Head of Safeguarding in London

Head of Safeguarding role at The Church of England

The Diocese of Southwark is seeking a highly experienced safeguarding practitioner to lead and manage a well‑respected team and ensure the diocese maintains the highest standards of protection for children and vulnerable adults in accordance with national policy. The Head of Safeguarding has operational lead authority within the diocese for the National Safeguarding Standards and is a member of the Senior Management Team, upholding our values of transparent accountability, collaborative teamwork, respect for all, and effective stewardship of resources.

Excellent safeguarding policies, processes and practices are central to the mission and ministry of our large diocese covering South London and East Surrey. You will work in close collaboration with the National Safeguarding Team, with regular professional supervision and opportunities for continuing professional development.

• Manage the diocesan safeguarding team, providing practitioner expertise and overseeing triage, assessment and management of casework; liaise with relevant agencies such as the police, probation services and local authorities.
• Lead and coordinate all safeguarding casework within the Diocese, ensuring compliance with Safeguarding Codes of Practice, House of Bishops Safeguarding Guidance and other statutory requirements.
• Maintain up‑to‑date case files by accurately recording actions in the National Safeguarding Case Management System (MyConcern).
• Collaborate with the Diocesan Bishop, senior clergy, the Diocesan Secretary and other staff to develop and improve safeguarding practice and culture across the Diocese.
• Provide leadership, support and advice to the wider diocese, including Southwark Cathedral, on safeguarding arrangements, good practice, policy and training.
• Ensure allegations of abuse are appropriately managed and liaise with relevant agencies; provide support to survivors and victims.
• Complete comprehensive risk assessments and safety plans for individuals who pose risks in the church context.
• Advise the diocese on safeguarding matters in line with the law, government guidance and national policy from the House of Bishops.

• Case worker lead responsibility in safeguarding of children and/or adults (essential), with some experience in statutory safeguarding agencies (desirable).
• Broader leadership/management experience influencing good safeguarding practice and safeguarding cultures.
• Up‑to‑date knowledge of research and evidence‑based practice models relevant to safeguarding.
• Experience working with victims, survivors and perpetrators of abuse; experience with statutory and non‑statutory organisations in managing safeguarding allegations and risk.
• Qualified professional or equivalent substantial experience (e.g., social care or criminal justice) with current registration where applicable.
• Strategic leadership ability and experience influencing safeguarding practice development across organisations.
• Self‑starter who can lead independently and challenge senior colleagues when appropriate.
• Experience with survivors of abuse to ensure appropriate support and advice is provided.
• Not required to be a practising Christian but must be sympathetic to the church ethos and values.

Southwark is a diverse and vibrant diocese serving South London and East Surrey. We are one of the largest dioceses in the Church of England, with churches that welcome and care for people, chaplains in education, hospitals and prisons, and communities innovating to serve in new ways. Our vision is Christ‑centred, outward focused, and built on mutual commitment and walking together in faith. The Diocese is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults; all post holders share this commitment.

This appointment is subject to acceptable pre‑appointment checks, including a satisfactory Enhanced DBS (with Barred List) checks. The closing date for completed applications is 7 September 2025.