Introduction to the Designated Safeguarding Lead Role

Introduction to the Designated Safeguarding Lead Role

The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is the person appointed to take lead responsibility for child protection issues in an organisation. This role is crucial in early years settings, schools, and other organisations working with children and young people.

Core Responsibilities of a DSL

Lead Responsibility: The DSL has overall lead responsibility for safeguarding and child protection in the setting.

Policy and Procedure Development: Developing, implementing, and regularly reviewing safeguarding policies and procedures.

Staff Training: Ensuring all staff receive appropriate safeguarding and child protection training.

Managing Referrals: Making referrals to relevant agencies, including children’s social care and the police when necessary.

Liaison: Acting as a source of support, advice, and expertise for all staff on child protection and safeguarding matters.

Record Keeping: Maintaining detailed, accurate, and secure written records of concerns and referrals.

Awareness Raising: Ensuring the setting’s child protection policies are known, understood, and used appropriately by all staff.

Information Sharing: Understanding when and how to share information with other agencies to protect children.

    The DSL within the Organisational Structure

    • The DSL should be a senior member of staff, from the leadership team in schools or the manager/owner in early years settings.
    • There should be a deputy DSL to ensure cover for this role at all times.
    • The DSL should have the appropriate status and authority within the setting to carry out the duties of the post.

    Legal Responsibilities and Statutory Requirements

    Key Legislation

    DSLs must be familiar with and operate within the framework of several key pieces of legislation:

    1. Children Act 1989 and 2004: Sets out the duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.
    2. Education Act 2002: Places a duty on schools to safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils.
    3. Childcare Act 2006: Sets out registration requirements for childminders and childcare providers.
    4. Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006: Introduced the vetting and barring scheme for those working with children and vulnerable adults.
    5. Children and Social Work Act 2017: Introduced new local safeguarding arrangements and Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panels.

    Statutory Guidance

    DSLs must have a thorough understanding of key statutory guidance:

    Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018): Outlines how organisations and individuals should work together to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.

    Keeping Children Safe in Education (updated annually): Provides statutory guidance for schools and colleges on safeguarding children and safer recruitment.

    Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Statutory Framework: Sets standards for learning, development, and care for children from birth to five.

      Regulatory Bodies

      DSLs should be aware of and engage with relevant regulatory bodies:

      • Ofsted (Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills)
      • Local Safeguarding Children Partnerships
      • Charity Commission (for charitable organisations)

      Key Qualities and Skills of an Effective DSL

      Essential Qualities

      Trustworthiness: The ability to maintain confidentiality and inspire confidence in staff, children, and families.

      Approachability: Being accessible and open, encouraging staff to come forward with concerns.

      Emotional Resilience: The capacity to deal with distressing and challenging situations.

      Professional Curiosity: The ability to ask probing questions and seek clarification when necessary.

      Objectivity: The ability to remain impartial and make decisions based on evidence.

        Critical Skills

        Communication Skills:

          • Ability to communicate effectively with children, families, and professionals
          • Strong written communication for record-keeping and report writing

          Decision-Making Skills:

            • Ability to make prompt, effective decisions in high-pressure situations
            • Skill in assessing risk and determining appropriate actions

            Leadership Skills:

              • Ability to lead on safeguarding within the organisation
              • Skill in motivating and supporting staff in their safeguarding roles

              Analytical Skills:

                • Ability to analyse complex information from various sources
                • Skill in identifying patterns and potential risks

                Interpersonal Skills:

                  • Ability to build relationships and work collaboratively with various stakeholders
                  • Skill in managing difficult conversations and potential conflicts

                  Continuous Professional Development

                  An effective DSL is committed to ongoing learning and development:

                  • Keeping up-to-date with changes in legislation and guidance
                  • Attending regular DSL training and refresher courses
                  • Engaging in professional networks and forums
                  • Reflecting on practice and seeking opportunities for improvement

                  Conclusion

                  The role of Designated Safeguarding Lead is complex and demanding, requiring a unique combination of knowledge, skills, and personal qualities. Effective DSLs are not only well-versed in safeguarding legislation and procedures but also possess the interpersonal skills to navigate sensitive situations and the leadership ability to foster a culture of safeguarding within their organisation.

                  As we progress through this course, we will delve deeper into each aspect of the DSL role, providing you with the comprehensive knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in this critical position.