Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Level 3

The IIFAL Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Level 3 course gives you the knowledge, skills and confidence to lead safeguarding in any organisation that works with children, young people or adults at risk. It is designed for current and aspiring DSLs, deputy DSLs and safeguarding leads.

What you will learn

• The statutory role and responsibilities of the DSL
• Key law and guidance, including the Care Act 2014, the Mental Capacity Act 2005, the Children Acts 1989 and 2004, Working Together to Safeguard Children (2026) and Keeping Children Safe in Education (2026)
• Types and signs of abuse, neglect and exploitation, including child-on-child abuse, online harm, county lines, radicalisation and FGM
• Responding to disclosures and sharing information lawfully
• Assessing risk and making, following up and challenging referrals
• Keeping accurate, secure records and transferring files correctly
• Managing allegations against staff, safer recruitment and leading a strong safeguarding culture

How the course works

Four modules combine clear lessons, real-life case studies, branching scenarios, drag-and-drop tasks, flip cards and knowledge checks with instant feedback. The course ends with an automatically marked final assessment (70% to pass). There are no written assignments to wait for. Everything can be completed online at your own pace.

Please note: this is a CPD course based on guidance for England. On completion you receive an IIFAL certificate of completion; it is not an Ofqual-regulated qualification. DSL training should be refreshed at least every two years.