If a child tells you they have been left locked in the house all night, what should you do first?

When a child discloses that they have been left locked in the house all night, the first action should be to inform the designated safeguarding lead. This individual has the specialized training and authority to handle situations involving child welfare and safeguarding issues appropriately. They will assess the situation and determine the best course of action to ensure the safety and well-being of the child, which may include contacting external authorities or social services if necessary.

Notifying the designated safeguarding lead ensures that the situation is addressed by someone with the proper knowledge of processes and procedures to follow, prioritizing the child's immediate safety and the legal responsibilities involved in such situations. This response aligns with safeguarding protocols, ensuring that the child's disclosure is taken seriously and handled with the utmost care.