Safeguarding Support Officer Level 3

Course Overview

Safeguarding Support Officers play a key role in protecting individuals’ health, wellbeing and human rights. They support organisations in recognising, responding to and preventing harm, abuse and neglect.

Who Is This For?

This apprenticeship is ideal if you want to:

  • Work in education, health, housing, charities, justice, or community services.

  • Be the first point of contact for safeguarding concerns.

  • Support designated safeguarding leads in preventing abuse and neglect.

  • Develop skills in risk assessment, multi-agency working and safeguarding best practice.

What You’ll Learn

You’ll gain the knowledge, skills, and behaviours to:

  • Recognise and respond to emerging safeguarding needs.

  • Carry out initial risk assessments and triage concerns.

  • Support referrals and signposting to the right services.

  • Promote preventative safeguarding across organisations.

  • Maintain accurate, secure documentation.

  • Understand legislation, early help strategies and referral pathways.

  • Promote wellbeing, rights and cultural awareness in safeguarding practice.

Typical Job Roles

  • Safeguarding Support Officer

  • Safeguarding Assistant

  • Safeguarding Coordinator

  • Safeguarding Advisor

How You’ll Work

Safeguarding Support Officers:

  • Act as the first point of contact for safeguarding concerns.

  • Conduct initial risk assessments and escalate when needed.

  • Work with staff, volunteers, service users, and the public.

  • Liaise with external agencies such as police, social care, and health providers.

  • Support colleagues to recognise early signs of abuse and ask the right questions.

  • Keep thorough, secure records in line with policies and law.

Key Skills You’ll Develop

  • Risk assessment and triage

  • Safeguarding procedures and referral pathways

  • Multi-agency working

  • Professional curiosity and questioning

  • Early intervention strategies

  • Confidentiality and information governance

Why Choose This Course?

Safeguarding Support Officers are essential across every sector — from schools and hospitals to housing providers, charities and sports organisations. This apprenticeship prepares you to make a direct impact by protecting the vulnerable and ensuring people live free from harm, abuse and neglect.

Apprenticeship Details

  • Level: 3

  • Duration: 18 months training + 3 months EPA

  • Entry requirements: English and Maths (to be completed if not already achieved)

  • Assessment: Presentation with questions, professional discussion underpinned by portfolio

  • Grading: Fail, Pass, Merit, Distinction