Each year, hundreds of thousands of young people take part in a DofE programme. Keeping them safe is our first priority and everyone’s responsibility.
The essence of DofE is personal challenge. We help young people build confidence and resilience by testing themselves, often in unfamiliar environments. That means they’ll encounter risks – it’s part of their personal development. But always in a way that’s carefully managed.
Here, you can find out more about DofE’s approach to keeping young people safe from harm. And how you can report any concerns.
For further guidance please read The Department for Education’s advice on Keeping Children Safe during Community Activities, After-School Clubs and Tuition.

This policy sets out the safeguarding expectations for all staff, volunteers, participants, partners and those working in and for LO’s and AAP’s when they are delivering DofE activities and programmes.

This document sets out the steps to be taken by DofE staff in response to any concern that a child or adult at risk may be experiencing or is at risk of harm or abuse.

Our policy and code of conduct ensure the safeguarding of young people is at the heart of how we work at The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE), and at the heart of how we work with others to deliver the DofE.

The DofE charity collects information about incidents relating to the delivery of DofE programmes around the UK.

This document sets out the steps to be taken by DofE staff in response to any concern that a child or adult at risk may be experiencing or is at risk of harm or abuse.

This policy is part of the DofE’s Safeguarding framework and it applies to all DofE staff and its volunteers. This includes agency staff, contractors, those on placement or secondment.