Designated safeguarding lead (DSL) role

A designated safeguarding lead is a school staff member that supports pupils, staff, parents and external professionals by providing guidance and support on issues, procedures and training. Managing safeguarding concerns in schools and in the local community, the DSL works around the clock with the support of teachers and pastoral or safeguarding team to protect vulnerable individuals from harm, abuse and neglect.

The main responsibility of a designated safeguarding lead is to manage mandatory procedures, policies, training and concerns with the safeguarding team. A DSL will:

• respond to any new concerns each day using a safeguarding software
• meet with vulnerable pupils to discuss any issues
• train staff on the latest procedures and ensure policies are kept up-to-date

Pupil wellbeing and child protection are among the top priorities for a DSL and they will regularly meet with individuals both in schools and outside of school to discuss behaviour and any stress or anxiety the pupil has. This can extend to speaking with parents and liaising with local authorities or external professionals (e.g. social care or the police) about how to provide the best support and early interventions they can make. Doing this will ensure safety procedures are followed to protect the wellbeing of students and teachers. Having a DSL to check the right policies and procedures are being followed in schools is crucial for safeguarding children and young people.

A typical day

While a DSL will have different tasks each day of the week, a typical day would involve meeting with the safeguarding team to discuss current concerns, issues and their schedule. Then their day will be filled with managing incidents, meeting with pupils and teachers, reviewing policies on an ad-hoc basis and then planning for the next day. Often, they could be called out to respond to emergencies outside of the typical 9-5 working time. Here is a timeline below showcasing the typical day of a DSL. This doesn’t include any teaching time if their DSL role is in addition to teaching a class.

Here are some challenges that a designated safeguarding lead may face:

Challenges and rewards

There are many challenges that a designated safeguarding lead will face in the role. This might include; handling difficult cases, dealing with stressful situations and managing an extensive workload. Whether dealing with one secondary school or a MAT; there can be a diverse range of cases to deal with on an ongoing basis. This can involve dealing with difficult students and disgruntled parents but with the right mentality, procedures and safeguarding team around you, the role can be very rewarding in helping vulnerable pupils.

How to become a designated safeguarding lead

You can become a designated safeguarding lead through 2 routes once you have the relevant BA (Hons) degree and PGCE course qualifications. The first route is by applying for the role directly and undergoing specific safeguarding training. Some schools and MATs may ask for a minimum of 2-3 years’ experience in a safeguarding role beforehand. The second route is by becoming a deputy head or part of the Senior Leadership Team as some schools and MATs add the DSL role, as this often forms part of the job description.

Designated safeguarding lead (DSL) jobs

Looking for the right safeguarding job for you? See our current Designated Safeguarding Lead jobs available to apply for today.

Search jobs

Back to Careers Advice Hub