Designated Safeguarding Lead – SEMH Specialist

About the role

The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) will provide strategic leadership for safeguarding and child protection across two specialist SEMH education settings in South West London. Reporting to senior leadership, the DSL will ensure compliance with statutory guidance, promote a culture of safety, and work closely with families and external agencies to achieve the best outcomes for vulnerable learners.

Key responsibilities

• Lead safeguarding and child protection across both education sites.
• Manage complex cases, including Child Protection, Child in Need, Early Help, Prevent and LADO referrals.
• Line‑manage Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads and safeguarding staff.
• Develop and maintain effective partnerships with families, local authorities and external professionals.
• Monitor safeguarding, attendance, behaviour and wellbeing data to drive continuous improvement.
• Promote a strong safeguarding culture where every child's welfare is paramount.

Required profile

• Significant experience as a Designated Safeguarding Lead or Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead within an educational setting.
• Excellent knowledge of safeguarding legislation and statutory guidance (e.g., Keeping Children Safe in Education).
• Proven ability to manage complex child protection cases and work with multi‑agency partners.
• Strong leadership, organisational and communication skills.
• Resilience, professionalism and compassion for supporting vulnerable children and young people.
• Commitment to improving outcomes for children with SEND and SEMH.

Required skills

What we offer

• Term‑time contract (36 hours per week) with competitive salary aligned to Inner London SO4 points 41‑44 (£51,223 – £54,359 per year).
• Opportunity to work within a multidisciplinary team dedicated to SEMH education.
• Professional development and support in a specialist safeguarding role.