVs alone won’t cut it, so complete that form to ensure your application is considered. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Canterbury Cathedral
✨Know Your Safeguarding Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the Church of England safeguarding policies and national standards. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the role but also genuinely committed to safeguarding.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led safeguarding initiatives or influenced change in previous roles. This is a leadership position, so demonstrating your ability to inspire and guide others will be key.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions about managing safeguarding concerns. Think through potential situations you might encounter and how you'd handle them, showcasing your analytical and decision-making skills.
✨Connect with Their Values
Research Canterbury Cathedral's values and mission. During the interview, relate your personal values and experiences to theirs, showing that you're not just a fit for the role but also for their community.
