Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL)

Attachments: Deputy DSL - JDPS - Oct 26.pdf

University College Birmingham is looking for a proactive and experienced Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) to join our friendly and dedicated safeguarding team, who are part of the Student Support and Wellbeing Directorate. This is a fixed-term post of up to 12 months to provide maternity leave cover, commencing in February 2027.

This is a rewarding opportunity to play a vital role in safeguarding and promoting the welfare of students aged 16+ across our FE college, Sixth Form, University and Apprenticeship programmes.

Reporting directly to the Designated Safeguarding Lead & Head of FE Pastoral Support, you will manage safeguarding concerns effectively and sensitively, providing direct 1:1 support to students while working collaboratively with parents and carers, academic departments and external agencies.

The successful candidate will:

• Respond to safeguarding concerns in a timely and professional manner
• Support and advise staff who raise safeguarding concerns
• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders, including participation in multi-agency meetings
• Make referrals to relevant external organisations where appropriate
• Help ensure UCB maintains a strong culture of safeguarding and student wellbeing

You will have:

• A strong understanding of safeguarding practices for both children and adults
• Knowledge of local and national safeguarding procedures and agencies
• Excellent communication and organisational skills
• The ability to remain calm, professional, and effective when managing sensitive or crisis situations
• A student-centred and compassionate approach

Please take the time to read the Job Description and Person Specification carefully to ensure you meet the weighted criteria before applying.

If you are shortlisted for interview you will be required to complete a short case study immediately prior to your interview which will form part of the assessment process.

This role is full time, fixed term for up to 12 months

Standard Information

UCB is an equal opportunities employer.

University College Birmingham is proud to be TEF rated Silver, with a Good Ofsted rating

UCB has achieved the Investors in Diversity Bronze Award.

You may need to obtain permission to work in the UK if you don’t already have the unrestricted right to work in any role. There are various types of visa which include the right to work. You can check if you need a UK visa using the Government’s online tool and find information about UK visa routes and the eligibility criteria that must be met for each route Work in the UK - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk). All staff are required to prove their right to work in the UK before they start work.

All applicants for employment at the University will be expected to undertake an Enhanced Check with the Disclosure and Barring Service prior to commencement.

All applicants for employment at the University will be expected to demonstrate an understanding of the principles of Safeguarding and the PREVENT agenda in the context of further and higher education