Safeguarding in schools explained — duties, DSL and when to refer

Safeguarding in the context of UK education refers to the actions taken by schools to protect children from abuse, neglect, harm and exploitation. It is governed primarily by 'Keeping Children Safe in Education' (KCSIE), updated annually by the Department for Education.

Key roles

• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): a senior member of staff with specific safeguarding training who coordinates all safeguarding activity in the school
• All staff: required to complete safeguarding training and to report any concerns to the DSL immediately — not investigate themselves

When to refer

Any observation or disclosure that raises concern about a child's safety or welfare must be reported to the DSL on the same day. Staff should never promise confidentiality to a child disclosing abuse. The threshold for referral is 'if you have concerns' — not 'if you are certain'.