The role of the designated safeguarding lead is vital in safeguarding children’s wellbeing and carries a lot of responsibility with it. The very latest legislation and guidance will be analysed, with practical advice in appropriate and sensitive implementation of all aspects of this key role.

• Understand your role as a delegated safeguarding lead
• Review key legislation and the relevant sections for schools
• identify what to include in your child protection policy
• Establish where to seek guidance and support
• Handle allegations and complaints

Sessions

Key legislation and statutory guidance

• An overview of the changing emphasis in child protection: from a compliance culture to a school that makes a difference
• Understand the key legislation and guidance for schools in working with other agencies
• An analysis of the latest changes for schools and where to find key information

The role of the designated safeguarding lead

• The referral process in full: initial decisions, how to gain support and possible outcomes
• Understand the legislation and the training requirements for your staff and the resources needed
• Raising community awareness of child protection including the school policy, transfer procedures and keeping parents informed

Disclosures and consequences

• Guidance for leaders and staff in handling disclosures effectively and sensitively
• Identifying the barriers to disclosure and how they might be overcome
• The procedures for dealing with allegations against members of staff

The role in context

• An opportunity to reflect on your own needs in relation to the role and the school’s needs
• Ensuring school documentation is suitable and effective
• Planning immediate actions, longer term requirements and resource needs