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 England.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in a supportive workplace.
- Why this job: Join a values-led team and shape safeguarding practices in a unique environment.
- 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.
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) in Kent employer: Canterbury Cathedral
Canterbury Cathedral is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead safeguarding initiatives within one of England's most historic and revered institutions. 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 working relationships with senior leadership and the chance to make a meaningful impact in a safe and welcoming environment for all members of the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Safeguarding (CSO) in Kent
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the safeguarding field, especially those who might have insights into Canterbury Cathedral. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into safeguarding policies and practices relevant to the Church of England. Show us you’re not just familiar with the basics but also passionate about creating a safe environment for everyone.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After your interview, drop a quick thank-you note to express your appreciation. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Canterbury Cathedral team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Safeguarding (CSO) in Kent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing, take a good look at the job description. We want to see how your experience aligns with the role of Head of Safeguarding. Highlight key responsibilities and think about how your background fits in.
Use the Official Application Form:Make sure to fill out the Cathedral's official application form. We can't accept CVs without it, so don’t skip this step! It’s your chance to showcase your skills and experiences in a structured way.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-organised thoughts and straightforward language. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to safeguarding – we want to understand your message easily!
Show Your Passion for Safeguarding:Let your passion for safeguarding shine through in your application. Share specific examples of your experience and how they relate to the values of Canterbury Cathedral. We’re looking for someone who truly cares about creating a safe environment.
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 truly understand the complexities involved in safeguarding within a church setting.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led safeguarding initiatives or managed complex casework in the past. Highlight your ability to influence and build relationships with various stakeholders, as this role requires strong collaboration with senior leadership and committees.
✨Demonstrate Your Compassionate Approach
Be ready to discuss how you apply a trauma-informed and survivor-focused approach in your work. Share specific instances where you've prioritised the welfare of vulnerable individuals, as this aligns with the Cathedral's commitment to safeguarding.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the Cathedral's current safeguarding practices and future goals. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge how well your values align with theirs, which is crucial for a leadership position like this.
