Forest Focus Group

Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) and their deputies hold a position of significant responsibility within schools, colleges, childcare settings, and other organisations working with children. They are the main point of contact for safeguarding concerns and are responsible for ensuring that children are protected from harm, abuse, and neglect. Because of the complexity and seriousness of this role, DSLs require specific, ongoing training that goes beyond basic awareness. Understanding what training is required helps organisations remain compliant while ensuring that safeguarding decisions are informed, confident, and legally sound.

Core Safeguarding Knowledge and Legal Frameworks

At the foundation of the DSL role is a strong understanding of safeguarding principles and child protection law. DSLs must be fully familiar with legislation, statutory guidance, and local safeguarding procedures that govern how concerns are identified, recorded, and reported. This includes recognising different forms of abuse, understanding thresholds for intervention, and knowing when to escalate concerns to external agencies.

Completing a recognised Safeguarding Children Training Course provides DSLs and deputies with this essential knowledge base. It ensures they understand their legal duties and the consequences of failing to act appropriately. This training forms the backbone of effective safeguarding leadership, allowing DSLs to make decisions that prioritise the child’s welfare while remaining compliant with regulatory expectations.

Advanced Training for the Designated Safeguarding Lead Role

While general safeguarding training is important for all staff, DSLs require advanced-level training that reflects their leadership responsibilities. This training focuses on managing complex safeguarding cases, handling disclosures, and coordinating responses with social care, police, and other agencies. DSLs must also understand how to manage allegations against staff and volunteers, which requires sensitivity and strict adherence to procedure.

An advanced Safeguarding Children Training Course equips DSLs with the confidence to lead safeguarding practice across an organisation. It moves beyond theory and focuses on real-world decision-making, case management, and accountability. This level of training ensures DSLs are not only aware of safeguarding risks but are also capable of managing them effectively under pressure.

Training Requirements for Deputy Safeguarding Leads

Deputy DSLs must be trained to the same standard as the Designated Safeguarding Lead. Although deputies may not always be the primary decision-makers, they are expected to step into the role seamlessly when required. This means they must have equal understanding of safeguarding legislation, reporting processes, and case management responsibilities.

Enrolling deputies on a Safeguarding Children Training Course ensures consistency in safeguarding practice across the organisation. It prevents gaps in knowledge and reduces risk during staff absences or transitions. Properly trained deputies provide continuity and reassurance, ensuring that safeguarding responsibilities are upheld at all times without delay or uncertainty.

Ongoing Refresher Training and Updates

Safeguarding guidance and legislation are regularly updated, making ongoing training essential for DSLs and their deputies. Most regulatory bodies expect DSLs to complete refresher training at least every two years, with regular updates provided annually. These updates ensure that safeguarding practice remains aligned with current law and best practice.

A structured Safeguarding Children Training Course often includes update modules designed specifically for safeguarding leaders. These sessions cover emerging risks such as online safety, contextual safeguarding, and exploitation trends. Continuous professional development helps DSLs remain proactive rather than reactive, strengthening safeguarding systems and reducing organisational risk.