Many think the role of the Designated Safeguarding Lead is to manage referrals to Children’s Social Care in relation to under 18’s. With this misconception, it is easy to see why many Higher Education Institutions struggle to see how the role would be relevant in their settings. The same is true for those providing education 16-24 year olds as apprentices.

Sadly, there is a grave misunderstanding of the role. Managing referrals is only one part of the role.

Since the Education and Welfare Act (Children) 2021 was given Royal Assent, Keeping Children Safe in Education has applied to all providing statutory education and those providing qualifications gained via apprenticeships.  sets out the role in full in it’s Annex and whilst it is aimed at those working in statutory education, it is a great starting point for any DSL (and must be complied with if you offer apprenticeships).

In higher education institutions, the designated safeguarding lead (DSL) plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and well-being of students and staff. Their responsibilities typically include:

1. Safeguarding Policy and Procedures: The DSL is responsible for developing, implementing, and reviewing safeguarding policies and procedures within the institution. This involves keeping up to date with relevant legislation and guidance, such as child protection laws, adult protection laws, safeguarding frameworks, and local authority requirements.
2. Training and Awareness: The DSL is responsible for providing training and raising awareness among staff and faculty members regarding safeguarding issues. They ensure that staff members are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to identify signs of abuse, neglect, or harm and understand the appropriate reporting procedures.
3. Risk Assessment and Management: The DSL conducts risk assessments to identify potential safeguarding risks within the institution and develops strategies to manage and mitigate those risks. This includes working closely with other departments, such as student services, accommodation, and campus security, to ensure a safe environment for all.
4. Liaison and Collaboration: The DSL acts as a key point of contact and liaison with external agencies, such as local safeguarding boards, child protection services, and law enforcement agencies. They collaborate with these agencies to report concerns, seek advice, and ensure effective communication and cooperation in safeguarding matters.
5. Referrals and Support: The DSL coordinates and manages referrals of safeguarding concerns, whether they involve students or staff members. They ensure that appropriate support and interventions are put in place for individuals affected by safeguarding issues, working closely with relevant support services, counselling services, or external agencies.
6. Record-Keeping and Documentation: The DSL maintains accurate and confidential records of safeguarding concerns, incidents, and actions taken. They ensure that relevant documentation is securely stored and comply with data protection and confidentiality requirements.
7. Monitoring and Review: The DSL monitors the effectiveness of safeguarding measures and regularly reviews policies and procedures to identify areas for improvement. They also contribute to institutional audits and inspections related to safeguarding and support the implementation of recommended changes.
8. Training and Support for DSLs in Departments/Schools: The DSL provides support and guidance to designated safeguarding leads within individual departments or faculties, ensuring they are equipped to handle safeguarding concerns specific to their areas of responsibility.

It’s important to note that the specific roles and responsibilities of the DSL may vary slightly between institutions. However, their primary focus remains the welfare, protection, and safeguarding of students and staff within the higher education setting.

The post of Designated Safeguarding Lead is still a relatively new one for Higher Education. And it is still relatively misunderstood. Even those in a governance role can struggle to understand how a safeguarding strategy fits into the overall governance process.

Why is it so hard to see where the role fits?

The simple answer is there is no statutory safeguarding duty on HE. There is also no simple legislation or guidance setting out how it works in HE. How it operates is different for every HEI as each have their own challenges. courses. wellbeing and welfare provisions etc. The myriad of legislation DSLs in HEIs need to navigate causes the area to be incredibly grey at times too. It is not straightforward.

The grey is stressful and challenging. That is why I established the Safeguarding Leaders Hub and offer supervision to DSLs in HEIs. A critical friend is vital when you are trying to manoeuvre through tricky legislation.

If you’re looking for a starting point download my FREE Safeguarding Compliance Checklist

Download the checklist here

Content Disclaimer

The information contained above is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this blog are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this blog. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this blog. Safeguarding Practitioners Ltd & Kate Flounders disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this blog.