Job Profile- Safeguarding Officer
Reporting to Head of Safeguarding
Location -SE1, London
Contract type- Permanent
Hours 35 -hours per week (Monday-Friday) 9am-5pm
(Occasional evening and weekend flexibility required)
Salary £38-42,000 per annum, depending on experience

The Archdiocese of Southwark is a diverse, vibrant diocese that covers the London boroughs to the South of the Thames, the county of Kent and the Medway Unitary Authority. This is an exciting new role for a safeguarding officer in an established, experienced & hard-working team, supporting the safeguarding function across the Archdiocese.

As the safeguarding support function for the Archdiocese, the team is here to serve the parishes, parishioners, agencies, Clergy, Volunteers and staff. The team works closely with survivors and those that have been harmed by abuse and it is essential that any applicant understands the importance of a compassionate, collaborative and person-centered approach, that this role requires. The role offers some flexibility with hybrid working considered, but will involve some travelling across the Diocese to complete the duties required.

The Archdiocese of Southwark is an inclusive work-force and we welcome applications from people for the diverse community that the Archdiocese serves.

Job Purpose:
The Safeguarding Officer will support the Safeguarding Team by managing referrals, complaints, and cases. This includes handling calls from survivors, ensuring timely and appropriate responses, managing and overseeing Safeguarding Plans, conducting comprehensive risk assessments, and providing support and advice to clergy, volunteers, parishioners, and staff within the diocese.

Key Responsibilities:

Operations:
• Follow the National Safeguarding Policies of the Catholic Church of England & Wales within the Diocese.
• Manage all Safeguarding Plans and be the main point of contact for all Parish Safeguarding Representatives.
• Provide any required administrative support to the Safeguarding Office.

Allegations Management:
• Assist in assessing safeguarding concerns and managing risks.
• Communicate with survivors in a sensitive manner.
• Regularly review ongoing cases and maintain accurate, timely case records.
• Ensure confidentiality is maintained according to agreed policies and Data Protection principles.

General Duties:
• Support the Head of Safeguarding and the Safeguarding Team in providing compassionate support to those harmed by abuse.
• Aid in completing audits and annual reports.
• Travel to parishes and other locations as necessary.
• Help produce and deliver safeguarding training across the Diocese.
• Undertake other duties as required, consistent with the grade and level of responsibility for this post.

Qualifications & Skills:
• Experience in safeguarding or related fields.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and empathy.
• Proficiency in conducting risk assessments and managing cases.

How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit their CV and cover letter to HR@rcaos.org.uk by 25th February 2025.

First stage interviews will take place on 3rd/4th March. Second stage  interviews will take place on 13th March.

Please note that we can only accept applications from applicants with the right to work in the UK.