Child Safeguarding Awareness Training

Who is the DSL?

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The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for your camp is:
Gyongyi Domokos
CEO, The Shades of the Life Oxford
Email: gyongyidomokos@theshadesofthelife.com
Phone: +44/(0)7380 410465

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Gyongyi Domokos has completed advanced safeguarding training and is responsible for leading the safeguarding strategy at our organisation. She is the first point of contact for any concerns or disclosures related to child protection and welfare.

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Role of the Designated Safeguarding Lead

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The DSL holds a critical role in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all children attending the programme. Their key responsibilities include:

• Receiving and assessing safeguarding concerns from staff, children, parents or other stakeholders

• Keeping confidential and secure records of concerns and actions

• Making referrals to external agencies when necessary, including:

  • MASH (Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub – Oxfordshire)

  • LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer – in cases of allegations against staff)

• Supporting and training staff and volunteers on safeguarding matters

• Ensuring compliance with all relevant safeguarding legislation and policies

• Reviewing and updating safeguarding procedures annually or when changes occur

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Understanding the Safeguarding System in Oxfordshire

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Oxfordshire County Council operates a Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) which handles safeguarding referrals. Our organisation follows Oxfordshire’s Safeguarding Children Board procedures. These are multi-agency and statutory, requiring close cooperation with Children's Social Care, health services, police, and education professionals.

If you need to make a direct referral or seek guidance outside of the camp’s internal system, you can contact:

• NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000

• Oxfordshire MASH: 0345 050 7666

• In case of immediate danger: Call 999

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What You Should Do if You Have a Concern

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Whether you suspect abuse, a child discloses something to you, or you simply feel uneasy, you have a duty to act.

"Safeguarding is about acting early — even if you're unsure."

Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Do not delay – speak directly and immediately to Gyongyi Domokos, the DSL.

2. Do not speak to others about it, including colleagues or the child’s friends or parents.

3. Do not attempt to investigate the matter yourself.

4. Use the official reporting form – a downloadable PDF is available from our staff portal.

5. Record everything clearly and factually – what was seen, heard, said, dates, times, and actions taken.

6. Preserve confidentiality at all stages.

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Key Principles from Child Safeguarding Awareness Training

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• Every concern counts: No matter how small or vague, your report could be the missing piece in a much larger picture.

• Never promise confidentiality to a child. Instead, explain that you may need to share information to keep them safe.

• If in doubt – report: Not acting can have serious consequences, as seen in tragic cases like Victoria Climbié, Baby P, and others.

• The child’s welfare is the paramount concern – even above organisational reputation or relationships with parents.

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What Happens After a Report?

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• The DSL will assess the concern and, if necessary, refer it to Children’s Social Care, MASH, or the police.

• The referral will include all relevant information (names, observations, concerns, actions taken).

• If needed, further assessments will be carried out by social services or a child protection team.

• You may be asked to contribute further (e.g., written statements or attending child protection meetings).

• If there is no immediate action taken by the authorities, the DSL may recommend Early Help or further internal support.

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When You Should Not Inform Parents or Carers

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You must not inform parents/carers if:

• You believe the child is at immediate or serious risk of harm

• The child may have been sexually abused

• The parent/carer may pose a risk to the child

• The child may be a victim of fabricated or induced illness

• Doing so may jeopardise a police investigation

Always consult the DSL before approaching families.

 

Safeguarding and Confidentiality

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Safeguarding overrides normal confidentiality procedures. You must not withhold a concern out of fear of breaking confidentiality. If you work with children or families, it is your legal and moral duty to protect the child first.

However, all information must be treated as strictly confidential:

• Keep written records in a secure place.

• Do not discuss cases in public or with unauthorised individuals.

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Examples and Case Studies (Real Names Redacted)

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• Case Study A: A volunteer noticed a child consistently arriving with unwashed clothes and bruises. Though unsure, they reported it. It turned out the child was living in neglect. Early intervention helped the family access social support.

• Case Study B: A child disclosed inappropriate touching by a neighbour during camp. The staff member followed protocol, the police were contacted, and the child was protected.

These examples show that even small observations can lead to significant safeguarding outcomes.

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Support for Staff and Volunteers

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Dealing with disclosures or suspicions can be emotionally challenging. We encourage all staff to:

• Speak to the DSL about your wellbeing and support options

• Use professional counselling services if needed

• Debrief with a senior colleague if emotionally distressed

• Take breaks or adjust duties temporarily if overwhelmed

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Summary – Your Responsibility

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✅ Act immediately
✅ Tell the DSL (Gyongyi Domokos)
✅ Use the correct forms
✅ Never investigate or promise secrecy
✅ Share even vague worries
✅ Keep records securely
✅ Respect confidentiality
✅ Always prioritise the child’s welfare

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