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- Tasks: Lead the Diocesan Safeguarding Steering Group and ensure effective safeguarding practices.
- Company: The Diocese of Bristol, committed to safety and trust in church communities.
- Benefits: Honorarium of £4,000 per annum plus expenses for 10-12 days of work.
- Other info: Join a mission-driven organisation with a focus on continuous improvement and safety.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in safeguarding and support community trust across the Diocese.
- Qualifications: Significant safeguarding experience and strong leadership skills required.
The Diocese of Bristol is committed to ensuring that every church community from Bristol to Swindon is a place of welcome, safety and trust. We are seeking an experienced safeguarding professional to serve as Independent Chair of the Diocesan Safeguarding Steering Group (DSSG)—a vital role that strengthens our safeguarding culture and supports best practice across the Diocese.
As Independent Chair, you will provide strong, objective leadership to the DSSG. The Group offers independent oversight, advice, and scrutiny in relation to safeguarding policies, procedures, and practice. Working closely with the Diocesan Safeguarding Team, the Bishop of Bristol and senior clergy, you will help ensure that safeguarding standards are continually monitored, improved and embedded. The role receives an honorarium of £4,000 per annum and expenses (10-12 days per annum).
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and facilitate the DSSG, ensuring effective governance, strategic focus and high-quality scrutiny
- Provide independent advice and assurance to senior diocesan leadership
- Support accountability and transparency in safeguarding practice
- Build strong relationships with the Diocesan Safeguarding Team and other key stakeholders
- Champion continuous improvement and a culture of safety across the Diocese
About You
We are seeking an individual who can bring independence, credibility and clarity of thought. You will have:
- Significant professional safeguarding experience at a senior level within a statutory, voluntary, or judicial agency
- Strong strategic leadership capability and experience of contributing to organisational governance
- A robust understanding of the current safeguarding legislative and regulatory framework
- The ability to influence, engage and challenge constructively with senior leaders
- Excellent communication skills and confidence in providing advice and assurance
You should also be able to demonstrate empathy with the mission and ethos of the Church of England and be supportive of the values of the Diocese of Bristol.
Independent Chair of the Diocesan Safeguarding Steering Group in Bristol employer: Diocese of Bristol
Contact Detail:
Diocese of Bristol Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Independent Chair of the Diocesan Safeguarding Steering Group in Bristol
✨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 a lead or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Diocese of Bristol and its safeguarding policies. Show us that you understand their mission and values, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be clear about what you bring to the table as an Independent Chair. Highlight your leadership skills and safeguarding experience, and don’t shy away from discussing how you can champion a culture of safety.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about the role and keen to be part of the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Independent Chair of the Diocesan Safeguarding Steering Group in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Safeguarding: When writing your application, let us see your genuine passion for safeguarding. Share experiences that highlight your commitment to creating safe environments, as this will resonate with our mission at the Diocese of Bristol.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application specifically for the Independent Chair role. Use the job description as a guide and align your skills and experiences with the key responsibilities and requirements we’ve outlined.
Be Clear and Concise: We appreciate clarity! Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points where necessary to make it easy for us to see your qualifications and experiences at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this vital role in our safeguarding efforts.
How to prepare for a job interview at Diocese of Bristol
✨Know Your Safeguarding Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the current safeguarding legislative and regulatory framework. Being able to discuss recent changes or challenges in safeguarding will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also passionate about the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've provided strong leadership in previous roles. Think about times when you've facilitated discussions, influenced decisions, or improved practices. This will help demonstrate your strategic capability and governance experience.
✨Build Relationships Before You Even Start
Research the Diocesan Safeguarding Team and key stakeholders. Understanding their roles and how they interact will allow you to speak confidently about how you can build strong relationships and support accountability within the group.
✨Communicate with Confidence
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Since you'll be providing advice and assurance to senior leaders, being able to communicate effectively is crucial. Consider doing mock interviews to refine your delivery.