Education / Free editable template

Safeguarding concern decision tree template

A safeguarding decision tree helps staff act quickly and in the right order when they are worried about a child. This example starts with a disclosure or concern, checks for immediate risk, then covers recording in the child's words, telling the designated safeguarding lead and the DSL's threshold decision, with a separate route for concerns about an adult.

This is a planning example, not safeguarding advice. Always follow your school's safeguarding policy, Keeping Children Safe in Education and your local safeguarding partnership's procedures.

Use this template →See the example ↓

No account needed · Opens as your own editable page

Preview the safeguarding concern decision tree

View full-size preview ↗
Safeguarding concern decision tree example showing immediate risk check and 999 route, dsl threshold decision with three outcomes, route for concerns about an adult
Everything in this example is editable. Replace the labels, move the shapes and adapt the layout to your work.

How to use this template

  1. Check for immediate risk

    If a child is at immediate risk of harm, call the police or 999 first, then tell the DSL straight away.

  2. Record and pass it on

    Listen, do not promise secrecy, write down what was said in the child's own words and tell the DSL or deputy the same day.

  3. Show the DSL's decision

    Draw the outcomes the DSL can choose: a referral to children's social care, early help with the family or monitoring in school.

Questions about this template

Can I add our DSL's name and contact details?

Yes. Add names and phone numbers to the box that says tell the DSL or deputy, and change the planning note so it points to your own safeguarding policy.

Do I need an account to use it?

No. Open the template and edit it in your browser. Your work saves on this device. An account is optional if you want to sync your workspace.

Can I export the finished diagram?

Yes. Use Export in the editor to save a PNG, SVG or PDF, or download an editable .epicdraw backup.

More Education templates →