The Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) has launched an updated ABDO CPD Child Safeguarding Level 2 course this month, accredited by Ofqual.
The qualification is designed to enhance professionals’ understanding and implementation of child safeguarding practices within the optical sector. It aims to ensure that all staff involved in eyecare services are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to protect children and young people effectively.
The course has been approved for 2 non-interactive General Optical Council (GOC) CPD points and covers the communication and professionalism domains. It is suitable for dispensing opticians, optometrists, optical assistants and students, but also other healthcare professionals working within an eyecare setting.
The training is structured to facilitate flexible learning, accommodating the schedules of busy professionals. It includes interactive modules, case studies and assessments to reinforce learning outcomes. The course is particularly relevant for those who have direct contact with children and young people in their practice.
Upon completion, participants will be required to complete a final assessment, ensuring a thorough understanding of the material covered, and will be issued with their CPD certificate and Ofqual certificate of completion.
By completing this training, participants will be better prepared to recognise and respond to safeguarding concerns, ensuring the safety and well-being of young patients in their care.
Alex Webster, professional development director at ABDO, commented, “The professional development team have worked hard to review and update our longstanding Child Safeguarding course to ensure it is relevant for 2025 and beyond.
“As part of the review, the course has been aligned with the Adult Safeguarding in providing an Ofqual Level 2 certificate, an endorsement recognised across professional fields. Although for some ABDO members it is mandatory to have Level 2 safeguarding accreditation to be able to practice in specific roles such as the special schools provision, we recommend all ABDO members undertake safeguarding training to ensure they are able to practice to the standards expected by the General Optical Council, and the ABDO safeguarding courses assist in this professional maintenance.”
Find out more on www.abdo.org.uk.