This post supports the development of best safeguarding practice in the North West regional cluster of Diocesan Boards of Finance (DBFs) and cathedrals.
The Regional Safeguarding Lead (RSL) provides professional supervision and quality assurance to Safeguarding Officers working in DBFs and cathedrals in their region. The RSL supports the ongoing implementation of the National Safeguarding Standards to encourage consistency of practice and support Church bodies to respond to the findings of the Independent Safeguarding Audit Programme.
The RSL will continue to embed the North West Regional Safeguarding Networks, facilitating the sharing of best practice and resources, group supervision, and the commissioning of joint initiatives between Church bodies.
The RSL is required to work closely with senior managers, senior clergy and other stakeholders in these bodies, representing the NST at the local level. The RSLs work closely as a team and with other colleagues in the NST to ensure Church wide consistency in approach.
Please note: The post involves extensive travel across the North West region, travel to London at least once a month, and to other areas for NST events. This post will be responsible for the North West region, covering the dioceses of Manchester, Liverpool, Carlisle, Sodor & Man, Blackburn & Chester.
For external applicants, shortlisting will commence from 19 August 2026, and interviews will take place on Monday, 7 September 2026.
Responsibilities
- Providing 1:1 professional supervision to Safeguarding Officers in dioceses & cathedrals, supporting them to reflect & help to advance their critical thinking, knowledge, skills & values.
- Quality assurance of practices & processes to ensure the Church of England’s National Safeguarding Standards are being consistently met or worked towards.
- Lead the Regional Safeguarding Networks for safeguarding professionals from dioceses & cathedrals & for the joint Diocesan & Cathedral Safeguarding Advisory Panel chairs for the North West & North East.
- Establish effective relationships with other RSLs, including attending a monthly team meeting in London, & supporting the wider work of the NST.
- Establish effective relationships with key stakeholders in dioceses & cathedrals in the North West region.
- Taking responsibility for a subject specialism as required.
Qualifications
Experience as a case worker leading in cases involving the protection and safeguarding of children and/or vulnerable adults.
Up-to-date knowledge of research and evidence-based practice models relevant to safeguarding
Experience of providing professional supervision in respect of safeguarding
Experience in working at a strategic level, at least at the middle manager level, influencing decision-making and implementation
Expertise in working with and engaging victims and survivors
Experience of leading organisation change and development, including cultural change, that results in improved outcomes for relevant stakeholders
Experience of working with statutory and non-statutory organisations in managing safeguarding allegations and assessing risk.
It is desirable that you have experience of safeguarding within a church context, alongside prior experience as a Diocesan Safeguarding Officer or Cathedral Safeguarding Officer.
Further information about the skills & personal attributes required can be found within the job description here.
Regional Safeguarding Lead 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
