Archbishop of Canterbury celebrates contribution of safeguarding officers

Fifteen parish safeguarding officers (PSOs) from the Diocese of Oxford were joined by the Archbishop of Canterbury at a recent service of recognition and thanks at Lambeth Palace.

The service was one of a series held nationally to celebrate the contribution made by the Church of England’s PSOs, who help build safer church communities in parishes nationwide. Other services were held at Bishopthorpe in the Diocese of York and at St Paul’s Cathedral.

Michael, PSO in Cublington and who attended the service, said “I certainly felt there was a real and strong commitment in the Archbishop and her team in their care for a safer Church.”

The Diocese of Oxford’s head of safeguarding, Louise Whitehead, said: “This was an important occasion that recognised the commitment, care, compassion and dedication of parish safeguarding officers and the vital role they play in supporting safer church communities.

“We were delighted that 15 of our PSOs were able to attend to represent the 500 or so PSOs who do so much great work in our diocese.”

Addressing attendees at St Paul’s Cathedral, the Church’s national director of safeguarding, Alexander Kubeyinje, said: “Safeguarding is at the heart of the Church’s mission. I want to thank you for listening, for responding, for all you do, from the bottom of my heart, because you are making the church a safer place.”