We offer three types of membership, each designed to support and advance professionals responsible for protecting children and young people. Whether you’re new to a safeguarding role or leading on safeguarding across your organization, there’s a membership level to help you grow, connect, and improve outcomes for those under your care.
Associate Membership (AMIfS)
Who It's For:
Individuals—particularly those new to safeguarding responsibilities, or those who handle safeguarding in addition to another primary role (e.g., teachers, volunteers, part-time DSLs, etc.).
What Makes Associate Membership Unique:
- Free Entry & Ongoing Support: Associate Membership is completely free. This low barrier to entry ensures anyone interested in strengthening their safeguarding knowledge can join.
- Professional Recognition: Upon acceptance, you can use the post-nominal letters AMIfS (Associate Member of the Independent Federation for Safeguarding)—signifying your commitment to best practice.
- Learning Journey: Once registered, you’ll complete a brief self-assessment that guides you to training or professional development suited to your experience level. Many new Associates begin with an Introduction to Safeguarding Training course.
- Discounted Training & Events: You’ll enjoy reduced fees for further IfS courses, workshops, and webinars, making it easier to advance your safeguarding skill set.
- Flexibility & Accessibility: IfS accommodates individual needs through reasonable adjustments, ensuring everyone can participate and learn effectively.
Ideal Next Steps:
Use Associate Membership to develop foundational skills, gain ongoing CPD, and begin building a stronger safeguarding network.
Fellowship Programme (FIfS)
Who It’s For:
Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs), Safeguarding Officers/Deputies, or any professional with substantial safeguarding responsibilities.
Why Become a Fellow:
- Advanced Professional Status: Fellowship recognizes significant experience and expertise in safeguarding. Fellows are entitled to use the post-nominal FIfS (Fellow of the Independent Federation for Safeguarding).
- Structured Development Pathway: Learning continues from your Associate Member experience. You’ll complete advanced training—most notably the Level 4 Certificate in Leading Safeguarding—and engage in regular supervision or reflective practice.
- Career Enhancement & Reputation: Fellowship showcases your commitment to safeguarding excellence, a powerful credential for senior roles or leadership responsibilities.
- Ongoing CPD & Networking: Fellows gain exclusive opportunities to network, share best practices, and refine safeguarding strategies alongside peers at the same advanced level.
- Co-production with Survivors: Many IfS training programmes (including those leading to Fellowship) are co-created with survivors of abuse, ensuring that real-world insights inform best practice and policy.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Typically suited for those who already work in a role with substantive safeguarding duties.
- Associate Member of IfS.
- Completed requisite training programmes, as specified upon application.
Organisational Membership
Who It’s For:
Schools, charities, businesses, and institutions that want to demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding excellence.
Key Benefits:
- Discounted Training: Member organizations can access IfS training courses at reduced rates.
- Professional Development for Staff: Offer your entire team access to quality safeguarding CPD, ensuring everyone remains up to date on best practices.
- Reputation & Trust: Demonstrate to stakeholders, parents, and the community that your institution prioritizes high safeguarding standards.
How to Join:
Organizations can register directly with IfS at no cost. Once you’re signed up, your staff gain discounted rates on all relevant IfS training sessions.
Ready to Join?
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