The Cathedral is committed to the safeguarding, care and nurture of everyone within our community and follows the ethos and principles of Safeguarding as outlined by the National Church.
Namely:
We are part of the Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich; the Diocese website has more information about Safeguarding.
If you have any concerns, please contact one of our safeguarding team below or Suffolk Safeguarding Customer First free phone 0800 9171 109. If someone is at immediate risk of harm, call the police on 999.
WILL WRIGHT
Independent Committee Chair
Will has dedicated over twenty years to safeguarding in Suffolk, with a significant portion of his career focused on this critical area. His extensive experience spans various sectors, including the Military, Policing, and more recently, Local Authorities across Suffolk. In his current role, Will is directly involved in safeguarding, demonstrating his commitment to protecting and supporting the community.
Throughout his career, Will has been dedicated to supporting others and ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all. As the Safeguarding Independent Committee Chair, Will promotes an inclusive and safe environment for everyone.
THE REV’D CANON MATTHEW VERNON
Priest with Pastoral Charge
Canon Pastor and Sub Dean
Canon Matthew was installed in February 2009 as Canon Pastor, having served for 8 years as a Chaplain at St John’s Cathedral in Hong Kong. He became Sub Dean in October 2012. He is Chair of the Diocesan Healing & Wholeness Group. He is also Chair of the Abbey of St Edmund Heritage partnership, which brings together the groups and people passionate about the Abbey area at the heart of Bury St Edmunds.
BARBARA PYCRAFT
Chapter Safeguarding Lead
Barbara is originally from Belfast and was brought up in the Methodist tradition, (with its wonderful hymn tunes) before being confirmed into the Church of England at Manchester Cathedral, whilst at University there. Following a varied career as a Secondary School Teacher, Music Director and Commercial Manager, she moved to Suffolk in 2008 and now holds responsibilities within the local community. As part of her Chapter role, Barbara sits on or chairs various committees such as the Vestey Music Trust, Safeguarding and the Ancient Library.
MARY MEMARZIA
Independent Safeguarding
Committee Member
Mary had a career in education spanning 40 years, working in secondary schools, further education and the independent sector, first as an English teacher and then as a pastoral leader, manager and trainer. In all these contexts, safeguarding was an integral part of her work. Most recently, as Director of Student Services and Designated Safeguarding Lead in a college for international students, she had responsibility for the care of vulnerable students, far from home and the support of family; their wellbeing and safety was paramount. Mary has written articles about the importance of effective pastoral care in ensuring positive outcomes for young people.
ABBI THORPE
Committee Member
Abbi has worked in the education sector in a support staff role for over 20 years. She was a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead in a Primary School, worked in the Sixth Form of a Secondary School before becoming the Pastoral Manager and Designated Safeguarding Lead at a Sixth Form College where she was also a Mental Health First Aider.
She currently delivers Safeguarding Training to senior leaders in schools and is a Governance Professional. Prior to working in schools she was a rural youth worker in Essex and volunteered at a drug drop in centre run by the Childrens’ Society. She volunteers with Suffolk Mind and is a congregation member of the Cathedral.
SCOTT OWEN
Committee Member
Scott works for the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust. He is Frontline Ambulance Practitioner, Trust Cultural Ambassador, and Chairs the Trusts Multi-Faith Network. With a strong focus on safeguarding, care, and compassion. Scott plays a vital role in protecting vulnerable people, spotting signs of abuse or neglect, and making sure the right support is in place.
As Cultural Ambassador and Network Chair, Scott promotes understanding across different faiths and cultures within the Trust. When time allows Scott also serves the Cathedral and its Community as an Honorary Verger.
SHELLY THOMAS
Assistant Diocesan Safeguarding Officer
Shelley brings a deep passion for safeguarding to her role, underpinned by her background working in policing, education and substance misuse support. She is a former police officer with extensive frontline experience managing complex safeguarding issues and community risk. Previously, she has worked as pastoral and welfare officer at a primary school, supporting vulnerable students and working closely with families and external agencies.
07795 974734
