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.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
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) in Kent 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 employee growth, inclusivity, and professional integrity, the Cathedral fosters a supportive work culture that values collaboration and accountability. The role of Head of Safeguarding not only allows for meaningful impact on the community but also provides access to ongoing training and development in a vibrant environment steeped in tradition.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Safeguarding (Cathedral Safeguarding Officer) in Kent
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the safeguarding field, especially those connected to Canterbury Cathedral. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info on the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the Cathedral's safeguarding policies and recent initiatives. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about their mission and values.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions related to safeguarding. We want to see how you handle complex casework and your approach to building relationships within a diverse community.
✨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 you’re serious about joining our team at Canterbury Cathedral.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Safeguarding (Cathedral Safeguarding Officer) in Kent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing, take a good look at the job description. Make sure you understand what they're looking for in a Head of Safeguarding. 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. It's not just a formality; it helps us ensure that all candidates are assessed fairly. So, don’t skip this step and make sure to fill it out completely!
Showcase Your Experience:When you're filling out the application, be sure to showcase your safeguarding experience. Use specific examples from your past roles to demonstrate how you've managed complex safeguarding cases and influenced policy. We want to see your expertise shine through!
Be Authentic and Reflective:Let your personality come through in your application. Share your passion for safeguarding and how it aligns with our values at Canterbury Cathedral. A genuine approach can really set you apart from other candidates, so don’t hold back!
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 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. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, highlighting your ability to influence and build relationships at all levels.
✨Emphasise Your Collaborative Spirit
This role involves working closely with various teams and committees. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with different stakeholders in previous roles, and how you can bring that experience to Canterbury Cathedral.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the Cathedral's current safeguarding practices and future goals. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
