A Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) carries one of the most critical roles in any school, childcare setting, or youth-focused organisation. When a child reveals abuse, the DSL becomes the first line of protection—a responsibility that requires calmness, competence, and deep understanding of safeguarding procedures. Handling disclosures poorly can discourage children from speaking up again, but handling them correctly can be life-saving. That is why many professionals choose to enhance their safeguarding skills through structured learning such as the Designated Safeguarding Lead Training Course. This article explains how DSLs should respond to disclosures with professionalism, empathy, and legal accuracy.

Creating a Safe Environment for Disclosure

Children rarely disclose abuse directly; it often comes out gradually, subtly, or in a moment of emotional vulnerability. A DSL must ensure that the child feels safe, heard, and supported. This means creating a private, calm, and non-threatening environment where the child has the freedom to talk without fear of judgment. The DSL should speak softly, allow the child time, and avoid interruptions.
It is essential that the DSL avoids showing shock, anger, or disbelief, as these reactions can make the child withdraw or feel responsible. The role here is not to investigate but to receive the information appropriately. Professionals trained through the Designated Safeguarding Lead Training Course learn how to use body language and tone that reassure the child while maintaining professional boundaries.

Listening Actively and Without Leading Questions

When a child begins to disclose abuse, listening becomes the most powerful tool. The DSL must give the child full attention, using active listening techniques such as nodding, maintaining eye contact, and responding with gentle affirmations. They should avoid interrupting or rushing the child, allowing them to share in their own words and at their own pace.
One of the biggest mistakes DSLs can make is asking leading or suggestive questions. For example, asking, “Did your parent hit you?” is inappropriate because it influences the child’s response. Instead, open and neutral prompts like “Can you tell me what happened?” or “How did that make you feel?” maintain the integrity of the disclosure. Ensuring that the child’s voice remains authentic is not only ethical but also vital for any future investigation. These interviewing principles are often emphasised in professional safeguarding courses like the Designated Safeguarding Lead Training Course.

Reassuring the Child and Explaining the Limits of Confidentiality

Many children worry about getting themselves—or others—into trouble when they disclose abuse. They may fear consequences, blame, or not being believed. A DSL must reassure the child that they did the right thing by speaking up and that they are not at fault for what has happened.
However, reassurance should never cross into making false promises. A DSL must clearly and gently explain that they cannot keep the disclosure a secret, especially if the child is in danger. They should explain confidentiality in simple, age-appropriate language: “I’m really glad you told me. I need to share this with people who can help keep you safe.” This conversation builds trust while ensuring the child understands the safeguarding process. Clear, honest communication like this is a core principle taught in the Designated Safeguarding Lead Training Course.

Recording the Disclosure Accurately and Objectively

Once the child has finished speaking, the DSL should record the disclosure as soon as possible. Accuracy and objectivity are essential. Notes should include the date, time, location, and the child’s exact words—not interpretations or assumptions. The DSL must avoid adding personal opinions or emotional descriptions, as these can compromise the clarity of the report.
Details such as the child’s behaviour, tone, or physical indicators can be included, but only if observed directly. Speculation must be avoided completely. The goal is to provide a factual, reliable record that external agencies can use without confusion. A well-taken safeguarding record can significantly influence the speed and effectiveness of follow-up actions. Proper recording techniques are a major topic in the Designated Safeguarding Lead Training Course, where learners gain practical skills in documentation and report writing.

Taking Immediate Safeguarding Action

After a disclosure, the DSL must assess whether the child is in immediate danger. If so, urgent actions may be required, such as contacting emergency services or ensuring the child is not returned to a harmful environment. For non-emergency cases, the DSL should follow their organisation’s safeguarding policies by reporting the concern to local safeguarding partners or children’s social care.
The DSL’s responsibility does not end with reporting. They must continue monitoring the child’s well-being, ensuring support is available, and maintaining communication with authorities as needed. Every action must prioritise the child’s safety and emotional stability. Decision-making in these situations must be guided by training, experience, and legal safeguarding obligations—areas thoroughly explored in the Designated Safeguarding Lead Training Course.

Remaining Professional and Reflective Throughout the Process

Handling disclosures can be emotionally challenging for any safeguarding professional. It is important for the DSL to remain calm, composed, and focused. They must avoid making judgments, confronting alleged abusers, or attempting to investigate themselves. Instead, they should rely on established safeguarding procedures and external agencies who are legally responsible for conducting investigations.
After the process, the DSL should reflect on their handling of the disclosure. Reflection helps strengthen professional practice, ensuring continuous improvement in safeguarding work. If needed, supervision or support from senior safeguarding staff can help process the emotional impact. Many professionals choose ongoing learning opportunities—such as the Designated Safeguarding Lead Training Course>—to stay updated with modern safeguarding legislation, best practices, and child protection strategies.