David Cooper appointed as Independent Chair of Diocesan Safeguarding Oversight Group
A new Independent Chair of the Diocesan Safeguarding Oversight Group has been announced.
David Cooper will bring a wealth of knowledge to the role as an experienced senior manager with an extensive background in local authority, Health and Voluntary sectors.
David will provide leadership and promote collaborative working as part of his role which includes providing constructive challenge by holding the Diocese to account and acting as spokesperson for the Safeguarding Oversight Group.
The Diocesan Safeguarding Oversight group (DSOG) meets four times a year and provides challenge & scrutiny to the diocesan safeguarding arrangements. It assists with safeguarding strategy and planning.
David said he wanted the Group to be supportive while also offering constructive challenge to the Diocese, so that it met its responsibility as a Group, to hold the Diocese to account in the important area of safeguarding. He is also keen to involve all church members, listen to children and young people and encourage more support for the survivors of abuse through the work of the Group.
David has substantial experience in the area of safeguarding including chairing safeguarding boards, and has worked in both local government and for NHS organisations.
The Independent Chair was appointed by Leicester Diocese through an open appointments process.
David said “I am delighted to take up the role of Independent Chair of the Diocese of Leicester Safeguarding Oversight Group and to build on the excellent foundation which my predecessor and other colleagues have established in raising the awareness of safeguarding“.