Cathedral Safeguarding Officer and Diocesan Safeguarding Practitioner
About the Role
Are you a dedicated safeguarding professional who can make a meaningful impact across two historic and historic institutions?
The Diocese of Durham and Durham Cathedral are seeking a collaborative, experienced practitioner to foster, embed, and champion a robust culture of safeguarding. Splitting your focus dynamically (envisaged as 60% Cathedral and 40% Diocese), you will be a visible, reassuring presence, providing expert advice, managing complex casework, and proactively supporting staff, clergy, and volunteers in upholding the highest safeguarding standards.
What We Are Looking For
- A proven track record in professional safeguarding practice and casework management.
- A deep understanding of safeguarding legislation, quality assurance, and risk assessments.
- An empathetic, trauma-informed approach to working with victims and survivors.
- Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to deliver training and engage confidently with statutory authorities, clergy, and volunteers.
- Flexibility to adapt to changing weekly priorities and work occasional weekends/evenings.
- Commitment to regular, independent professional supervision provided by the Regional Safeguarding Lead for the North East.
What We Offer
- Salary: Grade 5, Point 1 £35,461 per annum starting salary, plus discretionary annual performance-related increments under our Reward & Recognition scheme
- Pension: 10% employer contribution, plus up to an additional 5% matching scheme
- Hours: 35 hours per week, typically Monday–Friday, with flexibility required for occasional Sunday and evening service presence
- Location: Dual-based at Cuthbert House, Durham and Durham Cathedral Office, with agreed hybrid homeworking flexibility
- Reporting to: Diocesan Safeguarding Officer (Line Manager) and working collaboratively with the Chapter Lead for Safeguarding at Durham Cathedral
For further information or an informal chat please reach out to Beth Miller, Diocesan Safeguarding Officer: Mob: 07968 034075
Closing date: 12th August 2026
Interviews: 7th September 2026
Cathedral Safeguarding Officer and Diocesan Safeguarding Practitioner in North East employer: Diocese of Durham
Joining the Diocese of Durham and Durham Cathedral as a Cathedral Safeguarding Officer and Diocesan Safeguarding Practitioner offers you the chance to work in a supportive and collaborative environment dedicated to safeguarding excellence. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will benefit from regular professional supervision and opportunities for training, all while being part of two historic institutions that value your contributions to community safety and well-being. Enjoy a competitive salary, generous pension contributions, and the flexibility of hybrid working arrangements, making this role not just a job, but a meaningful career path.
