1. Level 1, Level 2 and why this is 2 hours

This module

Safeguarding children, young people and adults at risk is a GDC highly recommended CPD topic. PrismCPD uses this rule for who completes which series:

• Everyone completes Level 1 — 2 hours (this series).
• Non-clinical staff (reception, managers, staff who do not treat) complete Level 1 only.
• Clinical staff (dentists and dental care professionals) complete Level 1 and then Level 2 (a further 3 hours).
• Level 3 is not normally required in general dental practice. Some safeguarding leads choose it as extra.

Refresh at least every 3 years. Review competency in-year. E-learning is accepted. New starters should complete Level 1 within 6 weeks. Clinical staff then complete Level 2 within 6 months.

Suggested study time

• Levels, hours and professional duty — 18 min
• What harm means — 20 min
• How to report today — 17 min
• Knowledge check — 5 min

GDC and CQC

GDC Standards require you to put patients’ interests first and to raise concerns if people are at risk. CQC Regulation 13 expects an effective safeguarding system: a named lead, a procedure staff can find, and training that matches the role.

Your job at Level 1

You are not expected to diagnose abuse or run a section 47 enquiry. You are expected to notice something is wrong, tell the designated safeguarding lead (or deputy) the same day, and write down what you saw or heard.