Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) (VOLUNTEER ROLE)

Volunteer Role: Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

SUNSHINE Charity (London)

We created SUNSHINE to tackle the loneliness problem head-on. Our mission is simple: to bring people together, spread joy and community spirit, and deliver services and support to those living with loneliness. We do this by:

• Fostering Connections: We create safe and welcoming spaces where people can meet, chat, and form genuine friendships.

• Enhancing Wellbeing: Our activities are designed to be fun and engaging, lifting spirits and promoting a positive outlook.

• Transforming Lives: Every interaction, no matter how small, has the power to make a huge difference in someone's day, and ultimately, their life.

Our Vision

A world where everyone feels connected, valued, and a part of a vibrant, compassionate community.

Our Values

• Joy: We believe in the power of happiness to change lives.

• Connection: We create bridges, not walls.

• Community: We are a family, united by a shared mission.

• Empathy: We listen, we understand, and we care.

​Commitment: Approximately 4-6 hours per month (flexible, but must be available for urgent consultation regarding disclosures or incidents).

Location: Primarily remote/home-based, with regular attendance required at programme sessions and team meetings in London.

Reports To: Charity Director/Board of Trustees.

Role Purpose

The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is the point of expertise and authority for safeguarding within SUNSHINE. This individual is responsible for ensuring the charity meets its legal and moral obligations to protect all vulnerable adults who interact with SUNSHINE, and for managing all disclosures and concerns according to best practice and regulatory guidelines.

Key Responsibilities

1. Policy and Compliance Leadership:

• Lead the regular review and update of the SUNSHINE Safeguarding Policy and Volunteer Code of Conduct to ensure they meet current legal requirements and best practice in England.

• Advise the Board of Trustees and the Charity Director on safeguarding risks, compliance issues, and necessary training requirements.

• Maintain oversight of the charity’s system for securing and renewing DBS checks for all relevant volunteers and staff.

2. Managing Concerns and Referrals:

• Act as the first point of contact and recipient for all safeguarding disclosures, concerns, or allegations reported by volunteers, staff, or participants.

• Manage and accurately document all safeguarding incidents in line with the charity’s reporting procedures.

• Make timely, necessary referrals to statutory agencies (e.g., local authority social services, police) as required, and act as the liaison during any subsequent investigation.

• Ensure strict confidentiality is maintained throughout the safeguarding process, only sharing information on a strict "need-to-know" basis.

3. Training and Support:

• Ensure all new volunteers and staff receive comprehensive Safeguarding Induction Training prior to engagement.

• Oversee the provision of regular, refresher safeguarding training and provide guidance to the Programme Manager and Volunteer Coordinator on boundaries and challenging participant behaviour.

• Be available to provide immediate support and debriefing to volunteers who have dealt with a disclosure or incident.

Person Specification

Essential Experience and Skills:

• DSL Certification/Training: Must hold or be willing to immediately obtain and maintain formal, current Designated Safeguarding Lead training.

• Expertise: Substantial proven experience (paid or voluntary) in a dedicated safeguarding role, preferably within a charity, health, or social care setting in the UK.

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• Knowledge: Deep working knowledge of safeguarding legislation and multi-agency procedures relevant to vulnerable adults in London.

• Integrity and Judgement: High level of professional integrity, emotional resilience, and the ability to make difficult, legally-sound decisions quickly under pressure.

• Communication: Exceptional listening skills and ability to communicate sensitive information clearly and discretely to appropriate internal and external bodies.

Next Steps to Apply

This is a critical, high-responsibility role. Candidates must submit their CV and a covering letter detailing their safeguarding experience, specific training credentials, and knowledge of UK safeguarding legislation.

SUNSHINE

Loneliness Charity in London

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