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NEWCASTLE CATHEDRAL
NEWCASTLE CATHEDRAL
A BEACON OF LIGHT
Living the Lantern with Jayne, Cathedral Safeguarding Officer
Published March 2026
In the Middle Ages, Newcastle Cathedral’s Lantern Tower guided ships along the River Tyne. Today, the Cathedral continues this legacy, serving as a beacon of hope for those navigating life’s challenges…
“Safeguarding shines at the heart of the Diocese’s life and work. As such, we are committed to the care and protection of all children, young people and vulnerable adults who visit, work or volunteer at our Cathedral.” A quote from the Dean of Newcastle, The Dean of Newcastle.
Jayne Forsdike, our Cathedral Safeguarding Officer, writes…
Since starting this role in October 2024, I have had the pleasure of getting to know clergy, staff, volunteers, congregation members and colleagues from across the Diocese. Their generosity and openness have helped me build a strong understanding of this new (to me!) Church context.
Before joining the Cathedral, I spent 30 years working in statutory services. Transitioning into an environment where people often wear multiple hats and where there are no direct equivalents to the teams and departments I was used to has offered both stimulating challenges and valuable new perspectives.
One thing that continually impresses me is the Cathedral and Diocese’s deep and visible commitment to safeguarding. We do not shy away from confronting the painful reality of church-based abuse and its lasting impact on victims and survivors.
This commitment is reflected in the Cathedral’s ongoing display of the LOUDfence for survivors of church-based abuse and in hosting a Moral Injury Conference in 2025, led by the Diocesan Chaplaincy to Survivors. It was also a privilege for the Cathedral to exhibit ‘Jagged Edges’ — a powerful installation now on display at Canterbury Cathedral, coinciding with the Archbishop of Canterbury’s installation.
Being a city-centre Cathedral brings unique challenges in an area with high levels of deprivation, substance misuse, homelessness, and domestic abuse. In response, we provide a place of worship and a source of support for some of the most vulnerable and marginalised in our city. In fulfilling this role, safeguarding is paramount – particularly as we regularly welcome school groups, families and choristers.
Above: Jayne pictured with the LOUDfence and with Ian Roberts, Newcastle Cathedral’s Director of Music.
Throughout 2025, I focused on increasing safeguarding awareness, strengthening processes, delivering tailored training, and supporting safer recruitment. I also reviewed the Safeguarding Committee to ensure broader partner representation. As a result, safeguarding is now more deeply embedded across Cathedral life.
There will always be more we can do, as we continue to strive to provide a culture and environment where victims and survivors can report or disclose abuse safely and where they will find support and best practices that contribute to the prevention of abuse.
I never saw myself working anywhere other than within a statutory setting. Now a year on, the sense of purpose has exceeded my expectations. I’m so glad I took that leap of faith!