Gail Johnson has been a Chaplaincy Safeguarding Officer (CSO) for the past ten years in Costa Blanca.  “My role as CSO is secured in my faith, that I am called ‘to love/care for others’, not just in the difficult times but at all times and in all situations.
I feel that my faith has deepened and been strengthened through this valuable work.”

This calling to work on safeguarding is echoed by Susan Boyd, CSO for the chaplaincy of Norway. “My role as CSO is absolutely one of the best ways for me to serve the church. We are asked to care and love our neighbour. This is a practical way in which I can help.”

Our CSO network is critical to ensure we provide Safeguarding across our chaplaincies and to create an environment where everyone is safe and welcome.

Grace Fagan-Stewart, Diocesan Head of Safeguarding explains:
“We are always grateful to every one of our CSOs. They give their time, expertise and care to support everyone in their chaplaincy. Our network is engaged, supportive of each other and their own chaplaincies and always driven by love and care for everyone who worships in all of our churches. I hope they all know how grateful my team, and all the diocese is to them all.”

What would Susan and Gail recommend if someone is thinking about becoming a CSO, or is asked to consider the role? 
“Have a chat to someone who has had a positive experience already, look at the job description on the Diocese of Europe web site, does the criteria suit you?” 
“...speak with their chaplain about the role and the support they can expect. Without this support it could be a very lonely place. Or speak with someone on the Diocesan Safeguarding Team, you will find they are helpful and reassuring at all times.”

The CSO network receives training and also two conferences a year which are an opportunity to gather together, share experiences and keep learning together,

Like all roles, it can be challenging at times, but Gail and Susan both share how the support from the Diocesan Safeguarding Team really helps. “Becoming a CSO is a wonderful way to serve your community. You are not on your own the priest, Wardens, Church Council all have their Safeguarding responsibilities and there to help you. You will be trained, invited to attend 2 short online conferences, they are recorded if you can’t make it! and on the Diocese in Europe Safeguarding pages you will find lots of helpful practical information.”

If you are interested in becoming a CSO for your chaplaincy, chat to the Diocesan Safeguarding Team who are there to support you.

“My role as CSO is absolutely one of the best ways for me to serve the church.” shared Susan, and Gail agrees “My role as CSO has brought me closer to the people in our worship centres”. 

Have you thought about becoming a CSO in your local chaplaincy? Talk to the safeguarding team who will be happy to lead you through what is involved and how they can support you. 

Join us in praying for and celebrating the work of all our Chaplaincy Safeguarding Officers, whose dedication and work is essential to helping us create a safer church for everyone.