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Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Networks

Who are these for?

These networks are for DSLs, Deputy DSLs /SLT who may make up wider safeguarding teams in education settings.

We encourage every setting to make representation at each round of meetings. 

Why should I engage?

The networks fulfil duties under statutory guidance Keeping Children Safe in Education Part 2 - the management of safeguarding: 

  • To keep up to date with local safeguarding arrangements and provide a mechanism for to engage with the Local Safeguarding Partnership (Keeping Bristol Safe Partnership). 
  • To ensure knowledge and skills are adequately updated (in addition to the requirement to update formal training every 2 years).
  • Provide a chance to develop and share good practice and contribute towards a community of practice.
  • Network with other education settings.
  • Develop working relationships with the local safeguarding advisor and statutory agencies
  • From 2023-24 - the Locality Networks will share and cascade information pertinent to the geographical area from Avon and Somerset Constabulary and Bristol City Council Community Safety teams to assist settings with their contextual safeguarding approaches. 

 

Structure of meetings

These happen every other Bristol term (3 times a year) and last for about 2 and a half hours to allow for colleagues to network.  

Each round will be locality based where colleagues will have an opportunity to network with colleagues from their locality services around issues that affect their geographical area. 


A shorter virtual citywide meeting is available if colleagues cannot attend the locality based meetings. 

 

Standing Agenda

  • News
  • Updates from the Local Safeguarding Partnership
  • Topical Safeguarding issues.
  • Multi-agency updates. 

Each session will allow for professional networking and reflective exercises.

 

DSL Network Materials

Missed a meeting? Don't worry. You can find links to slides and associated materials below. 

Older resources:

Upcoming Events Academic Year 2025-2026

Term 1

30/09/2025 - South

01/10/2025 - East / Central

02/10/2025 - North

07/10/2025 - Virtual

Term 3

03/02/2026 - South

04/02/2026 - Virtual

04/02/2026 - East / Central

05/02/2026 - North

Term 5

05/05/2026 - North

06/05/2026 - East / Central

07/05/2026 - South

14/05/2026 - Virtual

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