Cathedral and Diocese INEQE Safeguarding Audit Report, 2024

In February of 2024, both the Cathedral and Diocese were externally audited for our safeguarding work. This audit was part of the Church of England’s ongoing commitment to making the Church a safer place for all, ensuring that all cathedrals and dioceses have the best possible practice in place.

“The Audit found a strong and tangible focus on safeguarding with a clear leadership commitment to create and support a culture that enables everyone engaged with and by the church to flourish”.

- INEQE Safeguarding Audit Report, 2024

INEQE were the group appointed by the Archbishops Council to carry out the audit and they spent a full week with us in February. They interviewed people in different roles across the diocese and Cathedral, ran surveys, and examined documents and paperwork.

ead the full INEQE Safeguarding Audit Report

Bishop Rachel, Bishop Robert and Dean Andrew have welcomed this report:

“We want to say a huge thank you to everyone who took part or contributed to this audit, from our Parish Safeguarding Officers, clergy, lay leaders, Cathedral Chapter and community, partner organisations and all those working in our central and Cathedral offices, especially our Safeguarding Team. There is a lot to be proud of and we are committed to building on the recommendations made as we continue to strive for the highest level of safeguarding in the Diocese of Gloucester, making our churches and our Cathedral the safest places they can possibly be.”

“The SCIE audit (2019) found that the Cathedral had a culture where people could learn, ask questions, and escalate concerns. This Independent Audit has found that the Cathedral has consolidated this position, and it mirrors the SCIE finding.”

- INEQE Safeguarding Audit Report, 2024

We are really pleased to share that the report highlights significant positives and encouragement. These included:

· Recognition of the Cathedral’s strong and tangible focus on safeguarding, demonstrated through leadership and governance arrangements.

· Recognition of the Diocesan safeguarding team, for being appreciated at all levels across the diocese and Cathedral for the support, advice and training they provide and our current support for victims or survivors.

“The Diocesan Safeguarding Team (DST) is universally recognised and appreciated at all levels across the DBF and parishes, as well as the Cathedral.”

- INEQE Safeguarding Audit Report, 2024

The report also provides helpful areas of focus for which we could further develop our safeguarding culture and processes. These will now go to our Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Panel, led by our independent Chair, and the Cathedral Chapter to help shape our ongoing safeguarding work and plans. We will ensure to continue to keep you updated.

“The Dean works closely with the Bishop as they collectively endeavour to sustain a safeguarding culture that enables people across the Cathedral and beyond to flourish. Their Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy is comprehensive, they champion Mental Health First Aid, and their Welcome Values convey a real sense that the Cathedral is committed to creating a positive safeguarding culture.”

- INEQE Safeguarding Audit Report, 2024