Safeguarding support officer

Support the delivery of safeguarding services and protect vulnerable individuals

As a safeguarding support officer apprentice, you’ll play a vital role in helping to plan, coordinate, and carry out safeguarding procedures to protect children, young people, and adults at risk. Under the guidance of a designated safeguarding lead, you’ll assist with identifying concerns, managing information, and supporting joint work across different organisations.

You’ll gain knowledge of safeguarding laws, local and national policies, and early intervention practices. Day to day, you’ll assess initial risks, triage referrals, support safeguarding meetings, and help deliver awareness training. You’ll also manage secure records and share information in line with data protection rules.

Strong communication skills, empathy, and professionalism are key. You’ll work closely with internal teams and external bodies such as social services, schools, and healthcare providers to ensure safeguarding issues are handled effectively.

On completion, you could progress to roles such as designated safeguarding lead, child protection officer, or welfare coordinator. With experience, you could specialise in complex safeguarding or support inspection and compliance work.

Duration: 18 months
Relevant school subjects: Health & social care, psychology, English
Entry requirements: Enhanced DBS check; Level 2 English and maths (GCSE grade 4/C or equivalent, or British Sign Language); aged 18 or over; other requirements may depend on the employer
Achievement upon completion: Level 3 (Advanced) – equivalent to two A-levels
Potential salary upon completion: £20,000–£28,000 depending on role and location

Find out more: www.apprenticeshipguide.co.uk