Safeguarding Children Policy

My first responsibility and priority is towards the children in my care. I have received training on safeguarding children (Child Protection) and am aware of the signs and symptoms of child abuse, physical, emotional and sexual, and those of neglect. I keep up to date with child protection issues and relevant legislation by taking regular courses and by reading relevant publications.

If I am concerned about a child’s welfare, I may contact the local authority 01978 292000, the NSPCC 0808 800 5000, the National Childminding Association (NCMA), Single point of access (SPOA) 01332 623700 or other relevant support services for advice, providing this does not affect confidentiality. Child protection concerns that could identify a child are kept confidential and only shared with people who need to know the information.

I will implement the local safeguarding children board procedures without delay to minimise any rise to the child. I will call the local social services, duty desk and follow it with a letter within 48hours. I will keep a factual record of the concern and will ask the parents for an explanation, providing it would not put the child at risk.

I must inform CSSIW without delay, of any allegations or serious harm or abuse by any person living, working or looking after children at the premises (whether that allegation relates to harm or abuse committed on the premises or elsewhere), or any other abuse which is alleged to have taken place on the premises, and of the action taken in respect of these allegations.

To work with children, the criminal records bureau has carried out an enhanced level police check on me and my husband. I would not have been allowed to register as a childminder without these checks being clear.

If an allegation is made against me, or any member of my household, I will report is to CSSIW and social services following the safeguarding children board procedures. I will also contact NCMA’S safeguarding children service for help and support.

I will write a detailed record of any related incidents, including what was said and by whom, with times and dates. I will ask any witnesses (if there were any) to also write a statement detailing the incident they witnessed and give there contact details in case it needs to be followed up by the authorities.

My services would be suspended while the allegations of abuse against me were investigated by social services.

It is not my responsibility to attempt to investigate the situation myself.