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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 post holder will assist the Safeguarding Team with the following:

1. The management of safeguarding referrals, complaints and cases- to include handling calls from survivors ensuring they are responded to in an appropriate and timely manner.
2. To be responsible for the management and oversight of Safeguarding Plans, assessing risk and completing comprehensive risk assessments
3. To have extensive experience of working with sex offenders and others who pose a risk and have experience co-operating in MAPPA meetings.
4. Working collaboratively with and providing safeguarding support and advice to Clergy, volunteers, parishioners and staff in the parishes, religious orders and other organisations within the diocese.
5. To have specific responsibility for Parish Safeguarding Representatives, their recruitment, support and ongoing training.
6. Participate in Safeguarding Training for Clergy, Volunteers, PSR’s and Staff, where required.
7. Administration of the Safeguarding Office
8. The implementation of the National Safeguarding Policies of the Catholic Church on behalf of the Archbishop and Trustees of Southwark Archdiocese.

Principal duties and responsibilities

Operations

The Safeguarding Officer is to work in conjunction with both the Head of Safeguarding and the dedicated team, in relation to meeting the safeguarding operational needs of the Diocese which includes;

1. To operate and follow the Catholic Church of England & Wales’ National Safeguarding Policies, procedures and best practice within the Diocese.
2. Manage all Safeguarding and Care Plans
3. Hold responsibility and be the nominated contact for all Parish Safeguarding Representatives
4. Any administrative support that is required

Allegations Management

In all circumstances related to case management, the Safeguarding Officer is to assist and be directed by the Head of Safeguarding which includes;

1. To assess safeguarding concerns/ complaints and manage risk.
2. To speak with survivors and respond to them in an appropriate and sensitive manner.
3. To keep on-going cases under regular review and progress.
4. To maintain accurate and timely written case records as required.
5. To ensure that confidentiality is maintained in line with agreed policies and protocols, with due regard to the principles of Data Protection, encouraging others to do the same.

General

1. To assist the Head of Safeguarding and the Safeguarding Team with the compassionate and responsive support of those that have been harmed by abuse.
2. To assist in the completion of Audits and Annual Reports.
3. To travel to parishes and other locations as the needs of the post require.
4. To aid in the production and delivery of Safeguarding training across the Diocese
5. To undertake any other duties commensurate with the grade and level of responsibility for this post this may from time to time be required.

Person specification:

This section outlines the competencies you will need to be able to demonstrate to be successful in your application.  We are a hardworking and dedicated team and there is an expectation that the successful candidate is passionate about safeguarding and works to the shared values of the Catholic Church. You will also need to be able to demonstrate the following areas.

Skills/competence requirements

Essential (E) / Desirable (D)

• Ability to organise own work and prioritise.(E)
• Excellent written and oral communications.(E)
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.(E)
• Ability to work in a strictly confidential environment and handle sensitive information.(E)
• Knowledge of legislation affecting safeguarding. (E)
• To set an example of positive personal integrity and professionalism, with positive, appropriate and effective communications and relationships at all level. (E)
• Ensure high standards are maintained, progressed and promoted in all areas of work. (E)
• To undertake appropriate professional development and positively participate in the appraisal of own performance. (E)
• Communicate and co-operate effectively and positively with specialists from outside agencies where applicable. (E)
• Training development and delivery skills. (D)
• Broad understanding of safeguarding within the Catholic Church.(D)
• A thorough understanding of the current DBS regime. (D)
• Good working knowledge and understanding of Microsoft Office software packages (Word, Excel and outlook), databases and IT. (D)
• Expertise in assessing risk. (E)

Experience

• To have extensive experience working with sex offenders/MAPPA   (E)
• Substantial relevant experience in a similar role with statutory Agencies or similar (E)
• Experience of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. (E)
• Experience of dealing sensitively and professionally with vulnerable groups. (E)
• Experience of office and team working. (E)
• Experience preparing and delivering training. (D)
• Awareness of issues affecting survivors/victims of abuse. (D)
• Experience of supporting a volunteer workforce. (D)

Qualifications

Educated to degree level or equivalent in relevant subject area (D)