At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead safeguarding initiatives and ensure a safe environment for all at Canterbury Cathedral.
- Company: Canterbury Cathedral, a historic and iconic site in the heart of England.
- Benefits: Join a supportive community with a commitment to safeguarding and professional integrity.
- Other info: Opportunity to work collaboratively with diverse teams and promote inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in safeguarding vulnerable individuals within a prestigious institution.
- Qualifications: Significant safeguarding experience and strong knowledge of relevant legislation required.
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.
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
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. Completed applications should be returned by the closing date specified in the recruitment pack.
Interview Information
Interviews will take place in person on 22nd June 2026 at Canterbury Cathedral.
Our recruiting approach
We reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications. We welcome applications from underrepresented groups. Canterbury Cathedral is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All post holders and volunteers are expected to share this commitment.
At this time, Canterbury Cathedral is unable to provide visa sponsorship. Applicants must already hold the right to work in the UK.
Head of Safeguarding (CSO) 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 Canterbury.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Safeguarding (CSO)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in safeguarding or related fields. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about the role and even a referral, which can give you a leg up in the application process.
✨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 also genuinely interested in how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those around safeguarding challenges. We want to see your thought process and how you handle complex situations, so be ready to share real-life examples.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can keep you fresh in their minds and show your enthusiasm for the position. Plus, it’s a great way to reiterate your commitment to safeguarding.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Safeguarding (CSO)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. Make sure you understand what Canterbury Cathedral is looking for in the Head of Safeguarding role. This will help you tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills.
Use the Official Application Form:Remember, we need you to use the Cathedral's official application form. CVs alone won't cut it! Fill out the form completely and make sure it aligns with the requirements outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Experience:When filling out the application, be sure to showcase your significant safeguarding experience. Use specific examples that demonstrate your knowledge of safeguarding legislation and your ability to manage complex casework. We want to see how you can bring your expertise to our team!
Submit Before the Deadline:Don’t leave it until the last minute! Make sure you submit your completed application by the closing date specified in the recruitment pack. We’re excited to hear from you, so get your application in early through our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at Canterbury Cathedral
✨Know Your Safeguarding Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest safeguarding legislation and Church of England policies. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the basics, but that you’re genuinely passionate about creating a safe environment.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led safeguarding initiatives in the past. Think about times when you influenced change or built strong relationships with stakeholders. This role is all about leadership, so demonstrating your experience here is key.
✨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 help you convey your analytical abilities and your trauma-informed approach effectively.
✨Align with Their Values
Research Canterbury Cathedral’s commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Be prepared to discuss how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to fostering an inclusive environment within the Cathedral community.
