Senior Safeguarding Officer & Deputy DSL

Close date 17/07/2026

Salary

£35,766 - £37,374 per annum, dependant on qualifications and experience.

Package

Generous Employer Pension Contribution

Regular Training & Development

Access to a Health Care Plan

Learning & Development Opportunities

Care to Join Us?

We are looking for a committed and knowledgeable Senior Safeguarding Officer (Deputy DSL) to join our team at our Eastleigh College Campus. This is a key position that supports the Designated Safeguarding Lead in ensuring the welfare, safety, and wellbeing of children and young people, whilst fully supporting the wider Safeguarding team.

You will work closely with staff, families, and external agencies to ensure safeguarding concerns are identified, managed, and escalated appropriately. They will play an important role in strengthening our safeguarding culture and contributing to the development and implementation of effective safeguarding practices.

This is a full time, permanent role, working 37 hours per week across 52 weeks.

Working hours are Monday to Thursday, 8:30am–5:00pm and Friday, 8:30am–4:30pm.

Key Responsibilities

• Work closely alongside the DSL; Supporting the Designated Safeguarding Lead in all aspects of safeguarding and child protection across the group.
• Manage safeguarding concerns; Record, monitor, and respond to concerns in line with statutory guidance and organisational procedures.
• Work with external agencies; Liaise with children’s services, police, health professionals, and other partners where required.
• Advise and guide staff; Provide clear, timely advice to colleagues on safeguarding matters.
• Support training and awareness; Assist in delivering safeguarding training and promoting a strong safeguarding culture.
• Maintain accurate records; Keep confidential, secure, and up‑to‑datesafeguarding documentation.
• Attend key meetings; Participate in safeguarding meetings, case conferences, and multi‑agencydiscussions as
• Support vulnerable pupils; Contribute to attendance, wellbeing, and early‑helpinitiatives for children and young people at risk.
• Promote a safe environment; Help ensure the organisation remains safe, inclusive, and supportive for all

About You

• You will be an organised, empathetic, and resilient professional with experience in safeguarding and working with vulnerable individuals. You will be confident managing sensitive situations and working collaboratively across teams and agencies.
• Level 3 or above trained in safeguarding and is willing to undertake further professional development
• Confident and supportive team player, who will work well with immediate safeguarding colleagues and contribute positively to the wider team.
• Relevant experience working with children, young people, or vulnerable individuals.
• Understands safeguarding legislation and statutory guidance, and can apply it confidently in practice.
• Communicates effectively and demonstrates strong organisational and record‑keeping
• Builds positive relationships with students, families, colleagues, and external partners.
• Handles sensitive situations professionally, showing discretion, empathy, and sound judgement.

Desirable (not Essential)

• A qualification or training in mental health (e.g. Mental Health First Aid or equivalent).
• Knowledge of, or experience working within, local communities and support networks, including understanding of community-based services available to young people and families.

Safeguarding Statement

The College is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate will be required to undergo relevant pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check.

Expected Start Date: Week commencing 17th August 2026

The South Hampshire College Group (SHCG) is a dynamic, purpose driven Further Education organisation with a commitment to Creating Better Futures for learners, employers and communities within South Hampshire and beyond.

We pride ourselves on living our values - Collaborative, Inclusive and Aspirational. We also understand the difference exceptional employees can make to us delivering outstanding results and we are always seeking to attract talent who can add value and who will be proud to be part of our growing organisation.

South Hampshire College Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Our recruitment practices follow safer recruitment guidance, including enhanced DBS checks, online checks, and thorough pre‑employment vetting. We value equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging, and welcome applications from all backgrounds.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.