Top 10 Tasks for Designated Safeguarding Leads in Schools for November and December

As Designated Safeguarding Leads in Schools, you play a critical role in maintaining the safety and well-being of children, it’s crucial to stay proactive and vigilant. November and December marks a pivotal time in the academic calendar, and DSLs should focus on various tasks to ensure a secure and nurturing environment. In this blog, we will explore 10 key tasks for DSLs to undertake during this time.

1. Complete any tasks that you have missed from our previous Designated Safeguarding Leads in Schools top 10 for September and October blog lists.
2. Review Safeguarding Training Evidence and Identify Gaps: Take stock of the evidence regarding staff’s understanding of safeguarding protocols. Identify any knowledge gaps and plan further training sessions to ensure that all staff members are well-equipped to handle safeguarding issues.
3. Ensure New Staff Members Are Safeguarding Trained: Verify that all new staff members have completed their safeguarding training and induction. It’s essential that everyone in the school community is aware of and committed to the safeguarding policies and practices.
4. Engage with Parents and Carers: Foster open communication with parents and carers. Provide regular updates on safeguarding policies, practices, and available resources. A collaborative approach between the school and parents enhances the overall safety net for children. See our previous blog to help with this.
5. Schedule a Safeguarding Audit if you still have not done this: a Safeguarding Audit evaluates the effectiveness of your safeguarding measures. If you need assistance with this process, please do check out our external safeguarding audit.
6. Record Incidents Relating to child-on-child sexual violence and sexual harassment: Enhance record-keeping specifically for incidents and disclosures related to child-on-child sexual violence and sexual harassment. Ensure that these sensitive cases are documented appropriately, maintaining confidentiality while addressing the needs of the affected individuals.
7. Coordinate with Educational Visits Coordinator: Meet with the EVC to establish a clear system for passing on relevant pastoral and safeguarding information to trip leaders throughout the year. A comprehensive approach ensures that children’s safety is a priority even during off-site activities.
8. Complete Safeguarding Report for Governors’ Committee: Prepare and submit the safeguarding report for the governors’ safeguarding committee. Actively participate in the governors’ safeguarding meetings to provide insights, updates, and recommendations for continuous improvement in safeguarding measures.
9. Verify Receipt of Safeguarding Files for New Students: Ensure that all safeguarding files for children who recently joined the school are received. Access previous history for each child and take necessary actions based on the information provided. Update the safeguarding action plan accordingly.
10. Update the Safeguarding Action Plan: Regularly review and update the safeguarding action plan, incorporating insights from recent incidents and training sessions. This dynamic approach ensures that the school’s safeguarding measures remain responsive and effective.

By diligently addressing these 10 tasks in November and December, Designated Safeguarding Leads can contribute significantly to the creation of a safe and nurturing environment for all children in the school community. Continuous vigilance and proactive measures are key to fostering a secure educational environment.