Health

The Roles of a Designated Safeguarding Lead and How to Become One

Published by Lily James on March 5, 2025

A Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of children within schools and organizations.

As the primary contact for safeguarding concerns, the DSL is responsible for managing child protection policies, reporting abuse, and supporting staff with training and advice.

This crucial role ensures that children are protected and supported, with the DSL coordinating with external agencies when needed.

Becoming a DSL requires hard work, training, and having the right skills, but the role is vital for making sure children are safe. As times change, the role of the DSL becomes even more important.

Understanding what the DSL does, we can all help create safer places for those who need it most. Safeguarding is a shared responsibility, and the DSL is there to guide us.

In this blog, we will explore the responsibilities, training requirements, and essential skills needed to become a DSL, highlighting the importance of this role in safeguarding children.

Who is a Designated Safeguarding Lead?

A Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is a senior staff member in charge of child protection and safety in schools or colleges. They are the main person staff go to for advice about safeguarding issues.

DSLs make sure the school’s child protection rules are followed, and they manage reports of suspected abuse to the right authorities. They also help staff by providing training and raising awareness about safeguarding.

The DSL ensures there is always someone who knows how to handle child protection issues and work with other organizations if needed. Their role is important for keeping children safe and supported in the school or organization.

Role of a Designated Safeguarding Lead

The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is an important person who helps protect children in schools and organizations.

Their job includes:

Managing referrals: The DSL makes sure that if there is suspected abuse, it gets reported to the right authorities and helps staff with the process.
Being the main contact: The DSL is the go-to person for staff to talk about any safeguarding concerns and give advice.
Raising awareness: The DSL works with leaders to make sure everyone knows the child protection rules and that they are updated each year.
Training and development: The DSL makes sure all staff get the right training and are kept updated on child protection rules.

The DSL also keeps records of any concerns, works with other agencies, and makes sure there is a safe and supportive environment for children.

How to Become a Designated Safeguarding Lead for Your Organization

To become a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) in your organization:

Complete Level 3 safeguarding training, which is the standard requirement for the role.
Take a specific DSL training course covering topics like safeguarding laws, safer recruitment, and identifying abuse.
Keep your safeguarding knowledge up to date, including understanding current legislation and guidance.
Develop leadership and organizational skills, as the role involves managing difficult situations and promoting a culture of safeguarding.
Be prepared to take on responsibilities such as being the primary contact for safeguarding concerns and managing referrals.
Consider your ability to handle the time and responsibilities that come with the role.
Commit to ongoing training and development to stay current with evolving practices and laws.
Familiarize yourself with your organization’s safeguarding policies and procedures.
While there’s no regulated qualification required, relevant experience and personal qualities are beneficial.

How long does DSL training usually take?

The duration of Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) training varies depending on the format and provider:

Face-to-face training courses usually last 4-6 hours or one full day.
Online courses generally take 2-3 hours.
Some comprehensive DSL training programs may last for two days.
E-learning options are flexible, taking about 1-2 hours, and can be paused and resumed as needed.
Certain providers offer courses that take approximately 3 hours to complete.

The length of training can depend on factors such as prior knowledge, class interaction, and the content covered. DSLs are typically required to refresh their training every two years to stay updated on best practices and legislation.

Skills and Experience Required for DSL Roles

To become a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) in your organization, you typically need the following skills and experience:

Skills:

Strong communication (both written and verbal)
Active listening and empathy
Problem-solving and decision-making
Leadership and team management
Building relationships with staff and external agencies
High emotional intelligence
A mindset for continuous learning and reflection

Experience:

Current knowledge of safeguarding practices
Familiarity with safeguarding laws and guidance
Experience working with other agencies (childcare, health, social care)
Knowledge of safeguarding policies and procedures
Handling sensitive information confidentially
Previous involvement in managing safeguarding cases
Experience in training or coordinating staff

Additional Requirements:

Level 3 safeguarding training (refreshed every two years).
Knowledge of early help and statutory interventions
Understanding of data protection and information sharing
Familiarity with Prevent duty and protecting children from radicalization risks

While not always required, many organizations prefer DSLs to have:

Professional qualifications in social services, education, or healthcare
Leadership experience within the organization
Specific training in safer recruitment and managing staff allegations