Safeguarding Officers Unite in Cathedral service
Many of our Parish Safeguarding Officers (PSOs) were invited to attend a special service in the cathedral to mark Safeguarding Sunday, a campaign by national charity Thirtyone:eight.
The PSOs travelled from every corner of the Diocese for the service, which acknowledged the church’s commitment to protecting the most vulnerable, but was also a call to move from awareness into action—actively building safer, more caring communities.
During the service, Diocesan Safeguarding Officer Colin Perkins gave a stirring homily, honouring the compassion, resolve and dedication of safeguarding officers. He reminded those gathered, “Safeguarding is not just a tick box exercise—it is gospel work.”
After the service, officers, clergy, and supporters connected over refreshments, exchanging encouragement and practical wisdom from their parish experiences. As one officer reflected, “Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Today’s gathering powerfully reminds us: in this vital work, we stand together, never alone.”
Photo caption: (Left to right) PSO Karen Smith, Uckfield; Bishop Will; Diana Strange, East Wittering; Bishop Ruth and Keith Henderson, Rustington