APPENDIX D: The role of the Designated Safeguarding Lead
The DSL is the lead person for Safeguarding practice within the organisation. This responsibility must be clearly defined within the job description
The DSL is responsible for:
· advocating the importance of child protection to all involved with the Foundation.
· acting as a first point of contact for the Foundation on issues of child protection for both internal and external enquirers
· receiving and acting upon any reported concerns in accordance with the Foundation Safeguarding Procedures.
· ensuring all staff are familiar with and adhere to the Foundation Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy & Code of Conduct.
· ensuring, in conjunction with the Administrator, that new staff receive a copy of the Foundation Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy & Code of Conduct prior to the course.
· ensuring, in conjunction with the Head of Pastoral Care, that the salient points and procedures of the Foundation Safeguarding Policy & Code of Conduct are outlined in the first staff meeting of the course.
· establish contact with the DSL of the host venue when applicable.
· representing the key link to statutory agencies (Social Care, LADO, Police) during formal investigations.
· providing guidance and advice on the relevant matters to staff.
· ensuring that records are stored securely for the appropriate time period.
· ensuring that, when absent from the course for any significant period, the role of DSL is suitably covered by a deputy DSL
· keeping an up-to-date knowledge and understanding of child protection, including attending appropriate training and safe recruitment training and developing links with local safeguarding agencies so that those systems are well understood.