Chair of Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Panel

Chair of Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Panel (DSAP)

Model Role Description and Person Specification

Background

The strategic framework for the diocese is established in our Jesus Centered, Kingdon Seeking strategy which sets out the priorities for the diocese. Through these commitments, we plan for the diocese to grow in depth, impact and number. All work to fulfil those commitments is driven and informed by our diocesan values of being courageous, collaborative, generous, resourceful and pioneering. Those values shape how we approach our work both collectively and as individuals.

Role Description for the DSAP Chair

ROLE TITLE: Independent Chair of the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Panel

RESPONSIBLE TO: Portsmouth Diocesan Board of Finance

KEY RELATIONSHIPS: Diocesan Safeguarding Officer (DSO), the Bishop of Portsmouth, and the Diocesan Secretary

DURATION: Three-year fixed term with potential for renewal

Introduction to the Role: We are currently looking to engage an Independent Chair for the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Panel. This will include the in-person chairing of four DSAP Meetings and attending other committee / governance meetings, such as the annual Audit and Risk Meeting, to support the presentation of the Safeguarding Annual Report. Other work will include providing support to the DSO. The position attracts remuneration of £300 per day for a maximum of 12 days per year. The Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Panel (DSAP) brings together expertise, knowledge and experience from Diocesan officers, advisory and pastoral staff together with Statutory Local Government, Police and Probation Services with support from an Independent Chair. The Panel will seek to ensure the development of a high-performing safeguarding system within the Portsmouth Diocese and provide assurance, advice and guidance to the Bishop, archdeacons, directors and officers. We are committed to the development of Safeguarding practice across the Diocese to ensure the service is operating effectively and in line with recognised best practice. The role of Independent Chair of the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Panel (DSAP) is crucial to this ongoing development, enabling strong quality assurance and risk management. The role will also ensure that support structures in place across the Diocese for survivors are also prioritised.

Role Profile

• To provide effective leadership to the DSAP, including agreeing the agenda, in liaison with the Diocesan Safeguarding Officer (DSO) agreeing minutes, chairing the meetings and monitoring the follow-up actions.

• To ensure the DSAP oversees and agrees an annual report on Safeguarding in the Diocese to the Bishop’s Council and the submission of relevant National returns from the Diocese.

• To work with the DSO and senior staff to ensure the group has a strategic overview of safeguarding practice across the Diocese in line with the House of Bishops' policy and practice guidance.

• Work with the DSAP members to provide high-quality assurance and to support Diocesan risk management processes.

• To work with the DSO and senior leadership team to ensure that the Diocesan Safeguarding Team is adequately resourced; that there is sufficient capacity and diversity of skills set and experience/background of members. To provide high-level support to recruitment and succession planning.

• To ensure that the group considers the needs of victims/survivors and those affected by abuse in consultation with National Church support structures. Provide insight and guidance on the ongoing development of policy and process on survivor support to ensure it is in line with best practice.

• To maintain professional relationships with the HR Manager and Diocesan Secretary to ensure that the Diocesan Safeguarding team are well supported to enable them to operate effectively in line with best practice standards within the sector, identifying opportunities for development and service improvement.

• To provide independent professional guidance as necessary to the DSO/Diocesan Secretary/Diocesan Bishop or members of the group outside of formal supervisory and management arrangements.

• To advise where necessary the Diocesan Bishop/DSO/senior leadership team of specific concerns/issues. Where appropriate, to raise and report any concerns/issues as part of whistle blowing arrangements.

• To manage complaints about safeguarding policies and procedures and lead on formal complaints against the DSO (and Cathedral Safeguarding Adviser), Deputy and Assistant DSO’s.

• To engage in the chairs’ national and regional network meetings, ensuring that best practice is shared with the Diocese. Also, engage with policy reviews as requested by the Diocese and National Church.

• To ensure the DSAP discharges its role and functions in line with the terms of reference.

• To provide independent oversight of the Diocesan response to significant National developments (e.g. independent audits) through working with the DSO and chairing meetings where appropriate. Personal Specification ESSENTIAL DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS Academic and/or professional qualification in social or healthcare, education, or legal discipline, probation or equivalent experience in a related field (i.e. policing, public protection) Additional professional qualification working across the following areas: 1. Child protection 2. Vulnerable adults EXPERIENCE

• Recent and extensive professional safeguarding knowledge and expertise in a relevant statutory, voluntary or legal/judicial setting.

• Sufficiently senior experience working within the public or voluntary sector.

• Experience of chairing complex, cross-sector professional meetings.

• Experience of operational context of safeguarding in statutory and/or voluntary sector.

• Demonstrable commitment to the welfare of children and vulnerable adults through previous or current professional or voluntary activities. Demonstrable experience of working across the following areas: – Child protection – Vulnerable adults – Public protection KNOWLEDGE Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of:

• Current safeguarding best practice in relevant sectors, including faith and voluntary sector. • Legislation and statutory and other guidance.

• Research and other developments that inform and promote good safeguarding practice. SKILLS

• Effective negotiation and conflict resolution between agencies and individuals.

• Strong organisational awareness to support the effective operation of the DSAP promoting its role and function within diocesan governance.

• Strong analytical approach to problem solving.

• Ability to attend to detail.

• Solution-focused approach to resolving complex situations or practice issues. Effective presentation skills.

• Effective and clear communicator, with excellent written and verbal skills.

• Skilled listener and facilitator – able to manage and work with complex information across a range of topics.

• Responsive and sensitive to those who need to share or disclose confidential and sensitive information, such as survivors/ victims of abuse. Behaviours

• Mature and professional approach to all aspects of the role.

• Ability to work independently and on own initiative while contributing constructively to a wider team.

• Credible and respected profile, able to develop and maintain strong relationships with a variety of roles in various settings.

• Warm, open and approachable working style.

• To be respectful and accepting of the Christian objectives and ethos of the Diocese of Portsmouth.

• To act in such a way that, at all times, safeguards the health and wellbeing of children and vulnerable adults. Personal

• High level of personal integrity and discretion.

• Able to handle and manage confidential and sensitive information

• To be willing and able to undertake travel as required.

• To understand and be committed to the Diocese of Portsmouth and Portsmouth Cathedral policies on equality and diversity and treat everyone with dignity and respect. Expectations

• In-person attendance at four quarterly DSAP Meetings. In addition to attending other committee/governance meetings and/or providing support to the DSO (up to a maximum of 12 days per annum).

Terms

• £300 per day, £150 per half day.

• Self Employed, with submission of invoices.

• Appointed for an expected term of three years, with potential to review for a further term. How to Apply Please send CV along with a supporting statement outlining your suitability for the role to

The closing date for applications is Friday 21st February 2025.

Equality and Diversity All staff and colleagues are expected to demonstrate the value of ‘Respect for All’ and follow any guidelines and policies relating to equality and diversity, and equal opportunities. Confidentiality Maintaining confidentiality and preserving the integrity of our work in the Diocese is very important. You will not, except as authorised by the Diocese, or as required by law or your duties, use, divulge or disclose to any person, firm or organisation any information about individuals, parishes or the Diocese, or other confidential information relating to the organisation, finances, parishes, dealing and affairs of the Diocese which may come to your knowledge during your employment