3. Report the same day — do not investigate

Who you tell

Every practice should name a designated safeguarding lead and a deputy. Know their names before you need them. If the concern is about the lead, tell the deputy, the principal, or the local authority directly.

Immediate danger

If someone is in immediate danger, call 999. Do not wait for the lead to come back from lunch.

If someone tells you something

• Listen. Stay calm. Do not promise secrecy.
• Do not ask leading questions or make them repeat it to the whole team.
• Tell them you will share this with the person whose job is to keep people safe.

Write it down

Date, time, what you saw or heard (their words if you can), who was present, and what you did next. Fact, not gossip. Do not alter it later to “soften” it.

Do not

• Confront the alleged abuser in the waiting room
• Investigate at home or on social media
• Put identifiable details in a staff WhatsApp group

Next module

Level 1 module 2 covers sharing information, confidentiality at reception, and supporting a colleague who is worried.

Always follow your written practice procedure and local contacts.