What training do youth workers need for safeguarding?

All youth workers should complete level 1 safeguarding training as a minimum, with designated safeguarding leads completing level 2 or 3. Training should be refreshed at least every two years. Many local authorities and organisations like the NSPCC offer courses specifically for youth work settings.

Can I give a young person my personal phone number?

This is strongly discouraged. All communication should be through your organisation's official channels. If a young person needs to contact you urgently, provide them with your organisation's contact details or relevant helpline numbers such as Childline (0800 1111).

Child Safety for Youth Workers

Safety guidance for youth workers, club leaders, and community workers. Build safe spaces for young people and respond confidently to safeguarding concerns.

Youth workers are uniquely positioned to support young people who may not have strong relationships with other adults. Whether you work in a youth club, community centre, faith group, or outreach setting, the trust young people place in you comes with a responsibility to keep them safe. This guide covers both online and offline safeguarding in youth work settings.

Why this matters

Young people in youth work settings may be those most at risk — they are often older, more independent, and may have less parental oversight. They may be experimenting with social media, encountering harmful content, or facing exploitation. Youth workers who can recognise the signs and respond appropriately can be a vital safety net.

Quick wins

high

Review your organisation's safeguarding policy and confirm who your safeguarding lead is

Time: 10 minutes

medium

Display a poster with helpline numbers (Childline, CEOP) in your venue

Time: 5 minutes

high

Run a quick online safety discussion using one of our conversation scripts

Time: 15 minutes

Common challenges

Young people using personal devices during sessions

Set clear expectations about device use during sessions. Consider a devices-off policy for structured activities. When devices are in use, ensure your Wi-Fi has appropriate content filtering enabled.

Maintaining professional boundaries on social media

Youth workers should not be friends with or follow individual young people on personal social media. Use official organisational accounts for any communication. Make this a written policy.

Navigating disclosures in informal settings

Young people are more likely to disclose concerns in casual conversation than in formal settings. Know your organisation's reporting procedures so you can act quickly. Listen without judging, record accurately, and report to your safeguarding lead.