National Safeguarding Practice Lead

You will act as the operational lead for safeguarding practice, working closely with Operational Leads, Designated Safeguarding Officers (DSOs) and senior colleagues to drive quality, consistency and continuous improvement. Regular travel across England and Wales expected.

You will:

• Lead the development and improvement of national safeguarding practice, guidance, tools and processes.
• Ensure safeguarding is embedded across all services, aligned to the VS Service Model and EDI commitments.
• Develop and review safeguarding procedures and resources, keeping them accurate, accessible and legally compliant.
• Deliver the Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) Forum and other safeguarding networks.
• Support safeguarding training, learning resources and awareness activity.
• Provide expert advice on safeguarding queries and oversee appropriate escalation.
• Monitor safeguarding activity and contribute to audits and assurance.
• Embed safeguarding into service design, digital and innovation projects.

About you:

You will bring strong safeguarding expertise and the confidence to influence practice across a complex organisation.

You will have:

• Extensive knowledge and experience of safeguarding children and adults.
• Proven experience of developing safeguarding policies, procedures and practice guidance.
• Experience of delivering training and supporting practice development.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• A good understanding of trauma‑informed and inclusive practice.
• Emotional resilience to work with traumatic material.