Lead Chaplain

South Yorkshire Police

Volunteer Lead Chaplain

• Coordinate and mentor a team of volunteer chaplains across the region
• Provide confidential care to individuals of all faiths and none
• Support the force’s wellbeing strategy, trauma response protocols and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy
• Represent chaplaincy at ceremonial, civic, and community events
• Promote moral resilience, ethical leadership, and interfaith understanding
• Liaise with national chaplaincy networks and key stakeholders to ensure best practice

• Experienced and active in leadership in ministry
• Ordained or accredited faith leader with active ministry experience
• Strong leadership, listening, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work inclusively across diverse belief systems
• Commitment to ethical service, confidentiality, and public trust
• Willingness to engage with national chaplaincy development initiatives

• Opportunity to serve police officers, staff and volunteers through the challenges of policing
• Leadership experience overseeing wellbeing and pastoral care in a complex operational environment
• Practical exposure to police culture, safeguarding responsibilities, and organisational wellbeing practices
• Respected position in a diverse, multi‑faith chaplaincy team, shaping strategic direction and service delivery

Support is available through the HR and Learning team, with an allocated lead providing onboarding and administrative assistance for new recruits.

This voluntary role is based within South Yorkshire Police. Hours are flexible, with an expectation of occasional on‑call availability and attendance at key events across the force area. The position typically requires a commitment of two days per week: one day for visiting assigned stations or facilities, and another for leadership, coordination, and engagement activities.

Applicants must meet a minimum checkable history of five (5) years and successfully undergo recruitment vetting procedures required for employment with South Yorkshire Police.

Applications are particularly welcome from female and ethnic minority candidates. We encourage applications from underrepresented groups and provide support for part‑time or job‑share working hours.