Post Introduction

The National Safeguarding Panel (NSP) is seeking to appoint a Survivor Representative with lived experience of faith-based abuse to join its independent scrutiny and advisory body.

This is a vital opportunity to ensure that survivor voices are central to the Church of England’s safeguarding policy and practice. The NSP provides independent scrutiny, challenge, and strategic advice to the Church, with a strong commitment to survivor engagement and trauma-informed approaches.

About the Role

As a panel member, you will:

• Bring your lived experience of faith-based abuse to inform and shape safeguarding policy and practice.
• Participate in up to six panel meetings per year, including fact-finding and scrutiny sessions.
• Contribute to discussions that influence national safeguarding priorities and recommendations.
• Collaborate with a diverse panel including other survivors, safeguarding professionals, and faith representatives.
• Help ensure that survivor perspectives are heard, respected, and embedded in the Church’s safeguarding work.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applications from individuals who:

• Have lived experience of abuse within a faith-based context
• Are willing to share insights in a constructive and respectful manner.
• Can contribute to scrutiny and policy discussions, drawing on personal experience and broader survivor perspectives.
• Are committed to improving safeguarding outcomes for others.

You do not need to have formal qualifications or previous panel experience. What matters most is your lived experience, your voice, and your willingness to contribute to meaningful change.

Support and Induction

All new members will receive a full induction programme, including:

• Meetings with key panel and safeguarding team members.
• Access to relevant resources and support.
• Ongoing review discussions and opportunities for feedback.

Remuneration and Expenses 

A rate 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. 

How to apply 

To apply, please email your current CV, along with a personal statement of no more than 500 words demonstrating your relevant skills, experience and reason why you are interested in the role to hr.recruitment@churchofengland.org  

Applications close on Tuesday, 18 November. Candidates whose applications are taken forward will be invited for an interview on Tuesday, 25 November.