What is level 2 safeguarding training?
Safeguarding training (also referred to as child protection) is a legal requirement for many people who come into contact with children, young adults or adults at risk. Safeguarding training helps individuals keep these vulnerable people safe, as well as giving them the knowledge and skills to identify signs of harm and maltreatment and effectively intervene if deemed necessary.
Safeguarding and child protection: What is the difference?
While often used interchangeably, ‘safeguarding’ and ‘child protection’ have distinct meanings. Safeguarding is a broad term encompassing the overall welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and help protect them from harm. On the other hand, child protection is a subset of safeguarding that specifically addresses situations where vulnerable individuals have suffered or are at risk of suffering harm due to abuse, neglect or exploitation.
Safeguarding Training Levels in Healthcare
While many sectors have moved away from the ‘levels’ system of safeguarding training, the healthcare sector still uses it. The framework from the Royal Colleges and other professional bodies titled ‘Safeguarding Children and Young People: Roles and Competencies for Healthcare Staff’ describes the different levels that are in use and how they relate to different occupational groups and specific roles when it comes to safeguarding training.
- Level 1: Mandated for all healthcare staff, this level offers core competencies and foundational safeguarding knowledge.
- Level 2: Designed for healthcare workers in clinical roles or non-clinical staff with a more in-depth involvement with vulnerable groups, this level builds upon Level 1, providing a more detailed understanding of safeguarding principles and processes.
- Levels 3, 4 and 5: Aimed at healthcare professionals who have a great involvement with children, such as GPs or child health specialists, these levels require more specialised training.
Safeguarding in other sectors
Most other sectors have phased out the ‘levels’ classification in recent years. Safeguarding and child protection still covers the core content previously included in Levels 1 and 2, focusing on recognising signs of abuse and neglect and understanding safeguarding legislation. Those often requiring this knowledge span professions like teachers, sports coaches, care home staff, and others in social and community roles. Level 3 safeguarding training, historically, is tailored for professionals with safeguarding lead responsibilities within their organisations.
Traditional Level 2 Safeguarding Training Overview:
- Roles & Responsibilities: An introduction to duties when working with vulnerable groups.
- Understanding Neglect & Abuse: A deeper look into various types of harm and foundational safeguarding knowledge.
- Role Specifics: Clarification on the role of a professional in safeguarding scenarios, including reporting mechanisms.
- Effective Communication: Emphasis on confidentiality, fostering a culture of open communication and handling sensitive information adeptly.
- Assessment: A final evaluation to gauge comprehension and retention of the course material.
- Legislation Insight: A brief overview of the UK’s safeguarding legislation.
Safeguarding training equips professionals, volunteers and workers with the tools to protect vulnerable individuals. But remember if you are unsure which safeguarding training course you should take, please consult with relevant governing bodies or organisations to ensure your training aligns with the requirements of your role.
Interested in our safeguarding training?
We offer safeguarding training courses designed to equip individuals with the essential knowledge and skills needed to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals, particularly children.
Contact our friendly customer support team who are always ready to discuss your safeguarding training options.
