Can a Deputy DSL make a referral to children's social care without the DSL?

Yes. KCSIE is clear that anyone can make a referral, and a trained Deputy DSL has full authority to do so when the DSL is unavailable. Waiting for the DSL to return is not an acceptable reason to delay a referral where there is a risk of significant harm.

Do Deputy DSLs need the same training as the DSL?

Yes. KCSIE 2025 requires that Deputy DSLs are trained to the same standard as the DSL. This includes the two-yearly formal training and ongoing knowledge updates at least annually, including specific online safety updates.

training material

Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead Day-to-Day Checklist

A practical day-to-day checklist for Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads covering training, record-keeping, supporting the DSL, and handover protocols.

Newly appointed and established Deputy DSLs in primary, secondary, and special schools45 minutes to read; ongoing reference

A Deputy DSL is not a junior version of the DSL — they must be trained to the same standard under KCSIE 2025 and able to act with full authority in the DSL's absence. This checklist sets out what a Deputy DSL needs to know and do day to day, including the safeguarding training cycle, record-keeping standards on systems such as CPOMS or MyConcern, how to support (rather than shadow) the DSL during a live referral, and the handover protocols required when the DSL is off site, on leave, or in a meeting that cannot be interrupted.