Policies

• Check that the setting has received written consent
• Ask another member of staff to witness that the correct dosage is given. When the medication has been administered, the designated person must:
  • Record all relevant details on the Record of Medication Given form
  • Ask the child’s parent or carer to sign the form to acknowledge that the medication has been given. When the medication is returned to the child’s parent or carer, the designated person will record this on the Medication Log.

If a child refuses to take their medication, staff will not force them to do so. The manager and the child’s parent or carer will be notified, and the incident recorded on the Record of Medication Given.

Certain medications require specialist training before use, eg Epi Pens. If a child requires such medication the manager will arrange appropriate training as soon as possible. It may be necessary to absent the child until such training has been undertaken. Where specialist training is required, only appropriately trained staff may administer the medication.

A child’s parent or carer must complete a new Permission to Administer Medication form if there are any changes to a child’s medication (including change of dosage or frequency).

If a child suffers from a long term medical condition we will ask the child's parents to provide a medical care plan from their doctor, to clarify exactly what the symptoms and treatment are so that the Club has a clear statement of the child's medical requirements.

This policy was adopted by: Just Like Home Childcare.  Date: 1^st December 2016

To be reviewed: 1^st December 2017. Signed:

Written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2014): Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements: Health [3.45-3.46]

1. Siblings of children already attending the club
2. Those requiring the greatest number of sessions/hours per week
3. Children of West Hove Infants & Junior School, St Andrews C.E Primary School, Deepdene School, Bilingual Primary School and Goldstone School.
4. Children living in the area attending other schools.
5. Sibling of children who live in the area attending other schools.

Registration

When an enquiry regarding places is made, parents or carers will be given all the relevant information, including:

• Information regarding availability of places
• Details of the Admissions and Fees policy
• Registration form, medical form, parent contract, booking form, photo permission form, Behaviour Management policy, Complaints policy.

If a place is available, the parents and child will be invited to visit the setting for an induction. The child will be able to attend the setting as soon as the completed forms are received.  If no places are available the parent will be informed and the child’s name added to the waiting list. As soon as suitable places become available parents will be informed.

Booking Procedure

Parents must complete the necessary paperwork, ie contract, registration, medical, booking and photo permission forms, before their children can attend the Just Like Home Childcare.

• Permanent place: Once booked, if a child does not attend for any reason, you will still be charged for this place. If you wish to cancel the place altogether, one month’s notice in writing is required.
• Temporary booking: We will accept temporary or occasional bookings as long as there are places available. If a temporary place has been booked and is no longer required, we must be given 48 hours notice. If notice is not given, the place will still be charged for.
• Fee structure: Fees are charged at a fixed rate for after school club @ £20 per session to include a hot meal with a dessert. Kindergarten fees are to be announced soon. We recognise that childcare can be costly, so we encourage eligible parents or carers to claim the childcare element of the Working Tax Credit. We are also registered to accept many childcare vouchers. Please speak to a member of management or the office for details on this.
• Fees are payable monthly in advance.
• Fees can be paid by cheque, electronic transfer, cash or direct debit.
• There is a charge of £5 per 10 minutes for late collection, which will be added to the next invoice.
• Just Like Home Childcare charges a registration/booking fee of £25.00 per child.
• Just Like Home Childcare reserves the right to charge an additional booking fee for multiple changes to a child’s sessions and payment plan within the contracted period. This will also be £25.00.
• Fees are charged for booked sessions whether the child attends or not.
• We will consider requests for variation to payment terms on an individual basis. Anyone making these requests should contact the manager at the earliest opportunity. Any queries regarding fees should be directed to the manager. If fees are not paid, we will write to the parent or carer, requesting payment. If the parents or carers are having difficulty making the payment on time we recommend that they arrange a meeting with the manager as soon as possible. Where there is no explanation for repeated late payment, the manager will contact the parents or carers to discuss payment options. The manager may issue a formal warning to the parent or carer informing them that continued late payment will result in their child’s place at Just Like Home Childcare being withdrawn. If the fees remain unpaid after all the above options have been explored, we may have to cancel the child’s place.

This policy was adopted by Just Like home Childcare. Date: 1^st December 2016

To be reviewed: 1^st December 2017.  Signed:

Written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2014): Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements: Information and records [3.68-3.75]

Just Like Home Childcare does not tolerate from any person, whether a parent, carer or visitor: bullying, aggressive, confrontational or threatening behaviour, or behaviour intended to result in conflict. Our setting is a place of safety and security for the children who attend and for the staff who work here.

Unacceptable behaviour

Unacceptable behaviour includes, but is not limited to, the following: -

• Shouting at members of staff, whether in person or over the telephone.
• Physically intimidating a member of staff, e.g. standing too close or blocking their exit.
• Using aggressive or abusive hand gestures, e.g. shaking a fist towards another person.
• Any other threatening behaviour, both physical and verbal.
• Physical violence: pushing, hitting, slapping, punching or kicking.
• Racist or sexist or otherwise abusive comments.

At Just Like Home Childcare we do not tolerate such behaviour whether it is directed at the staff or at any of the children in our care.

Procedure

If a parent, carer or member of the public behaves in an unacceptable way towards a member of staff or a child attending our setting, we will take the following steps: -

• In order to ensure the safety of the children and to limit possible distress, we will remove them from the vicinity of the incident.
• The manager or senior member of staff will seek to resolve the situation through calm discussion.
• If the individual wishes to make a complaint we will encourage them to follow our Complaints procedure, or to complain directly to Ofsted if they so choose.
• If the individual continues to behave in an aggressive and intimidating manner, we will insist that they calm down or leave the premises immediately.
• If the individual refuses to calm down or leave the premises, the manager will contact the police without delay.

When the immediate incident has been resolved, the manager and staff will reflect on the incident and decide whether it is appropriate to ban the individual from the premises for a period of time. The decision will take into account both the seriousness of the incident and whether the individual has behaved aggressively before. If we decide that a ban is appropriate, we will write to the individual concerned to inform them of the reasons for the ban and its duration.

Related policies

See also: Equalities policy, Complaints policy, Safeguarding policy.

This policy was adopted by: Just Like Home Childcare.  Date: 1^st December 2016

To be reviewed: 1^st December 2017.  Signed:

Written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2014): Safeguarding

and Welfare requirements: Introduction [3.2].

Just Like Home Childcare recognises the importance of having robust systems in place to ensure the safe arrival and departure of the children in our care.  The manager will ensure that an accurate record is kept of all children in the setting, and that any arrivals or departures are recorded in the register. The register is kept in an accessible location

on the premises at all times.    In addition, we conduct regular headcounts during the session.

Escorting children to the Club

• The Club and schools that we collect from have a clear agreement concerning the transfer of responsibility for children’s safety.
• We have risk assessed the routes used to escort children to the Club and review them regularly.
• Children will be collected from their own classrooms or if appropriate for the age of the child then at a designated meeting place within the playground by prior arrangement. Parents, class teachers and the children are all made aware of the arrangements.
• Each individual school that we collect from is notified that we are authorised to collect the relevant children and on what days.
• For older children who are not required to be collected by us from school, but still attend after school club, we have a separate Independent Arrival Policy.
• If a child is booked into the Club but is not at the collection point, we will check whether the child was present at school that day. If the whereabouts of the child is not known, staff will immediately inform the designated contact at the school and ask the school to implement its Missing Child

Arrivals

Our staff will greet each child warmly on their arrival at our setting and will record the child’s attendance in the daily register straightaway, including the time of arrival.

Departures

• Staff will ensure that parents or carers sign children out before they leave, including the time of collection. If a child is collected by another named adult, then they will be required to sign them out in the same way.
• Children are only collected by an adult who has been authorised to do so on their registration form.
• In exceptional circumstances, if the parent requires another person who is not listed on the registration form to collect their child, the child’s parents or carers must inform us in advance and provide a description of the person and a password that they will use. If the manager has any concerns regarding the person collecting he/she will contact the main parent or carer for confirmation.
• The parent or carer must notify us if they will be late collecting their child. If we are not informed, the Uncollected Children policy will be followed.
• Children over the age of eight will only be allowed to leave the Club alone at the end of the session if the Club has discussed this with the child’s parents and has received their written consent.
• Children below the age of eight will not be allowed to leave the Club unaccompanied under any circumstance.

Absences

• If a child is going to be absent from a session, parents must notify the office in advance.
• If a child is absent without explanation, staff will contact the parents or carers and the school to check where the child should be. If staff still have concerns about the child’s whereabouts after attempts to contact the parents and the school the manager will contact the police.
• Just Like Home Childcare will try to discover the causes of prolonged and unexplained absences. Regular absences could indicate that a child or their family might need additional support.

This policy was adopted by: Just Like Home Childcare. Date: 1^st December 2016

To be reviewed: 1^st December 2017 Signed:

Induction for new children: -

• The new child will be introduced to all members of staff and informed about any other regular visitors to the setting.
• EYFS children and their parents will be introduced to their key workers.
• Just Like Home Childcare’s activities, rules and routines, such as snacks, signing in and signing out, will be explained.
• The child will be shown around the setting and told where they can and cannot go.
• The fire evacuation procedure and the locations of all fire exits will be explained.
• The child will be introduced to the other children at the setting and allocated a ‘buddy’ who will assist them with finding their way around and involving them in activities.
• Staff will keep a close eye on the new child and will ensure that they are happy, engaged and feel secure in the setting environment. If a child seems to be taking an unusually long time to settle in, this will be discussed with their parents or carers to see what can be done to make the transition easier.

This policy was adopted by: Just Like Home Childcare. Date: 2^nd December 2016

To be reviewed: 2^nd December 2017.  Signed:

Written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2014): Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements: Information and Records [3.72-3.73]; Safety and Suitability of Premises, Environment and Equipment [3.55]

Just Like Home Childcare recognises that many plants are poisonous if eaten or capable of causing allergic reactions if handled.  Accordingly, no plants on the list of the dangerous plants shown below are allowed on the premises without first conducting a risk assessment to review the degree of risk posed to the children. The outside play area at St Philips Church Hall has also been checked for the dangerous plants listed below.

Where a potentially dangerous plant exists and we are unable to remove it, we have conducted a risk assessment which takes into account:

• The ages and maturity of the children.
• The degree of supervision required.
• Whether we need to restrict access to affected areas.
• How children with allergies might be affected.

The following is a list of the most commonly found plants that staff should be aware of as posing a possible hazard. Note that this list is not fully comprehensive.

Key: E = Harmful if eaten, T = Harmful if touched

This policy was adopted by: just Like Home Childcare on Date:30.11.2016

To be reviewed: 30.11.2017 Signed:

Written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2014):

Written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2014): Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements: Safety and Suitability of Premises, Environment and Equipment

[3.54, 3.64]

• Respect the different racial origins, religions, cultures and languages in a multi-ethnic society so that each child is valued as an individual without racial or gender stereotyping.
• Not discriminate against children on the grounds of disability, sexual orientation, class, family status or HIV/Aids status.
• Help all children to celebrate and express their cultural and religious identity by providing a wide range of appropriate resources and activities.
• Strive to ensure that children feel good about themselves and others, by celebrating the differences which make us all unique individuals.
• Ensure that its services are available to all parents/carers and children in the local community.
• Ensure that our recruitment policies and procedures are open, fair and non-discriminatory.
• Work to fulfil all the legal requirements of the Equality Act 2010.
• We will monitor and review the effectiveness of our inclusive practice by conducting an Inclusion Audit on an annual basis. Challenging inappropriate attitudes and practices. We will challenge inappropriate attitudes and practices by engaging children and adults in discussion, by displaying positive images of race and disability, and through our staff modelling anti-discriminatory behaviour at all times.

Racial Harassment

Just Like Home Childcare will not tolerate any form of racial harassment. We will challenge racist and discriminatory remarks, attitudes and behaviour from the children in our care, from staff and from any other adults on the premises (eg parents/carers collecting children).

Promoting Equal Opportunities

Just Like Home Childcare’s Equal Opportunities Named Coordinator (ENCO) is Katie Heal. The ENCO is responsible for ensuring that: -

• Staff receive relevant and appropriate training.
• The Equalities policy is consistent with current legislation and guidance.
• Appropriate action is taken wherever discriminatory behaviour, language or attitudes occur.

Children with Additional Needs

Just Like Home Childcare recognises that some children have additional needs or physical disabilities that require particular support and assistance. We will assess the individual needs of each child in consultation with their parents prior to their attending our setting, and will make reasonable adjustments to ensure that children can access our services and are made to feel welcome.

Where one-to-one support is required we will assist parents in accessing the funding required to provide the additional care.

Special Educational Needs Coordinator

The Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) is Katie Heal. The SENCO will:

• Manage the provision for children with special educational needs or physical disabilities.
• Be fully trained and experienced in the care and assessment of such children. All members of staff will assist the SENCO in caring for children with additional needs or physical disabilities.

This policy was adopted by: Just Like Home Childcare.  Date: 2^nd December 2016

To be reviewed: 2nd December 2017.  Signed:

• Staff are aware of the location of all fire exits, the fire assembly point and where fire safety equipment is stored.
• Children are introduced to the fire safety procedures during their settling in period and through regular fire drills.
• Fire drills are conducted at least once a month or whenever new staff or children join the setting.
• All children are shown the location of fire exits and the fire assembly point.
• Fire doors and fire exits are clearly marked, are not obstructed at any time and are easily opened from the inside.
• Fire doors are kept closed at all times but never locked.
• Fire extinguishers and smoke alarms are regularly tested in accordance with manufacturer’s guidance.
• All fire drills are recorded in the Fire Drill Log.

We have notices explaining the fire procedures which are positioned next to every fire exit.

Fire Prevention

Just Like Home Childcare will take all steps possible to prevent fires occurring by:

• Ensuring that power points are not overloaded with adaptors.
• Ensuring that the No Smoking policy is always observed.
• Checking for frayed or trailing wires.
• Checking that fuses are replaced safely.
• Unplugging all equipment before leaving the premises.
• Storing any potentially flammable materials safely. In the event of a fire
• A member of staff will raise the alarm and call the emergency services.
• The children will immediately be escorted out of the building to the assembly point using the nearest marked exit.
• No attempt will be made to collect personal belongings, or to re-enter the building after evacuation.
• The premises will be checked by the Fire Safety Officer and the register will be collected, providing that it is safe to do so.
• The Fire Safety Officer will close all doors and windows to prevent the spread of fire when they leave the building if it is safe to do so.
• The register will be taken and all children and staff accounted for.
• If anyone is missing from the register, the emergency services will be informed.
• If the register is not available the manager will use the emergency contacts list (which is kept off the premises) to contact parents or carers.
• If the Fire Safety Officer is not present at the time of the incident, the manager will assume responsibility or nominate a replacement member of staff.

Responsibilities of the Fire Safety Officer

Just Like Home Childcare’s Designated Fire Safety Officer is Katie Heal. The Fire Safety Officer is responsible for carrying out the fire safety risk assessment and for ensuring that all staff are made aware of fire safety procedures during their Induction period.

This policy was adopted by: Just Like Home Childcare.  Date: 2^nd December 2016

To be reviewed: 2^nd December 2017.  Signed:

• Maintaining a safe environment.
• Taking reasonable care for the health and safety of themselves and others attending the setting.
• Reporting all accidents and incidents which have caused injury or damage or may do so in the future.
• Undertaking relevant health and safety training when required to do so by the manager. Any member of staff who disregards safety instructions or recognised safe practices will be subject to disciplinary procedures.

Responsibilities of the Registered Person

The registered person for the setting holds ultimate responsibility and liability for the safe operation of the provision. The registered person will ensure that:-

• The designated health and safety officer is Katie Heal.
• All staff receive information on health and safety matters, and receive training where necessary.
• The Health and Safety policy and procedures are reviewed regularly.
• Staff understand and follow health and safety procedures.
• Resources are provided to meet the health and safety responsibilities.
• All accidents, incidents and dangerous occurrences are properly reported and recorded. This includes informing Ofsted, child protection agencies and the Health and Safety Executive under RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995) where appropriate.
• All reported accidents, incidents and dangerous occurrences are reviewed, so that preventative measures can be taken.

Responsibilities of the Manager

The manager is responsible for ensuring that at each session:-

• Premises are clean, well lit, adequately ventilated and maintained at an appropriate temperature.
• The premises are used by and solely available to Just Like Home Childcare during opening hours.
• All the equipment is safely and securely stored.
• Children are only allowed in the kitchen if properly supervised (eg for a cooking activity)
• A working telephone is available on the premises at all times
• Chemicals and cleaning materials are stored appropriately, and in accordance with COSHH data sheets.
• External pathways are cleared in severe weather.
• Daily environment checks are carried out in accordance with our Risk Assessment policy.

Security

• Children are not allowed to leave the premises during the session unless prior permission has been given by the parents (for example, to attend other extra-curricular activities).
• During sessions all external doors are kept locked, with the exception of fire doors. Staff monitor the entrances and exits to the premises throughout the session.
• All visitors to the hall must sign the Visitor Log and give the reason for their visit. Visitors will never be left alone with the children.
• Security procedures will be regularly reviewed by the manager, in consultation with staff and parents.

Toys and Equipment

• All furniture, toys and equipment are kept clean, well maintained and in good repair.
• We select toys, equipment and resources with care, and we carry out risk assessments before the children are allowed to use them.
• Broken toys and equipment are disposed of promptly.
• We ensure that any flammable equipment is stored safely.

Food and Personal Hygiene

Staff at Just Like Home Childcare maintain high standards of personal hygiene, and take all practicable steps to prevent and control the spread of infection.

• A generally clean environment is maintained at all times.
• Toilets are cleaned daily and soap and hand drying facilities are always available.
• Staff are trained in food hygiene and follow appropriate guidelines.
• Waste is disposed of safely and all bins are kept covered.
• Staff ensure that children wash their hands before handling food or drink and after using the toilet.
• Cuts and abrasions (whether on children or staff) are kept covered.
• Dealing with body fluids Spillages of blood, vomit, urine and faeces will be cleaned up immediately and staff will always wear gloves.

Staffing Levels

Staff ratios and levels of supervision are always appropriate to the number, ages and abilities of the children present, and to the risks associated with the activities being undertaken.

Related Policies

See also our related policies: Illness and Accidents, Emergency Evacuation, Healthy Eating, Safeguarding, Administering Medication, Risk Assessment, Manual Handling, Fire Safety, and Intimate Care, Visitor.

This policy was adopted by: Just Like Home Childcare.  Date:2^nd December 2016

To be reviewed: 2^nd December 2017.  Signed:

Written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2014): Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements: Safety and suitability of premises, environment and equipment [3.54-3.64].

We ask parents to notify us regarding any special dietary requirements or allergies when they register their child.

Information regarding food allergies is recorded on the Allergy Information Board which is visible to staff whilst food is being prepared.

Just like Homecare promotes healthy eating and leads by example. Staff responsible for food preparation, handling and storage has received appropriate training.

• We provide suitable healthy snacks for all the children. These will consist of a carbohydrate, fruit and drink of water, squash or milk .A hot tea will be served this will consist of a hot dish and a pudding.
• Children are encouraged to develop good eating skills and table manners.
• All children are given plenty of time to eat.
• Where appropriate, children are involved in planning and preparing food and snacks.
• Fresh drinking water is available at all times.
• Fresh fruit is available at all sessions.
• Withholding food is never used as a form of punishment.
• Staff discuss with children the importance of a balanced diet where appropriate.
• The Club does not regularly provide sweets for children.
• We limit access to fatty or sugary foods.
• Children are never forced to eat or drink anything against their will.

This policy was adopted by Just like homecare

Date 1^st Dec 2016

To be reviewed:1st Dec 2017

Signed

Written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2014):

Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements: Food and drink [3.47-3.48].

All parents or carers must complete the Medical Form when their child joins the Club,

requesting permission for emergency medical treatment for their child in the event of a serious accident or illness.

We will record any accidents or illnesses, together with any treatment given, on an Incident

Record or Accident Record sheet as appropriate, which the parent or carer will be asked to sign when they collect their child

Just like home childcare cannot accept any children who are ill at the setting. If any children are ill when they first arrive at the Club we will immediately notify their parents or carers to come and collect them. Any children who have been ill should not return to the Club until they have fully recovered, or Any children who have been ill should not return to the Club until they have fully recovered, or after the maximum period has expired.

First aid

The Club’s designated First Aider has a current first aid certificate and has attended a 12 hour paediatric first aid course. To ensure that there is a qualified first aider present at every session of the club, other members of staff will receive first aid training. members of staff will also receive first aid training. We will take into account the number of

.

The location of the first aid box and a list of qualified first aiders are clearly displayed at the

Club. The designated First Aider regularly checks the contents of the first aid box to ensure that they are up to date, appropriate for children and comply with the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981

The manager will ensure that a first aid kit is taken on all outings and that at least one member of staff on the outing holds a current paediatric first aid certificate

.

Procedure for a minor injury or illness

The first aider at the session will decide upon the appropriate action to take if a child becomes ill or suffers a minor injury.

• If a child becomes ill during a session, the parent or carer will be asked to collect the

child as soon as possible. The child will be kept comfortable and will be closely

supervised while awaiting collection.

• If a child complains of illness which does not impair their overall wellbeing, the child will be

Monitored for the rest of the session and the parent or carer will be notified when the child is collected.

• If a child suffers a minor injury, first aid will be administered and the child will be

monitored for the remainder of the session. If necessary, the child’s parent will be asked

to collect the child as soon as possible.

Procedure for a major injury or serious illness

In the event of a child becoming seriously ill or suffering a major injury, the first aider at the

session will decide whether the child needs to go straight to hospital or whether it is safe to wait for the parent/carer to arrive.

• If the child needs to go straight to hospital, we will call an ambulance and a member of

staff will go to the hospital with the child. The staff member will take the child’s Medical

Form with them and will consent to any necessary treatment (as approved by the parents

on the Medical Form).

• We will contact the child’s parents or carers with all urgency, and if they are unavailable

we will call the other emergency contacts that we have on file for the child.

• After a major incident the manager and staff will review the events and consider whether

any changes need to be made to the Club’s policies or procedures

.

• We will notify Ofsted and child protection agencies in the event of any serious accident

or injury to a child in our care as soon as reasonably possible and within 14 days at the

latest.

• We will notify HSE under RIDDOR in the case of a death or major injury on the premises

(eg broken limb, amputation, dislocation, etc – see the HSE website for a full list of

reportable injuries

Communicable diseases and conditions

If a case of head lice is found at the Club, the child’s parents or carers will be discreetly

informed when they collect the child. Other parents will be warned to check their own children

for head lice, but care will be taken not to identify the child affected.

If an infectious or communicable disease is detected on the Club’s premises, we will inform

parents and carers as soon as possible.

If there is an incident of food poisoning affecting two or more children looked after at the Club

the Manager will inform Ofsted as soon as possible and within 14 days at the latest.

If there is an outbreak of a notifiable disease at the Club, we will inform the local health

protection unit, HSE under RIDDOR (if appropriate), and Ofsted.

Useful contacts

Ofsted: 0300 123 1231

RIDDOR Incident Contact Unit: 0845 300 99 23

We will need to be aware in advance their expected times of arrival, if they are staying at school for a club, sports fixture etc. we will need to be notified. If there are any unexpected changes we request that you as their parent inform us and that the onus is not on the child to do so.

If your child fails to arrive at the expected time, we will try to contact them if they have a mobile phone to confirm their whereabouts otherwise we will contact yourself. If  we are unable to make contact with your child or yourself we will then contact the school. In the unlikely event that your child’s school does not know their whereabouts we will then contact the police for further guidance.

This policy and the procedure is not meant to alarm you but to reassure you that we are providing the best care possible for your child and that their safety is paramount.

If you are planning for your child to arrive independently please let us know so we can ensure that everybody involved is fully aware of these procedures and any alterations made to them.

We will make certain that the agreement for your child to arrive independently is noted on your registration form and that we both sign to confirm our agreement.

• Inviting parents to visit the setting before their children starts.
• We also give parents a copy of our Behaviour Management policy and, for EYFS children, information about the role of their child’s key person.
• Notifying the parents of their child’s key person when they start with us.
• Making all of our policies available for parents to consult whenever they like. All of our policies are also available to view on our website jlhcc.co.uk
• Producing a regular newsletter to keep parents up to date with news, events, new staff, changes to fees, etc.
• Using daily diaries to share information between the parents and us (for EYFS children or when a specific need is identified).

We actively welcome parents and invite their input into the setting in the following ways:-

• We collect information from parents which will help their child to settle with us (via the Registration and Medical forms and, for EYFS children, the All Forms booklet).
• We involve parents in settling their children in at the Club (in accordance with our Child Induction policy).
• We consult fully with parents to establish the care requirements for children with additional needs.
• We greet all parents when they arrive to collect their children, and exchange any relevant information (eg any accidents, participation in today’s activities, etc).
• We can be contacted at all times, even out of opening hours, via telephone and email.
• We encourage parents to volunteer, share specialist skills/knowledge, help on outings, etc.
• We obtain parental permission for outings, photographs, applying sun cream, etc.
• We can arrange for parental discussions with staff outside of opening hours if necessary.
• We respect parents’ input and opinions by responding promptly and appropriately to any complaints, in line with our Complaints policy.

This policy was adopted by Just Like Home Childcare. Date: 2^nd December 2016

To be reviewed: 2^nd December 2017.  Signed:

Written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2014): Learning and Development Requirements [1.1]; Areas of Learning and Development [1.10]; Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements [3.27]; Before/after school care and holiday provision [3.40]

paramount. It is best practice for at least two members of staff to be on duty at any one time, but situations may arise where only one member of staff will be on duty, In this case we will follow the procedures set out in this policy.

Preparation and planning

The Manager must approve all instances of lone working in advance and such instances will be recorded on the staff rota.

Parents will be notified if only one member of staff will be on duty for a session or part of a session.

A full risk assessment for lone working must be carried out before lone working is approved.

Our insurers have confirmed that our club is covered in situations when only one member of staff is on duty

In addition, an ‘on call’ person whom the member of staff can summon in an emergency will be nominated for each session. The ‘on call’ person must be able to be on site within 5 minutes.

Suitable staff

Staff members who are suitable for lone working will be approved in advance. Staff members approved for lone working must have all the relevant qualifications, training and skills.

For example:

Holds a current 12 hour paediatric first aid certificate

Has had child protection training

Has food handling and hygiene certificate

Has competent use of English

Has the necessary skills and experience to supervise the children alone

 Does not have any medical condition that might affect their suitability to work alone.

 Is familiar with the emergency evacuation procedure – and how this can be adapted to

lone working situations

Lone working situations

When a member of staff is working alone, they must still keep all children “within sight or

hearing at all times” as required by EYFS 2014. Therefore all essential resources must be readily to hand and not kept in a separate part of the building.

 child records

 emergency contact details

 first aid kit

 club mobile phone

 any forms that may be required during a session, eg accident and incident logs, logging

concern form, collection by unknown person, visitor log, etc

 spills box / cleaning products / sick bowl

If intimate care is given, a record will be made using an Incident log and parents will be asked to sign this on collection of their child.

Related policies

See also: Safeguarding policy, Emergency evacuation policy, Intimate care policy, Illness and

accidents policy, Risk assessment policy.

This policy was adopted by: Just like home childcare

Date 1^st Dec 2016

To be reviewed: 1^st Dec 2017

Signed

Written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2014):

Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements: Child protection [3.5-3.6], Suitable people [3.19], Staff

qualifications, training, support and skills [3.25 – 3.26], Key person [3.27], Staff:child ratios [3.28-3.29,

3.40], Food and drink [3.48], Accident or injury [3.50], Premises [3.55, 3.58], Risk assessment [3.64

If a child cannot be located, the following steps will be taken:-

• All staff will be informed that the child is missing.
• Staff will conduct a thorough search of the premises and surrounding area.
• After 10 minutes the police will be informed. The manager will then contact the child’s parents or carers.
• Staff will continue to search for the child whilst waiting for the police and parents to arrive.
• We will maintain as normal a routine as possible for the rest of the children at the setting.
• The manager will liaise with the police and the child’s parent or carer.

The incident will be recorded in the Incident Log. A review will be conducted regarding this and any other related incidents along with relevant policies and procedures. We will identify and implement any changes as necessary.

If the police or Social Care were involved in the incident, we will also inform Ofsted.

Useful numbers Police: 01273 475432.  Social Care: 01273 295920. Ofsted: 0300 123 1231

This policy was adopted by: Just Like Home Childcare. Date: 2^nd December 2016

To be reviewed: 2^nd December 2017.  Signed:

Written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2014) :Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements: Information for parents and carers [3.73] .

 Protect children from harm and abuse

 Prevent staff from being subject to false allegations

 Help staff remain focused on the care of children

Work in an open and transparent environment.

Staff use of mobile phones

Personal mobile phones belonging to members of staff are kept box in the Kitchen during working hours.

If a member of staff needs to make an urgent personal call they can use the club phone or make a personal call from the club phone or in the designated area.

If a member of staff has a family emergency or similar and needs to keep their mobile phone to hand, prior permission must be sought from the Manager or Deputy.

Under no circumstances may staff use their personal mobile phones to take photographs at the club during working hours.

Children’s use of mobile phones

Whilst we understand that some children have mobile phones, we actively discourage them from using their phones within the club. All children’s mobile phones will be stored in a secure box until they are collected from the club.

The club does not accept any responsibility for loss or damage to mobile phones brought to the club by the children.

Children must not use their mobile phone to take photographs of any kind whilst at the club. If they want a photograph of a particular activity they can ask a member of staff to take one using the club camera.

Visitors’ use of mobile phones

In the interest of safeguarding we ask all parents and visitors not to use their phones or other mobile devices on club premises. Taking of photographs by parents or visitors is strictly prohibited. If a parent wishes to take a photograph of their child’s activity or play

They can ask a member of staff to do so using the clubs camera.

Related policies

See also: Safeguarding Children policy.

This policy was adopted by: Just like home childcare

Date 1^st Dec 2016

To be reviewed by 1^st Dec 2017

Signed:

Written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2014): Safeguarding and Welfare requirements: Child Protection [3.4].

how they learn and enjoy themselves.

According to the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2014), “Play is

essential for children’s development building their confidence as they learn to explore to think in play about problems and relate to others. Children learn by leading their own play and by taking part in play which is guided by adults.”

At Just like homecare we recognise the importance of play to a child’s development and follow the Playwork Principles. As play workers we support and facilitate play, and do not seek to control or direct it. We will never force children to participate in play, but allow children to initiate and direct the experience f about problems and relate to others. Children learn by leading their own play and by taking part

Facilitating play

We support and facilitate play by:

• Providing an environment which is safe and suitable for playing in.

• Setting up the Club so that activities are ready before the children arrive.

• Providing a range of equipment, resources and activities on a daily basis, and keeping a

record of these to ensure that varied play opportunities are offered.

• Encouraging children to request additional or alternative equipment as they choose and if a request have to be refused, explaining why.

• Not expecting children to be occupied at all times.

• Making outdoor play available every day, unless the weather is particularly bad.

• Involving children in planning activities, to reflect their own interests and ideas.

• Planning activities that enable children to develop their natural curiosity and imagination.

• Allowing children freedom of creative expression, particularly in artistic or creative play.

• Intervening in play only when necessary: to reduce risks of accident or injury, or to

encourage appropriate social skills.

• Warning children in advance when an activity or game is due to end.

Play areas and equipment

• All indoor and outdoor play areas are checked and risk assessed daily before the children

arrive in accordance with our Risk Assessment policy.

• The Club keeps an inventory of resources and equipment, which is updated regularly and

reviewed to identify where any additional resources are required.

• Children are involved in selecting additional equipment and resources for use at the Club.

• The resources used at the Club promote positive images of different ethnic backgrounds,

religions, and abilities, in line with our Equal Opportunities policy.

• The Club has a selection of fiction and non-fiction books, suitable for all age ranges.

This policy was adopted by Just like Homecare

Date: 1st Dec 2016

To be reviewed: 1^st Dec 2017

Signed:

Written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2014): Areas

of Learning and Development [1.8]; Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements: Safety and Suitability of

Premises, Environment and Equipment [3.64]

I comply with the requirements of the Prevent Duty Guidance and its aim to protect children from radicalisation, extremism and being drawn into terrorism.

Early years providers serve arguably the most vulnerable and impressionable members of society. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) accordingly places clear duties on providers to keep children safe and promote their welfare. It makes clear that to protect children in their care, providers must be alert to any safeguarding and child protection issues in the child’s life at home or elsewhere (paragraph 3.4 EYFS). Early years providers must take action to protect children from harm and should be alert to harmful behaviour by other adults in the child’s life.

Early years providers already focus on children’s personal, social and emotional development The Early Years Foundation Stage framework supports early years providers to do this in an age appropriate way, through ensuring children learn right from wrong, mix and share with other children and value other’s views, know about similarities and differences between themselves and others, and challenge negative attitudes and stereotypes.

This guidance should be read in conjunction with other relevant guidance. In England, this includes Working Together to Safeguard Children, Keeping Children Safe in Education and

Information Sharing: Her Majesty’s Government advice for professionals providing safeguarding services to children, young people, parents and carers.

Early education funding regulations in England have been amended to ensure that providers who fail to promote the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance for those with different faiths and beliefs do not receive funding from local authorities for the free early years entitlement.

Ofsted’s current inspection framework for early years provision reflects the requirements in the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage.

Prevent work depends on effective partnership. To demonstrate effective compliance with the duty, I must demonstrate evidence of productive co-operation, in particular with local Prevent co-ordinators, the police and local authorities, and co-ordination through existing multi-agency forums, for example Community Safety Partnerships.

If we have any concerns or questions regarding Prevent Duty at our setting, we will contact our Local Authority in Brighton and Hove

Brighton & Hove City Council
King's House
Grand Avenue
Hove
BN3 2LS

Phone: 01273 290000
Email: info@brighton-hove.gov.uk
Online form

When working with the Early Years age group these values need to be meaningful and age appropriate.

Democracy: Making decisions together

• Encourage children to know their views count
• Value each other's feelings
• Talk about feelings
• Making decisions about things that affect daily activities e.g. choosing role play themes
• Activities that involve turn taking, sharing and collaboration
• Opportunities for critical thinking and questioning

Rule of Law: Understanding rules matter

• Activities where children understand their own and other's behaviour and it's consequences
• Distinguishing right from wrong
• Creating shared classroom rules/common codes of behaviour
• Promoting an understanding that rules apply to everyone e.g. tidying up

Individual Liberty: Freedom for all

• Encouraging children to develop a positive sense of themselves
• Opportunities for developing self-knowledge, self-esteem and increase self-confidence through celebrating individual success
• Activities which encourage the language of feelings and an appreciation of the feelings of others
• Activities which encourage discussions and celebration of all our similarities and differences
• Creating an ethos which encourages and respects different opinions

Mutual Respect and Tolerance: treat others as you want to be treated

• Creating an inclusive environment and ethos where everyone is valued and differences are portrayed positively
• Positive relationships promoted with parents/carers and wider community
• Activities which encourage an understanding of and respect one's own cultures and beliefs and that of others
• Activities which encourage positive social behaviours such as sharing and kindness towards others
• Activities and resources which promote diverse attitudes and challenge gender, cultural and racial stereotypes and value the diversity of children's experiences.

• Attract and select the best possible applicants to vacancies
• Deter, identify and reject prospective applicants who are unsuitable for work with children or young people
• Meet statuary requirements of the Equality Act 2010
• Treat all applicants fairly and clearly.

Recruitment and Selection Procedures

At Just Like Home Childcare we are vigilant in our recruitment procedures. We follow this procedure every time we recruit a new staff member to our team.

Identification of recruiting panel

• We have a minimum of two people on our recruiting panel. The same two people are involved in every step of the process. These people are Katie Heal and Sam Collins.
• At least one member of the panel will have attended training in safe recruitment procedures. (Sam Collins has carried out ‘Safer Recruitment’ Training.)

Advertising

• We use childcare.co.uk to advertise vacancies and sometimes use local newspapers and websites.
• All our adverts include reference to our ‘recruitment and selection policy statement’ which gives details of our equal opportunities policy and safe recruitment procedures and is available to all candidates.  See below: -

“Just Like Home Childcare is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All applicants are subject to a satisfactory enhanced check by the Disclosure and Barring Service (previously the Criminal Records Bureau) and at least two independent references”.

Job application pack / recruitment materials

• Any person enquiring about the post will be supplied with a job application pack which as a minimum, will include:
  • Job description and person specification
  • An application form
  • A copy of our recruitment and selection policy
• All applicants must complete, in full, an application form. CV’s will be accepted and considered, but only alongside an application form.

Short-listing

• We shortlist all candidates against the person specification for the post.
• We ensure all applicants receive correspondence regardless of whether they are successful in reaching the interview stage or not.
• We welcome applications from all sections of the community. Applicants will be considered on the basis of their suitability for the post, regardless of their marital status, age, gender, culture, religious belief, ethnic origin or sexual orientation.

Interview stage

• Interviews will always be face to face.
• A minimum of two people, usually the manager and the deputy or person responsible for recruitment, will sit on the interview panel. Both will be involved in the overall decision making.
• At the interview, each candidate will be required to prove their identity against photo ID (for example a passport and birth certificate or driving licence), prove they are qualified by providing actual certificates and provide documents to prove they are eligible to work in the UK.
• At the interview, candidates will be questioned using the same set criteria and same questions. The questions will be formulated from the essential criteria listed in the person specification and specific areas of childcare.
• Candidates will be given a score for their answers.
• Candidates will always be required

• to explain satisfactorily any gaps in employment
• to explain satisfactorily any anomalies or discrepancies in the information available
• to declare any information that is likely to appear on a DBS disclosure
• to demonstrate their capacity to safeguard and protect the welfare of children and young people

• Each shortlisted candidate will be asked to take part in a practical exercise or trial session, which will involve spending time in the setting interacting with the children, staff and where appropriate, the parents.
• The manager and deputy will then select the most suitable person for this position based on these scores and their knowledge and understanding of the early years framework as well as the needs of the setting.
• Each candidate will receive communication from Just Like Home Childcare stating whether they have been successful or not.

Further pre-employment checks 

• The successful candidate will be offered the position subject to at least two references from previous employment or in the case of a newly qualified student, their tutor and a personal or professional reference. These references will be taken up BEFORE employment commences.
• References will be sought directly from the employees. References or testimonials provided by the candidate will never be accepted.
• Referees will always be asked specific questions about: -
  • the candidates suitability for working with children and young people
  • any disciplinary warnings, including time expired warnings that relate to the safeguarding of children
  • the candidates suitability to do the new post

• The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced police check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) prior to starting work.

• The new employee, both volunteers and paid staff, will not have unsupervised access to any children in the setting before the DBS check comes back and a decision is made about that person’s suitability. In addition they will not take photographs of children, will not have access to any child’s records and learning & development information and will not change the nappy of any child.

• All qualifications will be checked against actual certificates and copies taken for their personnel files.

Induction

• For all new staff, a clearly written and structured induction programme is in place that includes training, shadowing and opportunities to read and discuss policies and procedures.
• The induction plan sets out what new staff members will cover before beginning work and throughout the 3 month induction period.
• All new staff will be allocated a buddy / mentor who will introduce them to the way in which the setting operates.
• Throughout the induction period, all new staff members will have regular formal supervision 1:1 meetings with the manager and their mentor to discuss how it’s going and identify any further training and development needs.  This will be followed up by a three month review at the end of the probationary period.

In line with current health and safety legislation and the EYFS Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements 2014, we will carry out regular risk assessments and take appropriate action to deal with any hazards or risks identified. It is the responsibility of the manager to ensure that risk assessments are conducted, monitored and acted upon.

Risk assessments will be carried out:-

• Whenever there is any change to equipment or resources
• When there is any change to the Club’s premises
• When the particular needs of a child necessitates this
• When we take the children on an outing or visit.

Not all risk assessments need to be written down. Staff will decide, in consultation with the manager, which risk assessments need to be formally recorded. However risk assessments related to employment and the working environment will be always be recorded in writing so that staff can refer to them.

If changes are required to our policies or procedures as a result of the risk assessment, the manager will update the relevant documents and inform all staff.

Daily Checks

We will carry out a visual inspection of the equipment and the whole premises (indoors and out) daily, before any children arrive.  During the course of the session, staff will remain alert to any potential risks to health and safety.  If a member of staff discovers a hazard during the course of a session, they will make the area safe (e.g. by cordoning it off) and then notify the manager. The manager will ensure that any actions needed to mitigate the immediate hazard have been taken and will implement measures to prevent the incident from recurring.

Recording Dangerous Events

The manager will record all accidents and dangerous events on the Incident or Accident Record sheets as soon as possible after the incident. If the incident affected a child the record will be kept on the child’s file. We will monitor Incident and Accident Records to see whether any pattern to the occurrences can be identified.

Related Policies

See our related policies: Fire Safety and Risk Assessment, Health and Safety, and Manual Handling.

This policy was adopted by: Just Like Home Childcare. Date: 2^nd December 2016

To be reviewed: 2^nd December 2017.  Signed:

Written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2014): Safeguarding & Welfare Requirements: Safety & suitability of premises, environment & equipment [3.64]

EYFS safeguarding and welfare requirements and the Prevent Duty.

Parental permission

Children will only be allowed to access the internet at the Club if their parent or carer has given written permission

Guidelines for children

A printed copy of the SMART guidelines are kept next to the computer. The guidelines are

explained to any children wishing to access the internet:

 Safe: Keep safe by not giving out personal information – such as name, email,

phone number, address, or school name – to people who you don’t trust

online.

 Meeting: Never agree to meet anyone you have only met online unless your

parent or carer is with you.

 Accepting: Do not accept emails or instant messages, or open files, images or

texts from people you don’t know. They can contain viruses or nasty messages

messages.

 Reliable: Not all the information found on the Internet is reliable and people

you meet online won’t always be telling the truth.

 Tell: Tell a member of staff or your parents if someone or something you

encounter online makes you feel uncomfortable.

Protecting children

We have put in place the following safeguards to keep children safe whilst accessing the internet

on the Club’s computers:

 A risk assessment has been undertaken.

 Parental controls have been activated on all computers accessible to children:

o Google SafeSearch Filtering is turned on

o YouTube Restricted Mode is set to on

 The computers are located so that the screens can easily be seen from the rest of the room.

 Staff keep a close eye on children and the sites that they are accessing when they use the internet

 The computers have an up to date virus checker and firewall installed.

The computers’ browser histories are regularly checked to monitor which sites are being

accessed. All staff and children are informed of this fact.

If, despite the safeguards the Club has put in place, a child encounters harmful material on the internet, or receives inappropriate messages, or experiences online bullying, whilst using the Club’s computers, the manager will be informed and the incident will be noted on an Incident log

The manager will investigate how to prevent a reoccurrence of the incident.

If staff at the Club become aware that a child is deliberately attempting to access sites

containing sexual, extremist or otherwise inappropriate material, or has been shown such

material by a third party, they will complete a Logging a concern form and refer the matter to

the Club’s designated Child Protection Officer in accordance with our Safeguarding children policy

Related policies

See also: Safeguarding Children Policy, Social Media Policy.

• Emotional abuse is the persistent emotional maltreatment of a child so as to cause severe and persistent adverse effects on the child’s emotional development. It may involve making the child feel that they are worthless, unloved, or inadequate. Some level of emotional abuse is involved in all types of maltreatment of a child, though it may occur alone.
• Physical abuse can involve hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning, drowning, suffocating or otherwise causing physical harm to a child. Physical harm may be also caused when a parent or carer feigns the symptoms of, or deliberately causes, ill health to a child.
• Sexual abuse involves forcing or enticing a child to take part in sexual activities, whether or not the child is aware of what is happening. This can involve physical contact, or non-contact activities such as showing children sexual activities or encouraging them to behave in sexually inappropriate ways.
• Neglect is the persistent failure to meet a child’s basic physical and emotional needs. It can involve a failure to provide adequate food, clothing and shelter, to protect a child from physical and emotional harm, to ensure adequate supervision or to allow access to medical treatment.

Signs of child abuse and neglect Signs of possible abuse and neglect may include:-

• Significant changes in a child's behaviour.
• Deterioration in a child’s general well-being.
• Unexplained bruising or marks.
• Comments made by a child which give cause for concern.
• Inappropriate behaviour displayed by a member of staff, or any other person. For example, inappropriate sexual comments, excessive one-to-one attention beyond the requirements of their role, or inappropriate sharing of images.

If abuse is suspected or disclosed When a child makes a disclosure to a member of staff, that member of staff will:-

• Reassure the child that they were not to blame and were right to speak out.
• Listen to the child but not question them.
• Give reassurance that the staff member will take action.
• Record the incident as soon as possible (see Logging an incident below). If a member of staff witnesses or suspects abuse, they will record the incident straightaway. If a third party expresses concern that a child is being abused, we will encourage them to contact Social Care directly. If they will not do so, we will explain that we are obliged to and the incident will be logged accordingly.

Extremism and Radicalisation

All childcare settings have a legal duty to protect children from the risk of radicalisation and being drawn into extremism. There are many reasons why a child might be vulnerable to radicalisation, including:-

• Feeling alienated or alone.
• Seeking a sense of identity or individuality.
• Suffering from mental health issues such as depression
• Desire for adventure or wanting to be part of a larger cause.
• Associating with others who hold extremist beliefs.

Signs of Radicalisation

Signs that a child might be at risk of radicalisation include:-

• Changes in behaviour, for example becoming withdrawn or aggressive.
• Claiming that terrorist attacks and violence are justified.
• Viewing violent extremist material online.
• Possessing or sharing violent extremist material.

If a member of staff suspects that a child is at risk of becoming radicalised, they will record any relevant information or observations on a Logging a concern form, and refer the matter to the CPO.

Logging an Incident

All information about the suspected abuse or disclosure, or concern about radicalisation, will be recorded on the Logging a concern form as soon as possible after the event. The record should include:-

• Date of the disclosure, or the incident, or the observation causing concern.
• Date and time at which the record was made.
• Name and date of birth of the child involved.
• A factual report of what happened.

If recording a disclosure, you must use the child’s own words, name, and signature and job title of the person making the record. The record will be given to the CPO who will decide on the appropriate course of action.  For concerns about child abuse, the CPO will contact Social Care. The CPO will follow up all referrals to Social Care in writing within 48 hours. If a member of staff thinks that the incident has not been dealt with properly, they may contact Social Care directly. For minor concerns regarding radicalisation, the CPO will contact the Local Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB) or Local Authority Prevent Co-ordinator. For more serious concerns the CPO will contact the Police on the non-emergency number (101), or the anti-terrorist hotline on 0800 789 321. For urgent concerns the CPO will contact the Police using 999.

Allegations Against Staff

If anyone makes an allegation of child abuse against a member of staff:

• The allegation will be recorded on an Incident record form. Any witnesses to the incident should sign and date the entry to confirm it.
• The allegation must be reported to the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) and to Ofsted. The LADO will advise if other agencies (e.g. police) should be informed, and the Club will act upon their advice. Any telephone reports to the LADO will be followed up in writing within 48 hours.
• Following advice from the LADO, it may be necessary to suspend the member of staff pending full investigation of the allegation.
• If appropriate Just Like Home Childcare will make a referral to the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Promoting Awareness Among Staff

Just Like Home Childcare promotes awareness of child abuse and the risk of radicalisation through its staff training. The Club ensures that:-

• The designated CPO has relevant experience and receives appropriate training in safeguarding and the Prevent Duty, and is aware of the Channel Programme and how to access it.
• Safe recruitment practices are followed for all new staff.
• All staff have a copy of this Safeguarding Children policy, understand its contents and are vigilant to signs of abuse, neglect or radicalisation.
• All staff are aware of their statutory duties with regard to the disclosure or discovery of child abuse, and concerns about radicalisation.
• All staff receive basic safeguarding training.
• All staff receive basic training in the Prevent Duty.
• Staff are familiar with the Safeguarding File which is kept in the locked cupboard in the kitchen.
• Our procedures are in line with the guidance in ‘Working Together to Safeguard Children (2015)’ and staff are familiar with the guidance in ‘What To Do If You’re Worried A Child Is Being Abused (2015)’.

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

FGM is illegal in the UK and a form of child abuse with long-lasting harmful consequences. Professionals in all agencies, and individuals and groups in relevant communities, need to be alert to the possibility of a girl being at risk of FGM, or already having suffered FGM.

FGM refers to procedures of any alteration involving partial or total removal of the external female genital organs. The procedure may lead to short term and long-lasting harmful consequences such as death, trauma, infections, flashbacks, infertility, kidney problems, sexual dysfunctions, incontinence, post-traumatic stress disorder etc.  It is known to be practised in the North African countries, the Middle-East, Indonesia, Malaysia, India and Pakistan. However, with migration worldwide it is also practised in the UK, the USA, Canada, Australia etc.  The United Nations addresses FGM as violation of human rights. In the UK, FGM is a criminal offence and a harmful form of child abuse. It is illegal to practice in the UK and/or anyone involved in taking girl outside of the UK to have FGM carried out will be punished under the FGM Act 2003 and Serious Crime Act 2015.

FGM is not a religious practice.

Indicators

There are a range of potential indicators that a girl may be at risk of FGM.

FGM often takes place in the summer holidays, as the recovery period after FGM can be 6 to 9 weeks.  Professionals should be mindful of high risk times when children go on long holidays and/or are getting a visit by female elder from their country of origin.  Additionally, girls are considered at risk where their mother or sisters have undergone FGM, and girls are talking about a ‘special’ event or procedure to ‘become a woman.’

Post FGM symptoms can include, but are not limited to:-

• Difficulty in walking, sitting or standing.
• Spending long periods of time in the bathroom/toilet.
• Displaying unusual behaviour after a lengthy absence.
• Parents/carers reluctant to explain reasons for absence.
• Talking about themselves in the third person or talking about a “friends” problem.

Mandatory Reporting Duty 

Section 5C of the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003 (as inserted by section 75 of the Serious Crime Act 2015) gave the Government powers to issue statutory guidance on FGM to relevant persons. The guidance provides professionals with the information they need to help them understand the issues around FGM; professionals’ responsibilities on FGM linked to wider safeguarding duties and good practice; the range of legal interventions to deal with FGM; guidelines for key professionals including police, healthcare professionals, children’s social care and schools and colleges, and working with communities to prevent FGM.

Section 5B of the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003 (as inserted by section 74 of the Serious Crime Act 2015)l places a statutory duty upon teachers, along with social workers and healthcare professionals, to report to the police where they discover (either through disclosure by the victim or visual evidence) that FGM appears to have been carried out on a girl under 18.  Those failing to report such cases will face disciplinary sanctions. It will be rare for teachers to see visual evidence, and they should not be examining children – it is likely that discovery will be made by disclosure by the student, parent or otherwise.  These cases must be referred to police.   Immediate reporting is required if FGM has been performed recently, and in historical cases, reporting must take place within one month.

Unless the teacher has a good reason not to, they should still consider and discuss any such case with the designated safeguarding lead and involve children’s social care as appropriate. While the duty is limited to the specified professionals described above, non-regulated practitioners also have a responsibility to take appropriate safeguarding action in relation to any identified or suspected case of FGM, in line with the procedures of their Local Safeguarding Children Board (LCSB).

As a setting, we will aim to raise awareness of FGM by: -

• Circulating and display materials about FGM.
• Displaying relevant information (for example, details of the NSPCC’s Helpline and appropriate black and minority ethnic women’s groups).
• Informing colleagues/raising awareness of the issues around FGM – as well as including appropriate training in continuing professional development

 Use of Mobile Phones and Cameras

Photographs will only be taken of children with their parents’ permission. Only the setting camera will be used to take photographs of children.  Neither staff nor children may use their mobile phones to take photographs at any time.

Contact numbers Social Care: 01273 290400.  Social Care out of hours contact: 01273 295555. LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer): Darrel Clews. 01273 295643 / 07795 335898. LSCB (Local Safeguarding Children Board): 01273 292379.  Police: 101 (non-emergency) or 999 (emergency) Anti-terrorist hotline: 0800 789 321 NSPCC: 0808 800 500 Ofsted: 0300 123 1231

This policy was adopted by: Just Like Home Childcare.  Date: 2^nd December 2016

To be reviewed: 2^nd December 2017.  Signed:

Written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2014): Safeguarding and Welfare requirements: Child Protection [3.4-3.8] and Suitable People [3.9-3.13].

Just Like Home Childcare will deal with negative and inappropriate behaviour by using constructive behaviour management techniques. We will involve staff, parents and children to tackle disruptive and challenging behaviour collectively.  We acknowledge that some children will require additional support to achieve acceptable levels of behaviour. Where we identify a child with these needs, we will work closely with the parents

or carers to deal with the inappropriate behaviour in accordance with our Behaviour Management policy.

Where a child persistently behaves inappropriately, we will implement the following procedure:

1. Give the child a formal warning; staff will explain why the behaviour is unacceptable along with the consequences of further incidents.
2. Staff will encourage the child to discuss their behaviour, to explain their actions and to identify strategies for avoiding such incidents in the future.
3. Details of formal warnings, suspensions and exclusions will be recorded on an Incident record and kept in the child’s records.
4. The formal warning will be discussed with the child’s parents, and all staff will be notified.

Staff will inform the manager if a child’s behaviour warrants suspension or exclusion.

We will only suspend or exclude a child as a last resort, when all other behaviour management strategies have failed or if we feel that children or staff are at risk. Suspensions and exclusions will be fair, consistent and appropriate to the behaviour concerned, and will take account of the child’s age and maturity as well as any other factors relevant to the child’s situation. If appropriate, we will seek advice from other agencies; this may include accessing funding for additional support.

Temporary suspensions

Temporary suspensions will be applied in the following situations: -

• Where formal warnings have failed to improve a child’s persistent, challenging and unacceptable behaviour.
• In the event of an extremely serious or dangerous incident we will suspend a child with immediate effect. We will contact the parents and ask that the child be collected immediately. Immediate suspensions require the manager’s agreement.

Just Like Home Childcare may temporarily suspend the child for a period of up to 15 consecutive days. If the we take this step, we will discuss our concerns with the parents/carers in order to work together to promote a more desirable pattern of behaviour.

At the end of the suspension period the manager will meet with the parents/carers and the child, in order to agree any conditions relating to the child’s return to the setting.

Permanent exclusion

In exceptional circumstances, and only when all other attempts at behaviour management have failed, it may be necessary to permanently exclude a child from the setting.

If a child is excluded, the parents/carers will be given a verbal and written explanation

of the issues and subsequent actions. The parent/carer has the right to appeal to the

manager against the exclusion within 14 days of receiving written

notification of the exclusion.

This policy was adopted by: Just Like Home Childcare. Date: 4^th December 2016

To be reviewed: 4^th December 2017. Signed:

Written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2014): Managing Behaviour [3.52-3.53].

• All visitors to the Club must sign the Visitor Log.
• The identity of the visitor will be checked and this will be recorded on the Visitor Log.
• If staff require further reassurance of the identity of the visitor, they will phone the employing organisation of the visitor, e.g. Ofsted, Local Authority, Environmental Health Department, etc, for further confirmation. If this is not possible, staff will seek the advice of the Manager.
• The reason for visit will be recorded.
• Visitors will never be left alone or unsupervised with the children.
• If a visitor has no reason to be on the premises staff will escort them from the premises.
• If the visitor refuses to leave, staff will call the police. In such an event an Incident Record will be completed and the manager will be immediately notified.
• When a visitor leaves the premises, we will record the time of departure on the Visitor Log.

This policy was adopted by: Just Like Home Childcare. Date: 4^th December 2016.

To be reviewed: 4^th December 2017.  Signed:

Written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2014):

Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements: Safety and suitability of premises, environment and equipment

[3.62].

Just Like Home Childcare is committed to the highest standards of openness, probity and

accountability. If a member of staff discovers evidence of malpractice or wrongdoing within the setting, they can disclose this information internally without fear of reprisal. Our Whistleblowing policy is intended to cover concerns such as: -

• Financial malpractice or fraud
• Failure to comply with a legal obligation
• Dangers to health and safety or the environment
• Criminal activity
• Improper conduct or unethical behaviour

This policy should not be used to question business decisions made by the manager, or to raise any matters that are covered under other policies (e.g. discrimination or racial harassment). Any allegations relating to child protection will follow the procedures set out in the Safeguarding Children policy. Any concerns relating to the employment conditions of an individual member of staff should be raised according to the procedures set out in the Staff Grievance policy.

Raising a Concern

Ideally the staff member should put his or her allegations in writing, setting out the background to the situation, giving names, dates and places where possible, and the reason why they are concerned about the situation. In the first instance concerns should be taken to the manager. If, due to the nature of the problem, this is not possible, consult your local authority playwork advisor 01273 295920 for advice. If this person or body is unwilling or unable to act on the concern, the staff member should then raise it with: -

• Ofsted (if it concerns the safe and effective running of the setting).
• The Local Authority Designated Officer or the Local Safeguarding Children Board (if it concerns a child protection issue and is not already covered by the procedure set out in the Safeguarding Children policy).
• Ultimately, with the police (if a crime is thought to have been committed).

If the member of staff is still uncertain about how to proceed with the concern, he or she can contact the whistle-blowing charity PCAW (Public Concern at Work) for advice.

Responding to a Concern

Initial enquiries will usually involve a meeting with the individual raising the concern, and will decide whether an investigation is appropriate and, if so, what form it should take. If a concern relates to issues which fall within the scope of other policies, it will be addressed under those policies. If the initial meeting does not resolve the concern, further investigation is required. The appropriate person will investigate the concerns thoroughly, ensuring that a written response can be provided within ten working days where feasible, or if this is not possible, giving a date by which the final response can be expected. The response should include details of how the matter was investigated, conclusions drawn from the investigation, and who to contact if the member of staff is unhappy with the response and wishes to take the matter further.

Rights and Responsibilities of the Whistle-blower

All concerns will be treated in confidence and we will make every effort not to reveal the

identity of anyone raising a concern in good faith. At the appropriate time, however, the

member of staff may need to come forward as a witness. If a member of staff raises a concern in good faith which is then not confirmed by the investigation, no action will be taken against that person. If the investigation concludes that the member of staff maliciously fabricated the allegations, disciplinary action may be taken against that person.

Contact information

LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer): Darrel Clews. 01273 295634

LSCB (Local Safeguarding Children Board): 01273 292379

Ofsted: 0300 123 1231

PCAW (Public Concern at Work): 020 7404 6609 (website: www.pcaw.org.uk)

Related policies

Staff Grievance policy, Safeguarding Children policy.

This policy was adopted by: Just Like Home Childcare. Date: 4^th December 2016

To be reviewed: 4^th December 2017. Signed: