Our Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for Sport and Leisure training is designed to give safeguarding leads the clarity, skills and confidence they need to recognise concerns early, respond appropriately and help create a culture where children can thrive.
This one-day, evidence-based training course explores:
- core values and principles of effective safeguarding practice
- the latest legislation, guidance and national frameworks
- how to identify safeguarding concerns — from poor practice to abuse
- lower‑level concerns and organisational culture
- roles and responsibilities of all designated roles in your organisation
- roles of statutory agencies and multi‑agency processes
- defensible decision‑making and effective record keeping
- creating safer cultures, stronger systems and empowered young voices
Participants learn from interactive quizzes, scenario case studies, experts in safeguarding in sport, and gain practical tools to help DSLs recognise, respond to and prevent safeguarding concerns.
You will leave feeling informed, supported and equipped to lead safeguarding across your organisation.
To learn more and book your place at our next training course, visit our training pages.
FAQs
What training do you need to be a DSL/DSO in sport?
Although there is no legal training requirements for DSLs in sport, DSLs play a crucial leadership role in keeping children safe in sport. We recommend gaining a deep understanding of safeguarding risks, decision‑making, reporting pathways and how to create a safer culture, enabling you to act early, confidently and appropriately.
Some basic safeguarding training is helpful before completing a DSL training course. Something like the NSPCC Learning elearning course Safeguarding in Sport is suitable. The DSL training builds understanding from the ground up while also challenging experienced DSLs to reflect, rethink and strengthen their practice.
Many DSLs have previous knowledge and experience from education, social work or community sectors, but we always recommend completing sport-specific DSL training.
How often does DSL/DSO training need to be done?
We recommend this training is completed every 2-3 years or sooner if there are significant legislation updates, with refresher training and specialist topics completed throughout your role as a DSL. Specialist topics could include online safety, safer recruitment and bullying.
Can any member of staff be a DSL?
Safeguarding in sport is a team effort and it's everyone's role to be safeguarding aware. However, it's good if the DSL role is a senior position within an organisation. This role requires the DSL to have the resources, capacity, and authority to act and influence others within the organisation.
While some organisations may have multiple DSLs or a safeguarding team, the DSL must be available and have the capacity to manage safeguarding concerns. It is not advisable for the DSL to be the most senior person in the organisation, as this can create problems with oversight and escalation if necessary.
Is the training recognised by NGBs?
Yes. All NGBs recognised by a UK Council recommend that their organisation meet the NSPCC Standards, and this training course will help DSLs understand their role and responsibilities.