At a Glance
- Tasks: Represent survivors' experiences and shape safeguarding policies within the Church of England.
- Company: Join the National Safeguarding Panel, a vital body for safeguarding work.
- Benefits: Earn £25 per hour for meetings and get travel expenses covered.
- Other info: Flexible hybrid meetings and a supportive induction programme await you.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by advocating for survivors of faith-based abuse.
- Qualifications: Experience with survivors and in advocacy or policy development is essential.
The National Safeguarding Panel (NSP) is seeking to appoint TWO representatives from a survivor’s organisation that works with individuals affected by faith-based abuse to join its independent scrutiny and advisory body. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the safeguarding work of the Church of England by offering strategic insight, scrutiny, and challenge from the perspective of survivors. The NSP plays a vital role in shaping safeguarding policy and practice, ensuring that the voices of victims and survivors are heard and meaningfully integrated into decision-making.
Role Expectation
- Time Commitment: Approx. 6–8 meetings per year, plus preparation
- Term: 3 years, renewable for 2 years
- Location: Meetings held in London and across dioceses (hybrid attendance available)
Remuneration and Expenses
A fee of £25 per hour will be paid for attendance at meetings, along with reimbursement for travel expenses. Members are expected to attend six meetings per year and undertake one hour of reading in preparation for each panel meeting. Additional reasonable expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with the Church of England’s NCI expenses policy, subject to approval by the Chair.
Support and Induction
New members will receive a full induction programme, including meetings with key panel and safeguarding team members, and access to relevant resources.
How to apply
To apply, please submit your CV along with a personal statement of no more than 500 words outlining your relevant skills and experience, and explaining why you are interested in the role.
Responsibilities
- Represent the experiences and perspectives of survivors of faith-based abuse.
- Participate in scrutiny sessions and fact-finding meetings, helping to shape recommendations to the Church’s National Safeguarding Steering Group.
- Provide independent advice on safeguarding policy and practice.
- Engage with other panel members from diverse backgrounds, including survivors, safeguarding professionals, and faith representatives.
- Contribute to the development of a proactive and constructive safeguarding culture across the Church.
Qualifications
- Work directly with survivors of abuse within any faith-based context
- Have experience in scrutiny, advocacy, or policy development.
- Are committed to survivor-led approaches and trauma-informed practice.
- Can nominate a representative with lived or professional experience relevant to the NSP’s remit.
The nominated representative should be able to:
- Attend up to six panel meetings per year (some in-person, some online).
- Contribute to written submissions and discussions.
- Collaborate respectfully with a multiagency, multidenominational panel.
Survivor Organisation Representative in London employer: National Church Institutions (Church of England)
Bishopthorpe Palace offers a unique and fulfilling work environment for the Team Administrator role, where you will play a vital part in supporting the Archbishop’s Chaplain and the wider team. With a strong emphasis on collaboration, safeguarding, and community engagement, employees benefit from a supportive culture that encourages personal growth and development. Located in a historic setting, this position not only provides meaningful work but also the opportunity to contribute to the mission of the Church of England while enjoying a balanced work-life dynamic.
Contact Details:
National Church Institutions (Church of England) Recruitment Team
