Bishop Robert has been appointed a Deputy Lead Bishop for Safeguarding for the Church of England, with a focus on liaison with diocesan bishops on behalf of the National Safeguarding Steering Group (NSSG). He brings with him more than 30 years of parish and diocesan ministry leadership and takes over from the Bishop of Bristol, Viv Faull.
Bishop Robert will work closely with the Lead Bishop for Safeguarding, Joanne Grenfell, and the National Director for Safeguarding, Alexander Kubeyinje, to continue to develop the Church’s safeguarding practices. He will also work closely with Bishop Julie Conalty, Deputy Lead Bishop who has a focus on survivor engagement.
Along with being a member of the NSSG, Bishop Robert will also sit on the National Safeguarding Panel, attend the House of Bishops and be a member of the Theology of Safeguarding Group and the Safeguarding Programme Board.
Speaking about his appointment, Bishop Robert said: “I am very pleased to have the opportunity to serve in this role and to share with Bishops Joanne and Julie in bringing my experience of parish and diocesan ministry to the task of developing a robust and healthy safeguarding culture in the Church.”
Lead Safeguarding Bishop Joanne Grenfell said: “I am delighted that Bishop Robert has agreed to take on this role, bringing his long experience in ministry to help lead and promote good safeguarding across the Church in 2024, creating a healthy culture in the work that goes on every day and in particular as we continue to learn how to respond well to survivors.
“I would like to thank Bishop Viv for all she has done, particularly in the Lords and the Anglican Communion Safer Church Commission. I know she will continue to support and promote good safeguarding in her national and diocesan roles and I look forward to continuing to work with her.”
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