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Safe Child Guide
Supply Teacher Safeguarding Quick Reference Card
Free resource from safechildguide.com
A single-page reference card designed to be printed double-sided and laminated for use by supply and temporary teachers. Covers: who the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is and how to contact them, the school's reporting procedure, how to respond to a disclosure (listen, reassure, record, refer), what not to do (do not promise confidentiality, do not investigate), and key national contacts including CEOP, NSPCC, and Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO). Space is provided to add the school's specific DSL name and extension number.
Suitable for: teachers
Age range:
Supply Teacher Safeguarding Quick Reference Card
This card must be completed by the school and given to every supply or cover teacher at the start of each day. Keep it with you throughout the day.
Today's DSL
DSL name: ________________________________________
Contact number / room: ________________________________________
Deputy DSL (if DSL unavailable): ________________________________________
Headteacher: ________________________________________
Safeguarding Reporting Procedure
Step 1: If a child discloses or you observe a concern — listen, do not investigate
Step 2: Do not promise confidentiality. Say: “I will need to share this with someone who can help.”
Step 3: Report to the DSL immediately — do not wait until the end of the day
Step 4: Record what was said or observed in writing as soon as possible, using the child's exact words
Key Signs to Look For
Unexplained bruising, marks, or injuries
Child appears frightened, withdrawn, or unusually distressed
Child makes comments suggesting abuse or neglect at home
Child discloses something concerning about an adult or another person
What NOT to Do
Do NOT promise to keep secrets
Do NOT ask leading questions ("Did he hit you?") — use open questions only
Do NOT contact parents yourself about a safeguarding concern
Do NOT delay — report to the DSL the same day
Do NOT share concerns with other staff before speaking to the DSL
Emergency Numbers
Emergency: 999 Non-emergency police: 101
NSPCC (professionals): 0808 800 5000
CEOP (online abuse): ceop.police.uk
Printed from safechildguide.com — Free child safety resources
Last reviewed: 2026-04-15