Heaton House Nursery
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Updated January 2023
Introduction
1. Our Mission Statement
2. Our Philosophy
Child Protection
3. Children’s Right and Entitlements
4. Safeguarding and Child Protection
5. Allegations against Staff Members
6. Looked After Children
7. Online Safety (Inc. Mobile phones and cameras)
8. Late Collection and Non Collection of Children
9. Missing Children
10. Whistleblowing
11. Supporting Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) 12. Writing an Individual Educational Plan (IEP)
13. Administering Medication
14. Managing Children who are sick and/or Infectious
15. Managing Children with Allergies
16. Individual Health Care Plans
17. Recording and Reporting of Accidents and Incidents
18. Intimate care (Inc Nappy Changing)
19. Safe Sleep
20. Immunisations
Safer Recruitment
21. Safer Recruitment
22. Student Placements
23. Induction of Employees
Health and Safety
24. Health and Safety – General Statement
25. First Aid
26. Nutrition and Mealtimes
27. Food Hygiene
28. Basic Kitchen Opening and Closing Checks
29. Independence Building
30. Promoting Well being
31. Sun Safety
32. Fire Safety and Emergency Evacuations
33. No Smoking
34. Health and Safety Risk Assessment Template 35. Staff Safety
Risk Assessment
36. Supervision of Children on Trips and Outings
Learning and Development
37. Admissions
38. Learning and Development
39. The Role of the Key Person
40. Staff: Child Ratios
41. Famly Learning Journal
42. Two Year Progress Check
43. Transition and Settling In
44. Complaints and Comments
45. Visitors
46. Separated Families
Equal Opportunities
47. Valuing Diversity and Promoting Inclusion and Equality
Managing Behaviour
48. Promoting Positive Behaviour
49. Exclusion Policy
50. Promoting Well being
Data Protection
51. Handling of Data and Information Sharing
52. Working in Partnership with other Agencies
53. Confidentiality
Our Mission Statement
“Together we can make a difference”
We believe that children’s experiences in their earliest years are critical to their development and wellbeing. Within our tailored approach to Early Years Education we provide a programme of learning that meets the individual needs of each child whilst ensuring families feel supported to provide these experiences within the home.
Together we’re making a difference to Early Childhood experiences.
Our Approach
“It takes a village to raise a child”
African Proverb
At Heaton House we incorporate long-trusted teaching methods with the very best of modern child development thinking to create our own fresh approach. We take on board a vast array of early years theorists and philosophers within our practise to give children the very best early years experiences.
Maria Montessori
Children are given the freedom to work at their own pace, making their own choices and correcting their own mistakes. We focus on respecting the unique individuality of each child and on cultivating their respect for others, the community and the environment.
Reggio Emilia
Educators inspire curiosity by researching new ideas and topics with the children. We also use the nursery environment as a ‘third teacher’ to create new learning experiences
Jerome Bruner
Inspired by Bruner, we use a form of progressive repetition or ‘spiral’ learning. We explore questions and experiences with children which we revisit throughout their time at nursery, developing ideas with increasing depth.
How do we deliver our Learning approach?
To deliver our approach we focus on a number of key aspects.
Powerful Play
Play is at the heart of all our learning. As Albert Einstein once said ‘Play is the highest form of research’ and is how we learn. We deliver our curriculum through play based experiences designed to encourage, thrill and excite children in their learning experiences.
Educated Educators
There is a direct link between the quality of education that our educators receive and the quality of the education that they provide. At Heaton House we have a strong focus on professional development and an aspiration to continue to create inspirational early years practice that benefits each child within our nursery. The Heaton House Academy supports our educators with both training through online and face to face sessions along with mentoring.
Bespoke Curriculum
Our programme of learning is designed for each individual child, based on development, needs and interests. It is devised on a daily basis through our personalised planning process. Learning is shared with parents and carers creating a two way channel of communication surrounding each child. Together with families we celebrate the achievements of each child however large or small.
Inspired Teaching
Specific teaching strategies, influenced by the philosophical thinkers within Early years, shape our teaching and curriculum. We continuously engage in professional develop to enhance our teaching and the experience of the children. The children learn through a variety of mediums allowing them to find a way that suites their own needs.
Family and Community at the Heart
Family is the core of everything we do. We build positive relationships with our families right from the moment they enter on a tour, through our daily conversations and events. Having a deep rooted relationships with families allows us to understand each families individual circumstances and unique needs. It allows us to provide support and assistance in a non-judgemental manner. Our team provide a friendly and caring environment, not only to our children, but each child’s family network.
Safe, Imaginative and Curious Spaces
Our spaces our ever evolving and changing to meet the unique needs of each child within them. They are developed through the gaze of a child, taking into account their needs, interests and stages of development with curiosity and wonder in mind. Interesting spaces that provide for open ended, endless learning. Safety is always our key concern and our spaces provide the optimal safety whilst ensuring children have endless opportunities of learning.
Children’s Rights and Entitlements
The legal framework for this policy is based on:
Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act (2006)
Purpose To safeguard & promote the welfare of all children in our setting
Scope All staff, students and parents
Responsibility Owner/Manager
Last Reviewed 6th January 2023
Policy statement
▪ We promote children’s right to be strong, resilient and listened to by creating an environment in our setting that encourages children to develop a positive self-image. This which includes incorporating their heritage arising from their culture and ethnicity, their languages spoken at home, their religious beliefs, cultural traditions and home background in to the setting
▪ We promote children’s right to be strong, resilient and listened to by encouraging children to develop a sense of autonomy and independence.
▪ We help children to establish and encourage relationships with peers and with other adults. ▪ We work with parents to build their understanding of, and commitment to, the principles of safeguarding all our children.
What it means to promote children’s rights and entitlements to be ‘strong, resilient and listened to’.
To be strong means to be:
▪ secure in their foremost attachment relationships, where they are loved and cared for by at least one person who is able to offer consistent, positive and unconditional regard and who can be relied on; ▪ safe and valued as individuals in their families and in relationships beyond the family, such as day care or school;
▪ self-assured and form a positive sense of themselves – including all aspects of their identity and heritage; ▪ included equally and belong in our setting and in community life;
▪ confident in their own abilities and proud of their achievements;
▪ progressing optimally in all aspects of their development and learning;
▪ part of a peer group in which they learn to negotiate, develop social skills and an identity as global citizens, respecting the rights of others in a diverse world; and
▪ able to represent themselves and participate in aspects of service delivery that affects them, as well as aspects of key decisions that affect their lives.
To be resilient means to:
▪ be sure of their self-worth and dignity;
▪ be able to be assertive and state their needs effectively;
▪ be able to overcome difficulties and problems;
▪ be positive in their outlook on life;
▪ be able to cope with challenge and change;
▪ have a sense of justice towards themselves and others;
▪ develop a sense of responsibility towards themselves and others; and
▪ be able to represent themselves and others in key decision making processes.
To be listened to means:
▪ adults who are close to children recognise their need and right to express and communicate their thoughts, feelings and ideas;
▪ adults who are close to children are able to tune in to their verbal, sign and body language in order to understand and interpret what is being expressed and communicated;
▪ adults who are close to children are able to respond appropriately and, when required, act upon their understanding of what children express and communicate; and
▪ adults respect children’s rights and facilitate children’s participation and representation in imaginative and child centred ways in all aspects of core services.
Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy
The legal framework for this policy is based on:
Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act (2006)
Purpose To safeguard & promote the welfare of all children in our setting
Scope All staff, students and parents
Responsibility Owner/Manager
Last Reviewed 19th September 2022
Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, for the sake of this policy is defined as:
• Protecting children from maltreatment
• Preventing the impairment of children’s health or development
• Ensuring that children are growing up in circumstances consistent with the provision of safe and effective care.
(Definition taken from the HM Government document ‘Working together to safeguard children’)
Our prime responsibility is the welfare and well-being of all children in our care. As such we believe we have a duty to the children, families and staff to act quickly and responsibly in any instance that may come to our attention. All staff will work as part of a multi-agency team where needed in the best interests of the child.
Child Protection: Safeguarding Children
At Heaton House we aim to:
• Ensure that children are never placed at risk whilst attending the setting or within the home environment • Ensure that confidentiality is maintained at all times
• Ensure that all staff are alert to the signs of abuse, understand what is meant by child protection and are aware of the different ways in which children can be harmed including by other children i.e. bullying, discriminatory behaviour
• Ensure that all staff are familiar and updated regularly with child protection issues and procedures • Ensure parents are fully aware of child protection policies and procedures when they register with the nursery and are kept informed of all updates when they occur
• Keep the child at the centre of all we do
• Regularly review and update this policy with staff and parents where appropriate.
We support the children within our care, protect them from maltreatment and have robust procedures in place to prevent the impairment of children’s health and development. Safeguarding is a much wider subject than the elements covered within this single child protection policy, therefore this document should be used in conjunction with the other nursery policies and procedures.
Our nursery will work with children, parents, external agencies and the community to ensure the welfare and safety of children and to give them the very best start in life. Children have the right to be treated with respect and to be safe from any abuse in whatever form.
To ensure this we will:
• Create an environment to encourage children to develop a positive self-image
• Encourage children to develop a sense of independence and autonomy in a way that is appropriate to their age and stage of development
• Provide a safe and secure environment for all children
• Always listen to children.
Heaton House Nursery has a clear commitment to protecting children and promoting welfare. Should anyone believe that this policy is not being upheld, it is their duty to report the matter to the attention of nursery manager/owner or the relevant authority at the earliest opportunity.
Due to the many hours of care we are providing, staff will often be the first people to sense that there is a problem. They may well be the first people in whom children confide about abuse. The nursery has a duty to be aware that abuse does occur in our society.
This statement lays out the procedures that will be followed if we have any reason to believe that a child in our care is subject to welfare issues including physical, sexual, emotional abuse or neglect.
Our prime responsibility is the welfare and well-being of all children in our care. As such we believe we have a duty to the children to act quickly and responsibly in any instance that may come to our attention. All staff will work as part of a multi-agency team where needed in the best interests of the child.
General Indicators of child abuse
• Failure to thrive and meet developmental milestones
• Fearful or withdrawn tendencies
• Aggressive behaviour
• Unexplained injuries to a child or conflicting reports from parents or staff
• Repeated injuries
• Unaddressed illnesses or injuries.
Types of abuse
The signs and indicators listed below may not necessarily indicate that a child has been abused, but will help us to recognise that something may be wrong, especially if a child shows a number of these symptoms.
Parents should not be notified in cases where doing so would place the child, the referrer or any others at immediate risk. If in doubt contact Children’s Services who will then make a decision about whether the parents should be approached.
Physical Abuse
Action needs to be taken if staff have reason to believe that there has been a physical injury to a child, including deliberate poisoning; where there is definite knowledge, or reasonable suspicion that the injury was inflicted or knowingly not prevented. These symptoms may include bruising or injuries in an area that is not usual for a child, e.g. fleshy parts of the arms and legs, back, wrists, ankles and face.
Children and babies may be abused physically through shaking or throwing. Other injuries may include burns or scalds. These are not usual childhood injuries and should always be logged and discussed with the nursery manager.
Many children will have cuts and grazes from normal childhood injuries – it may be necessary to document these injuries in addition to the usual ‘Injury at Home’ procedure where there is any question of the child’s welfare being met. These should be logged and discussed with the nursery manager and/or the safeguarding officer.
Procedure
• All signs of marks/injuries to a child, when they come into nursery or occur during time at the nursery, will be recorded as soon as noticed by a staff member.
• If there appear to be any queries regarding the injury, the Local Authority Integrated Front Door (IFD) will be notified.
Fabricated Illness
This is also a type of physical abuse. This is where a child is presented with an illness that is fabricated by the adult carer. The carer may seek out unnecessary medical treatment or investigation. The signs may include a carer exaggerating a real illness or symptoms, complete fabrication of symptoms or inducing physical illness e.g. through poisoning, starvation, inappropriate diet. This may also be presented through false allegations of abuse or encouraging the child to appear disabled or ill to obtain unnecessary treatment or specialist support.
Procedure
• All signs of marks/injuries to a child, when they come into nursery or occur during time at the nursery, will be recorded as soon as noticed by a staff member.
• If there appears to be any queries regarding the injury, The Local Authority Integrated Front Door (IFD) will be notified. They will advise as to whether parents/carers should be notified.
• If you believe a staff member has caused this injury you must contact the designated safeguarding officer and report this to them immediately. (please see Allegation made against Staff Members for the full procedure)
Sexual Abuse
Action needs be taken under this heading if the staff member has witnessed occasion(s) where a child indicated sexual activity through words, play, drawing, had an excessive pre-occupation with sexual matters, or had an inappropriate knowledge of adult sexual behaviour or language.
This may include acting out sexual activity on dolls/toys or in the role play area with their peers, drawing pictures that are inappropriate for a child, talking about sexual activities or using sexual language or words. The child may become worried when their clothes are removed, e.g. for nappy changes.
The physical symptoms may include genital trauma, discharge, and bruises between the legs or signs of a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Emotional symptoms could include a distinct change in a child’s behaviour. They may be withdrawn or overly extroverted and outgoing. They may withdraw away from a particular adult and become distressed if they reach out for them, but they may also be particularly clingy to a potential abuser so all symptoms and signs should be looked at together and assessed as a whole.
If a child starts to talk openly to an adult about abuse they may be experiencing; the procedure stated later in this document under ‘recording abuse suspicions’ will be followed.
Procedure
• The adult should reassure the child and listen without interrupting if the child wishes to talk
• The adult should try not to lead the child’s conversation allowing the child to speak freely.
• The observed instances will be detailed in a confidential report
• The observed instances will be reported to the nursery manager/Designated Safeguarding Officer
• The matter will be referred to the Local Authority Integrated Front Door (IFD)
Neglect
Action should be taken under this heading if the staff member has reason to believe that there has been instances of persistent or severe neglect of a child (for example, by exposure to any kind of danger, including cold and starvation and failure to seek medical treatment when required on behalf of the child), which results in serious impairment of the child’s health or development, including failure to thrive.
Signs may include a child persistently arriving at nursery unwashed or unkempt, wearing clothes that are too small (especially shoes that may restrict the child’s growth or hurt them), arriving at nursery in the same nappy they went home in or a child having an illness that is not being addressed by the parent. A child may also be persistently hungry if a parent is withholding food or not providing enough for a child’s needs.
Neglect may also be shown through emotional signs, e.g. a child may not be receiving the attention they need at home and may crave love and support at nursery. They may be clingy and emotional. In addition, neglect may occur through pregnancy as a result of maternal substance abuse.
Procedure
• Practitioner should report any instances of neglect to the Designated Safeguarding Officer
• The Designated Safeguarding Officer will record any reports made of suspected neglect and make a decision as to whether the activity amounts to a reportable instance of neglect to the Integrated Front Door (IFD). If in doubt the Designated Safeguarding Officer should seek advice from the IFD.
• Such discussions will be recorded and where appropriate, the parent /carer will have access to such records.
• The child/family will be closely monitored
• An Early Help may need to be completed to ensure the child/parent is receives the appropriate support.
Emotional Abuse
Action should be taken under this heading if the staff member has reason to believe that there is a severe, adverse effect on the behaviour and emotional development of a child, caused by persistent or severe ill treatment or rejection.
This may include extremes of discipline where a child is shouted at or put down on a consistent basis, lack of emotional attachment by a parent, or it may include parents or carers placing inappropriate age or developmental expectations upon them. Emotional abuse may also be imposed through the child witnessing domestic abuse and alcohol and drug misuse by adults caring for them.
The child is likely to show extremes of emotion with this type of abuse. This may include shying away from an adult who is abusing them, becoming withdrawn, aggressive or clingy in order to receive their love and attention. This type of abuse is harder to identify as the child is not likely to show any physical signs.
Procedure
• The concern should be discussed with the Designated Safeguarding Officer
• Such discussions will be recorded
• An Early Help Form may need to be completed
• Should it be decided that the instances recording amount to emotional abuse the matter will be referred to the Integrated Front Door (IFD)
Recording Suspicions of Abuse and Disclosures
Staff should make an objective record of the Accurate, unbiased factual notes. This should be immediately given to the nursery manager or Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) on the agreed pro-forma. It may be appropriate, where the disclosure leads to a referral to the Integrated Front Door (IFD), to record the disclosures/suspicions of abuse on the Early Help Form within five days of the allegation.
The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) should write any actions they have taken with regards to the allegation within the documentation. The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) should also bring together any previous knowledge that the setting has about the family, previous support and relevant information to decicde whether a referral is required.
These records should be signed by the person reporting this and the Designated Safeguarding Officer. They should be dated and kept in a separate confidential file within a locked cupboard. They may also be stored as a digital file upon a computer which is password protected. Any computerised documents should be saved within a ‘management access only’.
A Child’s Disclosure of Abuse
If a child starts to talk to an adult about potential abuse it is important to not to promise the child complete confidentiality. This promise cannot always be kept. It is vital that the child is allowed to talk openly and disclosure is not forced or words put into the child’s mouth. As soon as possible after the disclosure it is vital details are logged down accurately.
It may be thought necessary that through discussion with all concerned the matter needs to be raised with the Local Authority Integrated Front Door (IFD) and Ofsted. Staff involved may be asked to supply details of any information/concerns they have with regard to a child. The nursery expects all members of staff to co-operate with the Integrated Front Door (IFD) and Ofsted in any way necessary to ensure the safety of the children.
When a child discloses information relation to potential abuse you should:
Local Authority Threshold Document:
This policy should be read alongside the Local Authority Threshold Document; Bolton Safeguarding Children Partnership ‘Framework for Action’ document. This document outlines the continuum of help and support available within the local authority alongside the threshold for responding.
Threshold for Responding to Allegations
Descriptors have been developed to assist practitioners in making decisions about the thresholds for help and support available to children and families. The descriptors have been created using learning from the Framework for Assessment of Children in Need and their Families and Getting it Right for Every Child a national practice model developed by the Scottish Government.
The descriptors are not exhaustive, nor are they meant to be a checklist. They are also not linear in nature, as we recognise that family life is complex and multi-faceted.
Rather they should be viewed as a tool to guide your work with children and their families, support decision making about when and what type of judgement on the facts of the case. help may be needed and provide this at the earliest opportunities.
Practitioners should use their skills, knowledge and experience of child development, as well as their understanding of the impact of parental behaviours to ensure the appropriate level of help is provided. A good understanding of the child and their family, as well as professional judgement remain essential when determining the appropriate threshold. The descriptors can be applied to any child, regardless of their age, gender, ethnicity, disability, etc.
Female Genital Mutilation
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is illegal in England and Wales under the FGM Act 2003 (“the 2003 Act”). It is a form of child abuse and violence against women. FGM comprises all procedures involving partial or total removal of the external female genitalia for non-medical reasons.
Section 5B of a mandatory reporting duty which requires regulated health and social care professionals and teachers in England and Wales to report ‘known’ cases of FGM in under 18s which they identify in the course of their professional work to the police.
‘Known’ cases are those where either a girl informs the person that an act of FGM – however described – has been carried out on her, or where the person observes physical signs on a girl appearing to show that an act of FGM has been carried out and the person has no reason to believe that the act was, or was part of, a surgical operation within section 1(2)(a) or (b) of the FGM
Types of Female Genital Mutilation
There are four main types of FGM:
• Type 1 (clitoridectomy) – removing part or all of the clitoris.
• Type 2 (excision) – removing part or all of the clitoris and the inner labia (lips that surround the vagina), with or without removal of the labia majora (larger outer lips).
• Type 3 (infibulation) – narrowing of the vaginal opening by creating a seal, formed by cutting and repositioning the labia.
• Other harmful procedures to the female genitals, including pricking, piercing, cutting, scraping or burning the area.
FGM is often performed by traditional circumcisers or cutters who do not have any medical training. However, in some countries it may be done by a medical professional.
Anaesthetics and antiseptics aren’t generally used, and FGM is often carried out using knives, scissors, scalpels, pieces of glass or razor blades.
Signs that a child may be at immediate danger of Female Genital Mutilation
• Families arranging long breaks on holiday
• Unexpected and repeat absences from nursery
• Typical Development suffering
Indicators that Female Genital Mutilation may have taken place
A girl or woman who ‘s had female genital mutilation (FGM) may:
• Have difficulty standing, walking or sitting
• Spend longer in the bathroom
• Appear withdrawn or anxious
• Have unusual behaviour after an absence from school or college
• Be particularly reluctant to undergo normal medical examinations
• Ask for help, but may not be explicit about the problem due to embarrassment or fear.
Reporting Procedure
Any suspicions of FGM must be reported to the Designated Safeguarding Officer immediately. On the information provided the Designated Safeguarding Officer will make a decision as to how to record/report. Where FGM is suspected a referral must be made to the Integrated Front Door (IFD)
The information regarding a finding of FGM should not be shared with a parent/carer unless a thorough investigation/risk assessment has been carried out by the Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub to allow this. A risk assessment must be carried out to ensure the child will not suffer further harm if a disclosure is made to the parents/carers.
Peer on Peer Bullying
Children and young people may be harmful to one another in a number of ways which would be classified as peer on peer abuse.
At Heaton House Nursery we have the following policies in place that should be read in conjunction with this policy:
▪ Anti-Bullying Policy
▪ Child Protection Policy
Expected Action to be taken by staff:
Although the type of abuse may have a varying effect on the victim and initiator of the harm, these simple steps can help clarify the situation and establish the facts before deciding the consequences for those involved in perpetrating harm.
It is important to deal with a situation of peer abuse immediately and sensitively. It is necessary to gather the information as soon as possible to get the true facts around what has occurred as soon after the children may have forgotten. It is equally important to deal with it sensitively and think about the language used and the impact of that language on both the children and the parents when they become involved. For example; do not use the word perpetrator, this can quickly create a ‘blame’ culture and leave a child labelled.
In all cases of peer on peer abuse it is necessary that all staff are trained in dealing with such incidents, talking to young people and instigating immediate support in a calm and consistent manner. Staff should not be prejudiced, judgemental, dismissive or irresponsible in dealing with such sensitive matters.
Gather the Facts
Speak to all the young people involved separately, gain a statement of facts from them and use consistent language and open questions for each account. The easiest way to do this is not to have a line of questioning
but to ask the young people to tell you what happened. Only interrupt the young person from this to gain clarity with open questions, ‘where, when, why, who’. (What happened? Who observed the incident? What was seen? What was heard? Did anyone intervene?)
Consider the Intent (begin to Risk Assess)
Has this been a deliberate or contrived situation for a young person to be able to harm another?
Informing parents
If, once appropriate advice has been sought from the Designated Safeguarding Officer/police/social care, you have agreement to inform parents or have been allocated that role from the other services involved then you need to inform the parents as soon as possible. If services are not going to be involved then equally, this information may need to be shared with parents.
In all circumstances where the risk of harm to the child is evident then the setting should encourage the young person to share the information with their parent or even with them (they may be scared to tell parents that they are being harmed in any way). Where the setting can evidence they are acting in the best interests of the young person they would not be criticised, however this would be the case if they actively breached the rights and choices of the young person.
The best way to inform parents is face to face.
Points to consider:
What is the age of the children involved?
How old are the young people involved in the incident and is there any age difference between those involved?
What was the explanation by all children involved of what occurred?
Can each of the young people give the same explanation of the incident and also what is the effect on the young people involved? Is the incident seen to be bullying for example, in which case regular and repetitive? Is the version of one young person different from another and why?
What is each of the children’s own understanding of what occurred?
Do the young people know/understand what they are doing? E.g. do they have knowledge of body parts, of privacy and that it is inappropriate to touch? Is the young person’s explanation in relation to something they may have heard or been learning about that has prompted the behaviour? Is the behaviour deliberate and contrived? Does the young person have understanding of the impact of their behaviour on the other person?
In dealing with an incident of this nature the answers are not always clear cut. If you are concerned or unsure as to whether or not there is any risk involved, please seek advice from Children’s Services Social Care.
Repetition
Has the behaviour been repeated to an individual on more than one occasion? In the same way it must be considered has the behaviour persisted to an individual after the issue has already been discussed or dealt with and appropriately resolved?
Next Steps
Once the outcome of the incident(s) has been established it is necessary to ensure future incidents of abuse do not occur again and consider the support and intervention required for those involved.
For the young person who has been harmed
What support they require depends on the individual young person. It may be that they wish to seek counselling or one to one support via a mentor. It may also be that they feel able to deal with the incident(s) with support of family, friends or nursery. In which case it is necessary that this child continues to be monitored and offered support should they require it in the future. If the incidents are of a bullying nature, the young person may need support in improving peer groups/relationships with other young people or some restorative justice work with all those involved may be required.
If the young person feels particularly vulnerable it may be that a risk assessment can be put in place for them whilst in setting so that they have someone named that they can talk to, support strategies for managing future issues and identified services to offer additional support.
For the young person who has displayed harmful behaviour
In this circumstance it is important to find out why the young person has behaved in such a way. It may be that the young person is experiencing their own difficulties and may even have been harmed themselves in a similar way. In such cases support such as one to one mentoring or counselling may also be necessary. Particular
support from identified services may be necessary through a early help referral and the young person may require additional support from family members.
Once the support required to meet the individual needs of the young person has been met, it is important that young person receives a consequence for their behaviour. This may be in the form of restorative justice e.g. making amends with the young person they have targeted if this has been some form of bullying.
Even following the conclusion of any investigation the behaviour that the young person has displayed may continue to pose a risk to others in which case an individual risk assessment may.
The nursery may also choose a consequence such as exclusion or internal exclusion/inclusion/seclusion for a period of time to allow the young person to reflect on their behaviour.
It is important that following the incident the young people involved continue to feel supported and receive help even if they have stated that they are managing the incident. Sometimes the feelings of remorse, regret or unhappiness may occur at a much later stage than the incident. It is important to ensure that the young people do not engage in any further harmful behaviour either towards someone else or to themselves as a way of coping (e.g. self-harm). In which case, regular reviews with the young people following the incident(s) are imperative.
Preventative Strategies
For the nursery, it is important to develop appropriate strategies in order to prevent the issue of peer on peer abuse rather than manage the issues in a reactive way.
Firstly, and most importantly for nurseries is recognition that peer on peer abuse can and will occur on any site even with the most stringent of policies and support mechanisms. In which case it is important to continue to recognise and manage such risks and learn how to improve and move forward with strategies in supporting young people to talk about any issues and through sharing information with all staff.
This can be supported by ensuring that each nursery has an open environment where children feel safe to share information about anything that is upsetting or worrying them.
To enable such an open and honest environment it is necessary to ensure the whole workforce feels confident and enabled to talk about issues and challenge.
In order to create such an environment, it is necessary for whole staff training and CPD around abusive behaviours and talking to young people in a way that continues to create an open and honest environment without prejudice.
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
We have a named person within the nursery that co-ordinates child protection and welfare issues. The nursery Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) undertakes specific training and accesses regular updates to developments within this field.
The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) at the nursery are: Mrs Lauren Hyde/ Mrs Sarah Luke The Deputy Designated Safeguarding Officer is : Ms Janine Moxon
Staffing and Volunteering
It is the policy of the nursery to provide a secure and safe environment for all children. The nursery will therefore not allow an adult to be left alone with a child who has not received their enhanced Disclosure and Baring Check.
All staff will attend child protection training within their first three months of employment, and receive initial basic training during their induction period. This will include the procedures for spotting signs and behaviours of abuse and abusers, recording and reporting concerns and creating a safe and secure environment for the children in the nursery.
• We provide adequate and appropriate staffing resources to meet the needs of children
• Applicants for posts within the nursery are clearly informed that the positions are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Candidates are informed of the need to carry out checks before posts can be confirmed. Where applications are rejected because of information that has been disclosed, applicants have the right to know and to challenge incorrect information
• All enhanced Disclosure and Baring Checks will be updated on a regular basis to ensure the suitability of the adults caring for the children
• We abide by Ofsted requirements in respect of references and suitability checks for staff and volunteers, to ensure that no disqualified person or unfit person works at the nursery or has access to the children
• We ensure we receive written references BEFORE a new member of staff commences employment with us
• All long-term students will have enhanced DBS disclosures conducted on them before their placement starts
• Volunteers, including students, do not work unsupervised
• We abide by the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act (2006) requirements in respect of any person who is dismissed from our employment, or resigns in circumstances that would otherwise have lead to dismissal for reasons of child protection concern
• We have procedures for recording the details of visitors to the nursery and take security steps to ensure that we have control over who comes into the nursery, so that no unauthorised person has unsupervised access to the children
• All contractors/external workers will be enhanced DBS checked and the manager will request this before allowing them access to the nursery. All visitors/contractors will still be accompanied whilst on the premises, especially when in the areas the children use
• All staff have access to a whistle blowing policy which will enable them to share any concerns that may arise about their colleagues in an appropriate manner
• All staff will receive regular supervision meetings where opportunities will be made available to discuss child protection training and any needs for further support
• The deployment of staff within the nursery allows for constant supervision and support. Where children need to spend time away from the rest of the group, the door will be left ajar or other safeguards will be placed into action to ensure the safety of the child and the adult.
Informing parents
Disclosure of any safeguarding issue to a parent/carer should only be made if, on the risk assessment of the information, a child would not be at risk of further harm if this disclosure is made. In some instances of abuse it would be entirely inappropriate to make a disclosure to a parent/carer e.g physical abuse, sexual abuse, serious emotional abuse, serious neglect. A disclosure to the parents/carers in this instance must only be carried out where the MASH have provided advice to do so.
Confidentiality
All suspicions, enquiries and external investigations are kept confidential and shared only with those who need to know. Any information is shared under the guidance of the Local Safeguarding Board.
Support to families
• The nursery takes every step in its power to build up trusting and supportive relations among families, staff and volunteers within the nursery
• The nursery continues to welcome the child and the family whilst enquiries are being made in relation to abuse in the home situation. Parents and families will be treated with respect in a non-judgmental manner whilst any external investigations are carried out in the best interests of the child
• Confidential records kept on a child are shared with the child’s parents or those who have parental responsibility for the child, only if appropriate under the guidance of the Local Safeguarding Board with the proviso that the care and safety of the child is paramount. We will do all in our power to support and work with the child’s family.
Allegations Made Against a Staff Member or Volunteer (See additional policy)
If an allegation is made against a member of staff or volunteer, we will follow the HM Government guidance in ‘Working together to safeguard children’.
The allegation should be reported to the Designated Safeguarding Officer. If this person is the subject of the allegation then this should be reported to the Deputy Designated Safeguarding Officer or the manager instead.
The Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO), Ofsted and the Integrated Front Door (IFD) will then be informed immediately in order for this to be investigated by the appropriate bodies promptly:
• LADO will be informed immediately for advice and guidance
• A full investigation will be carried out by the appropriate professionals to determine how this will be handled
• The nursery will follow all instructions from the LADO, Ofsted, Integrated Front Door (IFD) and asks all staff members to do the same and co-operate where required
• Support will be provided to all those involved in an allegation throughout the external investigation in line with LADO support and advice
• The nursery reserves the right to suspend any member of staff during an investigation
• All enquiries/external investigations/interviews will be documented and kept in a locked file
• Unfounded allegations will result in all rights being re-instated
• Founded allegations will be passed on to the relevant organisation (police) and will result in the termination of employment. Ofsted will be notified immediately of this decision. The nursery is also required to notify the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) to ensure their records are updated.
• All records will be kept until the person reaches normal retirement age or for 10 years if that is longer. This will ensure accurate information is available for references and future DBS checks and avoid any unnecessary re-investigation
• The nursery retains the right to dismiss any member of staff in connection with founded allegations following an inquiry
• Counselling will be available for any member of the nursery who is affected by an allegation, their colleagues in the nursery and the parents through the Local Authority Support services.
Managing Allegations against a Manager/Owner
• Where issues are raised relating a Manager/Owner, these issues should be taken to the manager who will report the allegations to the local LADO officer
• Where concerns are related to a manager/owner and no hierarchy exists above this person, a staff member should raise this with the Senior Nominated Officer within the Local Authority or Partner Agency or the LADO
• If the allegations prove not to be true then the manager will keep the records and the matter will remain confidential except to those involved i.e. staff and parents.
Use of Mobile Phones in the setting
▪ Parents should not use their mobile phone whilst in the setting. The camera function of the phone should not be used to take photos of the parent’s child, any artwork/displays or activities. Parents seen to be doing this should immediately be stopped and told to remove any images/recording from their device. Persistent failure to abide by this rule will lead to intervention by the manager/owner.
▪ Staff are not permitted to use their mobile phones during working hours unless on a break. Phones may be used in the staffroom and outside the setting. Staff must not use phones on arrival or exit from the building.
▪ Staff must ensure there phones are kept in the designated phone area. Responsibility for mobile phones is with the individual staff member and the setting takes no responsibility for damage to personal property.
▪ Where a staff member does not wish to store their phone in the designated area, they will be asked to leave their mobile telephone at home.
▪ Should mobile phones be found on the person of the staff member or in bags during working hours this will be open to disciplinary action (see Disciplinary Policy)
Acceptable use of ICT & Social Media
The Senior Management Team has overall responsibility for e-Safety as part of the wider remit of safeguarding and child protection (see E-safety policy). To meet these responsibilities, the Owner will:
• promote e-safety across the setting and have an awareness of how this is being developed, linked with any setting development plans.
• ensure that any equipment which holds sensitive or confidential information is safely stored and password protected.
• ensure that e-safety is embedded within all child protection training, guidance and practices.
• ensure all social media platforms are appropriately monitored and material published is in line with safeguarding and setting guidelines.
• ensure parents and carers are provided with the adequate information regarding use of children’s images with an opportunity to opt out of any external use of images and data.
Prevent Duty Policy
Background
Education has an important part to play in both educating children and young people about extremism and recognising when children and more so, families start to become radicalised. In March 2015, new statutory duties were placed on schools by the Counter Terrorism and Security Act (2015). This means they must work to prevent children being drawn into extremism.
Safeguarding children from all risks of harm is an important part of a nursery’s work and protecting them from extremism is one aspect of that.
Ethos
At Heaton House Nursery we ensure that our values, core beliefs, diverse curriculum and teaching promotes tolerance and respect for all cultures, faiths and lifestyles.
We have a duty to prepare our children for life in modern Britain and to keep them safe.
Children and families who attend our nursery have the right to learn in safety. We do not tolerate bullying of any kind and will challenge derogatory language and behaviour towards others whether racial or discriminatory.
Statutory Duty
The duty to prevent children and young people being radicalised is set out in the following documents.
• Counter Terrorism and Security Act (2015)
• Keeping Children Safe in Education (2015)
• Prevent Duty Guidance (2015)
• Working Together to Safeguard Children (2015)
Non-Statutory Duty
• Promoting fundamental British values: Departmental advice (DfE 2014)
Related Policies
• Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy
• Equality Policy
• Personal, Social And Health Education (PSHE) Policy
• Staff Code of Conduct
• Teaching and Learning Policy
• Education Policy
• Visitors Policy
• Whistle-blowing Policy
• Acceptable Use (ICT) Policy
• Behaviour for Learning Policy
Definitions
Extremism is defined in the 2011 Prevent strategy as vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs.
Radicalisation refers to the process by which a person comes to support terrorism and extremist ideologies associated with terrorist groups.
British Values are democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.
Role of the Owner
It is the role of the setting owner to:
• ensure that the nursery and its staff respond to preventing radicalisation on a day-to-day basis,
• ensure that the nursery’s curriculum addresses the issues involved in radicalisation
• ensure that staff conduct is consistent with preventing radicalisation
Role of the Designated Safeguard Lead:
It is the role of the designated safeguarding lead to:
• ensure that staff understand the issues of radicalisation, are able to recognise the signs of vulnerability or radicalisation and know how to refer their concerns
• receive safeguarding concerns about children and young people who may be vulnerable to the risk of radicalisation or are showing signs of radicalisation
• make referrals to appropriate agencies with regard to concerns about radicalisation
• liaise with partners, including the local authority and the police
• report to the governing body on these matters
Role of the Staff
It is the role of staff to understand the issues of radicalisation, are able to recognise the signs of vulnerability or radicalisation and know how to refer their concerns.
Curriculum
We are committed to ensuring that our children are offered a broad and balanced curriculum that aims to prepare them for life in modern Britain. We encourage our children to be inquisitive learners who are open to new experiences and are tolerant of others.
These values support the development of the whole child as a reflective learner within a calm, caring, happy and purposeful atmosphere. The Nursery’s core values alongside the fundamental British Values supports quality teaching and learning, whilst making a positive contribution to the development of a fair, just and civil society.
Internet Safety
The internet provides children and young people with access to a wide-range of content, some of which is harmful. The filtering systems used in our nursery blocks inappropriate content, including extremist content.
Searches and web addresses are monitored. Where there are concerns and prevent further access when new sites that are unblocked are found.
Where staff, students or visitors find unblocked extremist content they must report it to a senior member of staff.
We are aware that staff have access to unfiltered internet when using their mobile phones and staff are alert to the need for vigilance to police their peers and report any instances of unacceptable behaviour.
Staff Training
Staff will be given training to help them understand the issues of radicalisation, are able to recognise the signs of vulnerability or radicalisation and know how to refer their concerns. This information also forms part of
induction safeguarding training. Staff are updated as necessary in safeguarding briefings during meetings and peer observations.
Safer Recruitment
We ensure that the staff we appoint to the nursery are suitable. Our recruitment procedures are rigorous and we follow the statutory guidance published in Keeping Children Safe(2015). Vetting and barring checks are undertaken on relevant people.
Visitors
We undertake due diligence to ensure that visiting speakers are appropriate. Speakers will be supervised at all times and will not be allowed to speak to children without a member of staff being present. Staff must not invite speakers into school without first obtaining permission from the owner.
Signs of Vulnerability
There are no known definitive indicators that a young person is vulnerable to radicalisation, but there are number of signs that together increase the risk. Signs of vulnerability include:
• underachievement
• being in possession of extremist literature
• poverty
• social exclusion
• traumatic events
• global or national events
• religious conversion
• change in behaviour
• extremist influences
• conflict with family over lifestyle
• confused identify
• victim or witness to race or hate crimes
• rejection by peers, family, social groups or faith
Recognising Extremism
Early indicators of radicalisation or extremism may include:
• showing sympathy for extremist causes
• glorifying violence, especially to other faiths or cultures
• making remarks or comments about being at extremist events or rallies outside school
• evidence of possessing illegal or extremist literature
• advocating messages similar to illegal organisations or other extremist groups
• out of character changes in dress, behaviour and peer relationships (but there are also very powerful narratives, programmes and networks that young people can come across online so involvement with particular groups may not be apparent.)
• secretive behaviour
• online searches or sharing extremist messages or social profiles
• intolerance of difference, including faith, culture, gender, race or sexuality
• graffiti, art work or writing that displays extremist themes
• attempts to impose extremist views or practices on others
• verbalising anti-Western or anti-British views
• advocating violence towards others
Referral Process
Staff and visitors to the nursery must refer all concerns about children and their families who show signs of vulnerability or radicalisation to the Designated Safeguarding Lead using the usual methods for reporting other safeguarding concerns.
When there are significant concerns about a child and/or family, the Designated Safeguarding Lead in liaison with the owner will make a referral to the appropriate body.
Monitoring and Review
This policy will be monitored by the nursery at least annually by the Designated Safeguarding Lead.
Agencies to contact if you are concerned about the safety of a child
Children’s Social Services
North East District
Endeavour House
Waters Meeting Road
Bolton BL1 8SW
Astley Bridge, Bradshaw, Breightmet, Bromley Cross, Tonge Moor, Derby
01204 337400
South East District
Farnworth Town Hall
Market Street
Farnworth
Bolton BL4 7PD
Burnden, Daubhill, Farnworth, Harper Green, Kearsley, Little Lever
01204 333555
West District
Le Mans Crescent
Queen Street
Bolton BL1 1SA
Blackrod, Deane, Heaton, Halliwell, Hulton Park, Horwich, Westhoughton
01204 337210
Emergency Duty Team
01204 337777
Child Protection Unit
Endeavour House
Waters Meeting Road
Bolton BL1 8SW
01204 337468
Inter-agency Training
Co-ordinator
Staff Development
Castle Hill Centre
Castleton Street
Bolton BL2 2JW
01204 337612
Greater Manchester Police – Public Protection Investigation Unit (Bolton)
0161 856 6583
Allegations against those in a position of trust.
Agencies to Contact
Children’s Services
Head of Service Child Protection Unit
01204 337470
Principal Education Social Worker
01204 338171
Head of Service for Children and Young People
01204 334095
Head of Early Start
01204 331937
Primary Care Trust
Community Consultant Paediatrician (Designated Doctor)
01204 362333
Designated Nurse Child Protection
01204 846762
Royal Bolton Hospital Trust
Head of Nursing (Named Nurse)
01204 390725
Consultant Paediatrician (Named Doctor)
01204 390658
National Probation Service
District Manager
01204 387699
Greater Manchester Police
Detective Inspector
Divisional Family Support Unit
0161 856 7947
Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO)
Endeavour House
01204 337474
OFSTED
Piccadilly Gate, Store Street, Manchester, M1 2WD
0300 123 1231
Allegations Against Staff Members
The legal framework for this policy is based on:
Safeguarding Children
Childrens Act 1989
Purpose To ensure allegations relating to staff are reported/dealt with appropriately Scope All staff, students and parents
Responsibility Owner/Manager
Reviewed on 12th November 2022
Introduction
It is essential that any allegation of abuse made against a member of staff , students on placement volunteers, bank staff in our setting is dealt with fairly, quickly, and consistently, in a way that provides effective protection for the child and at the same time supports the person who is the subject of the allegation. Thus, the procedures outlined in this policy will be followed alongside the nursery’s complaints procedure and child protection policy.
All staff and volunteers should understand what to do if they receive an allegation against another member of staff or they themselves have concerns about the behaviour of another member of staff. It is our policy that all allegations will be reported straight away, to the manager, or to the most senior staff member in cases where the Manager is absent or is the subject of the allegation or concern.
This policy follows the Government guidance in chapter 5 of ‘Safeguarding Children and Safer Recruitment in Education 34 ‘LSE Nursery also adopts the Government guidance – “Working Together to Safeguard Children: A guide to inter-agency working to safeguard and promote the welfare of children” (2018), which sets out the framework for managing cases of allegations of abuse against people who work with children.
Purpose
This policy will be adopted in respect of allegations that might indicate that a person is unsuitable to continue to work with children in their present position, or in any capacity. The Nursery’s complaints and child protection procedures will be followed alongside this policy.
This policy will be used in respect of all cases in which it is alleged that a member of staff (including a volunteer, student) has:
• behaved in a way that has harmed a child, or may have harmed a child (see Child Protection Policy for definition of harm)
• Possibly committed a criminal offence against or related to a child
• behaved towards a child or children in a way that indicates s/he is unsuitable to work with children. This will include cases of verbal abuse.
There may be up to 3 strands in the consideration of an allegation:
• A police investigation of a possible criminal offence
• Enquiries and assessment by children’s social care about whether a child is in need of protection or in need of services
• Consideration by the Nursery of disciplinary action in respect of the individual.
Supporting Those Involved
Parents or carers of a child or children involved will be told about the allegation as soon as possible if they do not already know of it. They will also be kept informed about the progress of the case, and told the outcome where there is not a criminal prosecution. That includes the outcome of any disciplinary process. NB. The deliberations of a disciplinary hearing, and the information taken into account in reaching a decision, cannot normally be disclosed, but the parents or carers of the child will be told the outcome.
In cases where a child may have suffered significant harm, or there may be a criminal prosecution, children’s social care, or the police as appropriate, will be consulted by the Setting to consider what support the child or children involved may need. The Setting Senior Leader and manager will also keep the person who is the subject of the allegations informed of the progress of the case and consider what other support is appropriate for the individual. If the person is suspended, the Setting Senior Leader and manager will also keep the individual informed about developments at the nursery. If the person is a member of a union or professional association s/he will be advised to contact that body at the outset.
Confidentiality
Every effort will be made to maintain confidentiality and guard against publicity while an allegation is being investigated/considered.
Resignations and Compromise Agreements
The fact that a person tenders his or her resignation, or ceases to provide their services, will not prevent an allegation being followed up in accordance with these procedures. Every effort will be made to reach a conclusion in all cases of allegations bearing in mind the safety or welfare of children including any in which the person concerned refuses to cooperate with the process.
Wherever possible the person will be given a full opportunity to answer the allegation and make representations about it. The process of investigating the allegation, and reaching a judgement about whether it can be regarded as substantiated will continue even if the person does not cooperate.
Similarly, so called “compromise agreements” by which a person agrees to resign, the nursery agrees not to pursue disciplinary action, and both parties agree a form of words to be used in any future reference, will not be used in cases of alleged child abuse. In any event, such an agreement will not prevent a thorough police investigation where that is appropriate. Furthermore, it will not override the statutory duty to make a referral to the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) for consideration of placing the person’s name on the Children’s Barred List where circumstances require that.
Record Keeping
A clear and comprehensive summary of any allegations made, details of how the allegation was followed up and resolved, and a note of any action taken and decisions reached, will be kept on a person’s confidential personnel file, and a copy provided to the person concerned. The purpose of the record is to enable accurate information to be given in response to any future request for a reference if the person has moved on.
It will provide clarification in cases where a future DBS Disclosure reveals information from the police about an allegation that did not result in a criminal conviction. In addition, it will help to prevent unnecessary re-investigation if, as sometimes happens, an allegation re-surfaces after a period of time. The record will be retained at least until the person has reached normal retirement age or for a period of 10 years from the date of the allegation, if that is longer.
Timescales
It is in everyone’s interest to resolve cases as quickly as possible consistent with a fair and thorough investigation. Every effort will be made to manage cases to avoid any unnecessary delay.
Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) will be informed within one working day of the allegation. Ofsted will be informed with ten working days however, in most cases this will be done as soon as practicable.
Initial Considerations
The Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) should be informed, by the manager of all allegations of abuse against staff on the same day, even where the police are contacted directly. LADO in all cases must be informed within one day of the allegation.
The manager will inform the accused person about the allegation as soon as possible after consulting the Chairman of Governors and the LADO. However, where a strategy discussion is needed, or where police or children’s social care need to be involved, the manger will not do that until those agencies have been consulted, and have agreed what information can be disclosed to the person. If the person is a member of a union or professional association s/he will be advised to contact that organisation at the outset.
Where the allegation relates to a member of senior management, where no further hierarchy exists, the staff member should consult LADO directly.
If the allegation is not demonstrably false or unfounded, and there is cause to suspect a child is suffering or is likely to suffer significant harm, a strategy discussion will be convened by the manager with the LADO and other appropriate agencies, such as the police and social services.
In cases where a formal strategy discussion is not considered appropriate because the threshold of “significant harm” is not reached, but a police investigation might be needed, the manager will consult with the LADO, police and any other agencies involved with the child to evaluate the allegation and decide how it should be dealt with.
(NB. The police will be consulted about any case in which a criminal offence may have been committed.)
If the allegation is about physical contact, the strategy discussion or initial evaluation with the police will take account of the fact that nursery staff are entitled to use reasonable force to control or restrain children in certain circumstances, including dealing with disruptive behaviour, under s.93 of the Education and Inspections Act 2006.
The LADO and the manager may conclude that the complaint or allegation is such that it is clear that an investigation by police and/or enquiries by social care is not necessary. In these circumstances the options open to the nursery depend on the nature and circumstances of the allegation and the evidence and information available, and will range from taking no further action to summary dismissal or a decision not to use the person’s services in future.
Suspension
Suspension will be considered in any case where there is cause to suspect a child is at risk of significant harm, or the allegation warrants investigation by the police, or is so serious that it might be grounds for dismissal. However, a person will not be suspended automatically, or without careful thought.
In all cases, a child subject to allegations of abuse from a staff member must be protected. It may be prudent to suspend a staff member with immediate effect or after consultation, re-deploy the staff member to alternative duties. Whilst carrying out a risk assessment of the circumstances it is best practice to re-deploy the staff member to office duties whilst pending a decision.
The power to suspend is vested in the Manager/Owner. However, they will speak to the LADO who may canvass police/social care views about whether the accused member of staff needs to be suspended from contact with children, to inform the nursery’s consideration of suspension.
DBS Safeguard Referral
If a person is dismissed or removed from regulated activity (or may have done so had they not left)’ because they have harmed or posed a risk of harm to a child or vulnerable adult, then the setting has a LEGAL duty to refer the person to the DBS.
A referral can be made on the DBS Helpline on 01325 953795.
Action on Conclusion of a Case
If the allegation is substantiated and the person is dismissed or the nursery ceases to use the person’s services, or the person resigns or otherwise ceases to provide his/her services, the Manager will determine with the LADO whether a referral to the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) is required, or advisable. The setting must report to the ISA, any person (whether employed, contracted or a volunteer) whose services are no longer used because he or she is considered unsuitable to work with children. (The ISA, PO Box 181, Darlington DL1 9FA. Tel: 0300 1231111). This report will be made within one month of the decision to cease using the services of that person.
In cases where it is decided on the conclusion of the case that a person who has been suspended can return to work the nursery will consider how best to facilitate that. We appreciate that most people will benefit from some help and support to return to work after a very stressful experience. Depending on the individual’s circumstances, a phased return and/or the provision of a mentor to provide assistance and support in the short term may be appropriate. The nursery will also consider how the person’s contact with the child or children who made the allegation can best be managed if they are still attending the nursery.
Action in Respect of False Allegations
If an allegation is determined to be false, the manager will refer the matter to children’s social services to determine whether the child concerned is in need of services, or may have been abused by someone else. In the rare event that an allegation is shown to have been deliberately invented or malicious, the manager will consider whether any disciplinary action is appropriate against the staff/child who made it, or the police should be asked to consider whether any action might be appropriate against the person responsible if s/he was not a child.
Useful Numbers:
LADO
LEA
0161 856 6583
Designated Persons
Lauren Hyde
01204 494888
Designated Persons
Jenny Hammersley/Janine Moxon
01204 494888
OFSTED
Inspection
0300 123 1231
Social Services
Parent/Police liaison
01204 337470
Looked After Children
The legal framework for this policy is based on:
Safeguarding Children
Childrens Act 1989
Purpose To outline the duties as a setting we have to children who are looked after
Scope All staff, students and parents
Responsibility Owner/Manager
Reviewed on 22nd October 2022
Policy statement
We are committed to providing quality provision based on equality of opportunity for all children and their families. All staff in our provision are committed to doing all they can to enable ‘looked after’ children in our care to achieve and reach their full potential.
Children become ‘looked after’ if they have either been taken into care by the local authority, or have been accommodated by the local authority (a voluntary care arrangement). Most looked after children will be living in foster homes, but a smaller number may be in a children’s home, living with a relative or even placed back home with their natural parent(s).
We recognise that children who are being looked after have often experienced traumatic situations; physical, emotional or sexual abuse or neglect. However, we also recognise that not all looked after children have experienced abuse and that there are a range of reasons for children to be taken in to the care of the local authority. Whatever the reason, a child’s separation from their home and family signifies a disruption in their lives that has an impact on their emotional well-being. Most local authorities do not place children under five with foster carers who work outside the home; however, there are instances when this does occur or where the child has been placed with another family member who works.
We place emphasis on promoting children’s right to be strong, resilient and listened to. Our policy and practice guidelines for looked after children are based on two important concepts: attachment and resilience. The basis of this is to promote secure attachments in children’s lives, as the foundation for resilience. These aspects of well-being underpin the child’s responsiveness to learning and enable the development of positive dispositions for learning. For young children to get the most out of educational opportunities they need to be settled enough with their carer to be able to cope with further separation, a new environment and new expectations made upon them.
Principles
▪ The term ‘looked after child’ denotes a child’s current legal status; this term is never used to categorise a child as standing out from others. We do not refer to such a child using acronyms such as LAC.
▪ Where appropriate we will offer a placement at our setting for a ‘looked after child’. This will be carried out whilst working alongside other agencies who are involved with the child. We will work to provide a secure routine and relationships for this child.
▪ Where a child who normally attends our setting is taken into care and is cared for by a local foster carer, we will continue to offer the placement for the child.
Procedures
▪ The designated person for looked after children is the designated child protection co-ordinator. This is Lauren Hyde, Sarah Luke and Janine Moxon.
▪ Every child is allocated a key person and this is no different for a looked after child. The designated person ensures the key person has the information, support and training necessary to meet the looked after child’s needs.
▪ The designated person and the key person liaise with agencies, professionals and practitioners involved with the child and his or her family and ensure that appropriate information is gained and shared.
▪ The setting recognises the role of the local authority children’s social care department as the child’s ‘corporate parent’ and the key agency in determining what takes place with the child. Nothing changes, especially with regard to the birth parent’s or foster carer’s role in relation to the setting, without prior discussion and agreement with the child’s social worker.
▪ At the start of a placement there is a professional’s meeting to determine the objectives of the placement and draw up a care plan that incorporates the child’s learning needs. This plan is reviewed after two weeks, six weeks and three months. Thereafter at three to six monthly intervals.
▪ The care plan needs to consider issues for the child such as:
– their emotional needs and how they are to be met;
– how any emotional issues and problems that affect behaviour are to be managed;
– their sense of self, culture, language(s) and identity – and how this is to be supported;
– their need for sociability and friendship;
– their interests and abilities and possible learning journey pathway; and
– how any special needs will be supported.
▪ In addition the care plan will also consider:
– how information will be shared with the foster carer and local authority (as the ‘corporate parent’) as well as what information is shared with whom and how it will be recorded and stored;
– what contact the child has with his/her birth parent(s) and what arrangements will be in place for supervised contact. If this is to be at the setting, when, where and what form the contact will take will be discussed and agreed;
– what written reporting is required;
– wherever possible, and where the plan is for the child to return home, the birth parent(s) should be involved in planning; and
– with the social worker’s agreement, and as part of the plan, the birth parent(s) should be involved in the setting’s activities that include parents, such as outings and fun-days etc alongside the foster carer.
▪ The settling-in process for the child is agreed. It should be the same as for any other child, with the foster carer taking the place of the parent, unless otherwise agreed. It is even more important that the ‘proximity’ stage is followed until it is visible that the child has formed a sufficient relationship with his or her key person for them to act as a ‘secure base’ to allow the gradual separation from the foster carer. This process may take longer in some cases, so time needs to be allowed for it to take place without causing further distress or anxiety to the child.
▪ In the first two weeks after settling-in, the child’s well-being is the focus of observation, their sociability and their ability to manage their feelings with or without support.
▪ Further observations about communication, interests and abilities will be noted to firm a picture of the whole child in relation to the Early Years Foundation Stage prime and specific areas of learning and development.
▪ Concerns about the child will be noted in the child’s file and discussed with the foster carer.
▪ If the concerns are about the foster carer’s treatment of the child, or if abuse is suspected, these are recorded in the child’s file and reported to the child’s social worker according to the setting’s safeguarding children procedure.
▪ Regular contact should be maintained with the social worker through planned meetings that will include the foster carer.
▪ The transition to school will be handled sensitively. The designated person and/or the child’s key person will liaise with the school, passing on relevant information and documentation with the agreement of the child’s social worker as detailed in the care plan.
Further guidance
▪ Guidance on the Education of Children and Young People in Public Care (DfEE 2000)
▪ Who Does What: How Social Workers and Carers can Support the Education of Looked After Children (DfES 2005)
▪ Supporting Looked After Learners – A Practical Guide for School Governors (DfES 2006)
Online safety (inc. mobile phones and cameras)
The legal framework for this policy is based on:
Purpose To outline the appropriate use of ICT equipment, mobile phones and cameras Scope All staff, students and parents
Responsibility Owner/Manager
Reviewed on 22nd November 2022
Policy statement
We take steps to ensure that there are effective procedures in place to protect children, young people and vulnerable adults from the unacceptable use of Information Communication Technology (ICT) equipment or exposure to inappropriate materials in the setting.
Procedures
Our designated person (manager/deputy) responsible for co-ordinating action taken to protect children is: Lauren Hyde
Information Communication Technology (ICT) equipment
• Only ICT equipment belonging to the setting is used by staff and children.
• The designated person is responsible for ensuring all ICT equipment is safe and fit for purpose. • All computers have virus protection installed.
• The designated person ensures that safety settings are set to ensure that inappropriate material cannot be accessed.
Internet access
▪ Children do not normally have access to the internet and never have unsupervised access.
▪ The designated person has overall responsibility for ensuring that children and young people are safeguarded and risk assessments in relation to online safety are completed.
▪ Children are taught the following stay safe principles in an age appropriate way prior to using the internet;
– only go on line with a grown up
– be kind on line
– keep information about me safely
– only press buttons on the internet to things I understand
– tell a grown up if something makes me unhappy on the internet
▪ Designated persons will also seek to build children’s resilience in relation to issues they may face in the online world, and will address issues such as staying safe, having appropriate friendships, asking for help if unsure, not keeping secrets as part of social and emotional development in age appropriate ways.
▪ If a second hand computer is purchased or donated to the setting, the designated person will ensure that no inappropriate material is stored on it before children use it.
▪ All computers for use by children are located in an area clearly visible to staff.
▪ Children are not allowed to access social networking sites.
▪ Staff report any suspicious or offensive material, including material which may incite racism, bullying or discrimination to the Internet Watch Foundation at www.iwf.org.uk.
▪ Suspicions that an adult is attempting to make inappropriate contact with a child on-line is reported to the National Crime Agency’s Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre at www.ceop.police.uk.
▪ The designated person ensures staff have access to age-appropriate resources to enable them to assist children to use the internet safely.
▪ If staff become aware that a child is the victim of cyber-bullying, they discuss this with their parents and refer them to sources of help, such as the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000 or www.nspcc.org.uk, or Childline on 0800 1111 or www.childline.org.uk.
▪ Children are not permitted to use email in the setting. Parents and staff are not normally permitted to use setting equipment to access personal emails.
▪ Staff do not access personal or work email whilst supervising children.
▪ Staff send personal information by encrypted email and share information securely at all times. This is done by accessing the nursery Egress encryption service.
Mobile phones – children
▪ Children do not bring mobile phones or other ICT devices with them to the setting. If a child is found to have a mobile phone or ICT device with them, this is removed and stored in the nursery safe until the parent collects them at the end of the session.
Mobile phones – staff and visitors
▪ Personal mobile phones are not used by our staff on the premises during working hours. They will be stored in the mobile safe or designated mobile area.
▪ In an emergency, personal mobile phones may be used in an area where there are no children present, with permission from the manager.
▪ Our staff and volunteers ensure that the setting telephone number is known to family and other people who may need to contact them in an emergency.
▪ If our members of staff or volunteers take their mobile phones on outings, for use in case of an emergency, they must not make or receive personal calls, or take photographs of children.
▪ Parents and visitors are requested not to use their mobile phones whilst on the premises.
▪ These rules also apply to the use of work-issued mobiles, and when visiting or supporting staff in other settings.
Cameras and videos
▪ Our staff and volunteers must not bring their personal cameras or video recording equipment into the setting.
▪ Photographs and recordings of children are only taken for valid reasons i.e. to record their learning and development, or for displays within the setting, with written permission received by parents (see the Registration form). Such use is monitored by the manager.
▪ Where parents request permission to photograph or record their own children at special events, general permission is gained from all parents for their children to be included. Parents are advised that they do not have a right to photograph anyone else’s child or to upload photos of anyone else’s children.
▪ If photographs of children are used for publicity purposes, parental consent must be given and safeguarding risks minimised, for example, ensuring children cannot be identified by name or through being photographed in a sweatshirt with the name of their setting on it.
Social media
▪ Staff are advised to manage their personal security settings to ensure that their information is only available to people they choose to share information with.
▪ Staff should not accept service users, children and parents as friends due to it being a breach of expected professional conduct.
▪ In the event that staff name the organisation or workplace in any social media they do so in a way that is not detrimental to the organisation or its service users.
▪ Staff observe confidentiality and refrain from discussing any issues relating to work
▪ Staff should not share information they would not want children, parents or colleagues to view.
▪ Staff should report any concerns or breaches to the designated person in their setting.
▪ Staff avoid personal communication, including on social networking sites, with the children and parents with whom they act in a professional capacity. If a practitioner and family are friendly prior to the child coming into the setting, this information is shared with the manager prior to a child attending and a risk assessment and agreement in relation to boundaries is agreed.
Electronic learning journals for recording children’s progress
▪ Managers seek permission from the senior management team prior to using any online learning journal. A risk assessment is completed with details on how the learning journal is managed to ensure children are safeguarded.
▪ Staff adhere to the guidance provided with the system at all times.
Use and/or distribution of inappropriate images
▪ Staff are aware that it is an offence to distribute indecent images. In the event of a concern that a colleague or other person is behaving inappropriately, the Safeguarding Children and Child Protection policy, in relation to allegations against staff and/or responding to suspicions of abuse, is followed
▪ Staff are aware that grooming children and young people on line is an offence in its own right and concerns about a colleague’s or others’ behaviour are reported (as above).
Further guidance
▪ NSPCC and CEOP Keeping Children Safe Online training: www.nspcc.org.uk/what-you-can-do/get-expert training/keeping-children-safe-online-course/
Late Collection and Non-Collection of Children
The legal framework for this policy is based on:
Purpose To ensure the safety of children on collection and in the event of non-collection Scope All staff, students and parents
Responsibility Owner/Manager
Last Reviewed 1st June 2022
At Heaton House Nursery we expect all parents to agree an approximate time to collect their child from the nursery. We give parents information about the procedures to follow if they expect to be late. These include:
• Agreeing a safety password with the nursery in advance to be used by anyone collecting a child who is not the parent.
• Calling the nursery as soon as possible to advise of their situation
• Asking a designated adult to collect their child wherever possible
• Informing the nursery of this person’s identity (e.g photo posted n Famly) so the nursery can talk to the child if appropriate. This will help to reduce or eliminate any distress caused by this situation
• If the designated person is not known to the nursery staff, the parent must provide a detailed description of this person (A photo where possible), including their date of birth where known. Where this has not occurred staff are unsure of the identity of the designated adult, staff must call the parent to verify the identity of the designated adult.
• This designated person must know the individual child’s safety password in order for the nursery to release the child into their care. This is the responsibility of the parent.
• When the designated person enters the nursery, the parent will be called and authority given to release the child into the designated persons care.
• The procedure should be documented on the back of the register.
If a child has not been collected from the nursery after a reasonable amount of time has been allowed for lateness, we initiate the following procedure
• The nursery manager will be informed that a child has not been collected
• The manager will check for any information regarding changes to normal routines, parents’ work patterns or general information. If there is no information recorded, the manager will try to contact the parents on the telephone numbers provided for their mobile, home or work. If this fails the manager will try the emergency contacts shown on the child’s records
• The manager/staff member in charge and one other member of staff must stay behind with the child (if outside normal operating hours). During normal operating times, the nursery will plan to meet required staff ratios. If the parents have still not collected the child, the manager will telephone all contact numbers available every 10 minutes until contact is made. These calls will be logged on a full incident record
• In the event of no contact being made after one hour has lapsed, the person in charge will ring the local authority children’s social services emergency duty team
• The nursery will inform Ofsted as soon as convenient.
• The two members of staff will remain in the building until suitable arrangements have been made for the collection of the child.
• The child’s welfare and needs will be met at all times and to minimise distress staff will distract, comfort and reassure the child during the process
• If you have welfare concerns and still cannot contact anyone, ring the police on 101, or 999 in an emergency situation. Let them know what you have already done to contact the parent and the time they should have been picked up.
• The police are the only ones with power to remove a child; they will liaise with social care and may start proceedings if appropriate.
• If a pattern starts to develop, or you have other concerns around the child please refer to social care and follow your safeguarding procedures.
• In order to provide this additional care a late fee will be charged to parents. This will pay for any additional operational costs that caring for a child outside their normal nursery hours may incur.
• Professional judgement should be exercised in deciding the appropriate action. Where contact has been made with the parent, where possible, a plan should be made to ensure the swift collection of the child. Only where the parent does not keep to the agreed actions should the Emergency Duty Team be notified.
Agencies to contact if you are concerned about the safety of a child
Children’s Social Services
North East District
Endeavour House
Waters Meeting Road
Bolton BL1 8SW
Astley Bridge, Bradshaw, Breightmet, Bromley Cross, Tonge Moor, Derby
01204 337400
South East District
Farnworth Town Hall
Market Street
Farnworth
Bolton BL4 7PD
Burnden, Daubhill, Farnworth, Harper Green, Kearsley, Little Lever
01204 333555
West District
Le Mans Crescent
Queen Street
Bolton BL1 1SA
Blackrod, Deane, Heaton, Halliwell, Hulton Park, Horwich, Westhoughton
01204 337210
Emergency Duty Team
01204 337777
Child Protection Unit
Endeavour House
Waters Meeting Road
Bolton BL1 8SW
01204 337468
Inter-agency Training
Co-ordinator
Staff Development
Castle Hill Centre
Castleton Street
Bolton BL2 2JW
01204 337612
Greater Manchester Police – Public Protection Investigation Unit (Bolton)
0161 856 6583
Allegations against those in a position of trust.
Agencies to Contact