Dear Members of Lifesaving SA,

Lifesaving South Africa will be hosting Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) training for members who wish to become accredited as a DSO, as well as separate Refresher Training for existing DSOs whose certification is due to expire or have already expired.

1. NEW DSO TRAINING COURSE

This course is intended only for members who have never completed the DSO Training before.

The proposed training date options are:

1. Saturday, 22^nd August 2026, OR
2. Saturday, 29^th August 2026, OR
3. Saturday, 5^th September 2026

Please can you select a date that suits you on the poll link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/W67HYY8

Closing date for responses is the 17^th August 2026. The date that suits the majority will be the course date.

The training is a FULL day: 09h00 to 17h00 and will take place via Zoom with an online exam to complete after the course.

THE DSO COURSE:

What is a Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO)?

A Designated Safeguarding Officer plays a crucial role in safeguarding individuals in the sport by addressing concerns related to harassment, bullying, emotional abuse, physical abuse, and sexual abuse. The DSO focuses on protection in the context of sport, distinct from injuries directly caused by the sport itself.

Who Should Attend?

This training is essential for all designated individuals who will be responsible for safeguarding athletes, coaches, and other members at their clubs. The training is particularly beneficial for those in charge of ensuring the safety and wellbeing of participants in lifesaving activities.

What are the Key Responsibilities of a DSO?

1. Assist in ensuring that the club complies with all relevant safeguarding policies and legislation to protect athletes and other stakeholders.
2. Ensure that safeguarding policies, procedures, and resources are shared effectively across the club.
3. Act as the go-to person for any internal or external safeguarding concerns within the club.
4. Manage and respond to any cases of poor practice or abuse reported to the club.
5. Advocate for a safe and supportive environment for all participants in lifesaving activities.

Each club should have a Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO). If your club does not yet have a DSO, please nominate a responsible individual who meets the criteria to attend the training.

1. DSO REFRESHER TRAINING COURSE

This training is ONLY for members who:

• Have a certificate that has expired or will be expiring soon; or
• Already hold a DSO certificate and just wish to refresh (optional if your certificate is valid)

The proposed refresher date options are:

1. Wednesday, 19^th August 2026, OR
2. Wednesday, 26^th August 2026, OR
3. Wednesday, 2^nd September 2026

The refreshers are 2 hours from 19h00 – 21h00.

Please can you select a date that suits you on the poll link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/8FXGKGC

Closing date for responses is the 17^th August 2026. The date that suits the majority will be the course date.

Yours in Lifesaving,

Mandy Thompson
National Safeguarding Officer