Safeguarding and Welfare Policy

My priority is the safeguarding and welfare requirements of all children.

Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is defined as:

Protecting children from maltreatment.
Preventing impairment of children's health or development.
Ensuring that children grow up in circumstances consistent with the provision of safe and effective care.
Taking action to enable all children to have the best outcomes.

There is a proactive and a reactive element to safeguarding.

Safeguarding, children is proactive. It has many elements which work together to ensure children are growing up in circumstances consistent with the provision of safe and effective care, as well as protecting children from maltreatments. I have a legal duty to protect the children in my care, but safeguarding is done in partnership with families and other professionals – parents, health visitor/community nursery nurse, GP’s, hospitals, midwives, early years settings, childminders, family hubs, community groups, Children’s First Response Hub which includes the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) and the Early Help Team, Dorset Safeguarding Children Partnership, Social Care services, Specialist services (health/development), Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) known as Designated Officer in BCP from 2021.

Child Protection is reactive. It is still part of safeguarding and promoting welfare. It refers to the activity I undertake to protect specific children who are suffering or are likely to suffer significant harm.

This is how I look to meet the highest standards of care for the children in my care and the wider community.

1 Reporting

2 LADO - Allegations against myself, a member of my family, a volunteer, a visitor, or an assistant (anyone living, working or looking after children on the premises).

3 Abuse

4 Extremism and Radicalisation, including Prevent Duty

5 Training

6 Mobile phone, camera and other electronic devices with images and sharing capabilities

7 Online Safety

8 Suitable people

9 Disqualification

10 Whistleblowing

11 Staff taking medication/other substances including alcohol

12 Attendance

13 Late collection

14 Collection

15 Smoking and Vaping

16 Fire

17 Equality

1. Reporting - If I have a safeguarding concern about a child living in the BCP area, I would contact the Children’s First Response Hub (made up of the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub, MASH, and Early Help Team). Tel: 01202 123334 Monday to Thursday 8.30am to 5.15pm and Friday 8.30am to 4.45pm Email: childrensfirstresponse@bcpcouncil.gov.uk or I would complete the Inter-Agency Referral Form (link on www.fid.bcpcouncil.gov.uk) The Children’s First Response Hub provides access to all services for children and families living in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, giving advice, information and support for children who are vulnerable and at risk.

For a child living in Dorset, I would report a safeguarding concern to Family Support & Advice Line: Email: familysupportandadviceline@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk Tel: 01305 228558 Monday to Friday 8am – 10pm; Saturday, Sunday and bank holidays 9am – 10pm. Out of hours Tel: 01305 221000.

For a child living in Hampshire, I would report a safeguarding concern to Hampshire Children’s Services Tel: 0300 5551384 or 01329 225379 for urgent child protection enquiries.

For reporting a safeguarding concern out of hours: Children’s Social Care out of Hours Service – BCP Council Tel: 01202 738256 Monday to Friday 5pm – 9am, all day Saturday, Sunday, and all bank holidays including Christmas Day and New Year’s Day Email ChildrensOOHS@bcpcouncil.gov.uk

I am aware I can also report a Safeguarding concern using the NSPCC helpline – help@nspcc.org.uk or 0808 800 5000 or by completing ‘report abuse online form’.

If a child is in immediate danger, I would call the police on 999 straight away.

I would use the Continuum of Need document when considering level of support needed by a child/family or level of risk to the child - level 1 Universal, level 2 Universal Plus, level 3 Universal Partnership Plus, level 4 Specialist. I would use the PDSCP Escalation Policy if I felt conflict, between professionals or agencies who disagreed on safeguarding actions or decisions, was putting the child at risk. The Escalation Policy offers a structured process that swiftly responds to conflict, to ensure the child's needs are met or concerns are adequately addressed.

2. LADO - The Local Authority Designated Officer at BCP Council: Tina Cooper and Mona Cook Tel: 01202 817600 Secure email lado@bcpcouncil.gov.uk

I must ensure that my conduct (or that of assistants/family members) is at all times exemplary and does not put children in danger or bring the setting into disrepute. If an allegation was made of child abuse and it falls below the threshold criteria, as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for Daisy Dolls I would conduct an internal investigation. If the incident or allegation appears to meet the threshold criteria, then I would contact the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) immediately. The threshold criteria are, as outlined in government statutory guidelines, when someone in a ‘position of trust’ and works with children (anyone under the age of 18) is alleged to have:

behaved in a way that has harmed a child, or may have harmed a child
possibly committed a criminal offence against or related to a child
behaved towards a child or children in a way that indicates they may pose a risk of harm to children
behaved in a manner in their private lives that might indicate any of the above conditions

If the LADO agrees that the allegation meets the threshold, I would complete the referral form, so the LADO has all required information available within 24 hours. I would assist in a formal investigation process, as agreed and arranged in a formal initial Evaluation Meeting (IEM), attended by all relevant multi-agency partners.

If I had any concerns about any adults, connected to or present with children at Daisy Dolls, whether they are paid, unpaid, volunteers, casual, or anyone working in a self-employed capacity, relating to transference of risk or suitability, whereby inappropriate, problematic behaviour in a professional’s private life, which may pose concerns of children being put at risk, I would contact the LADO.

I must notify Ofsted of any allegations of serious harm or abuse by anyone living, working or looking after children, including but not limited to myself, any member of my family, or other adults or children in my home who have had contact with minded children, whether the alleged abuse is said to have taken place on the premises or elsewhere for example a play group or outing. I would notify Ofsted of the action taken in response to the allegation. This would be made in writing as soon as is reasonably practicable, but at the latest within 14 days of the allegation being made.

As well as informing Ofsted and the Police of any allegations of abuse that are alleged to have taken place while a child is in my care, it is a requirement that I contact my insurer Royal & Sun Alliance plc. (public liability insurance policy number RTT 161353) and my BCP EY Quality Development Officer who supports me. Currently the numbers are Julie Welch 07779 880739/01202 127781– although these numbers may change.

I would also contact PACEY’s Helpline on 0300 003 0005 for advice and support.

3. Abuse - I understand that child abuse can be physical, sexual, emotional, neglect, domestic abuse or a mixture of these. I am aware of physical signs and behavioural signs and symptoms of abuse in these 5 categories.

Physical Abuse - Action will be taken under this heading if I have reason to believe that there has been a physical injury to a child, including deliberate poisoning, where there is a definite knowledge, or reasonable suspicion that the injury was inflicted or knowingly not prevented. It includes anyway of intentionally causing physical harm to a child by hitting with a hand or objects, slapping, punching, kicking, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning and scalding, biting and scratching, breaking bones and drowning. It also includes making up symptoms of an illness or causing a child to become unwell. Procedure: any signs of a mark or injury to a child when they come into my care will be recorded, discussed with the parent, and the parent asked to countersign the ‘existing injury’ form. The observed instances will be recorded and any marks recorded on a body map if the injury is clear to see and this adds to the description of the injury. These injuries and indicators would include bruises, broken bones, burns and scolds, bite marks, scarring, the effects of poisoning such as vomiting drowsiness or seizures, breathing problems from drowning, suffocation or poisoning. Head injuries on babies and toddlers including swelling, bruising, fractures, being extremely sleepy or unconscious, vomiting, seizures, unusual behaviour such as being irritable or not feeding properly, breathing problems. If there appears to be any discrepancy or query regarding the injury or the injury is discovered after the parent/carer has left and the child discloses the name of the person causing the injury, this will be shared with Children’s First Response Hub (MASH) who may notify the police if there is any concern that the child is in danger of significant harm.
Sexual Abuse - Action will be taken under this heading if I have witnessed occasions where a child indicated sexual activity through words, play, and drawing, or had an excessive pre-occupation with sexual matters, or had an inappropriate knowledge of adult sexual behaviour. I know sexual abuse includes contact and non-contact abuse, and that the abuse can happen in person or online. Contact abuse includes sexually touching any part of a child’s body whether they are wearing clothes or not, kissing and oral sex; using a body part or object to rape/penetrate the child/young person; forcing them to take part in sexual activity, or making the child undress or touch someone else. Non-contact abuse is when the child/young person is not touched by the abuser. This could be in person or online but includes exposing a child to sexual acts, showing pornography, exposing and flashing, forcing a child to make, view or share child abuse images and videos, forcing a child to take part in sexual activities or conversations online or through a smartphone, making them masturbate. I am aware that sexual abuse indicators include avoiding being alone with or frightened of people or a person they know; language or sexual behaviour you wouldn’t expect them to know, self-harm, changes in eating habits or developing an eating problem, changes in mood or feeling angry or irritable, alcohol or drug misuse, having nightmares or wetting the bed; bruises, bleeding, discharge, pain or soreness in their genital or anal area; sexually transmitted disease or being pregnant. If a child is being sexually abused online, they may have lots of new phone numbers, text messages or email addresses on their phone/laptop; they may be secretive about who they are talking too; they may seem distant, upset or angry after being on their phone/internet; they may spend a lot more time on their phone, gaming or using social media. Action will be taken if I have reason to believe or a child has indicated child sexual abuse. Procedure: the observed instances will be recorded. The matter will be referred to Children’s First Response Hub (MASH) who will notify the police if there is any concern that the child is in danger of significant harm.
Emotional Abuse - Action will be taken under this heading if I have reason to believe that there is a severe, adverse effect on the behaviour and emotional development of a child caused by persistent or severe maltreatment or rejection. This includes witnessing parents who never show their child any warmth and love, persistently ignore them, are often absent, manipulate them, humiliate or constantly criticise them; threaten or shout at their child and call them names, never say anything kind, never express positive feelings or congratulate them on their achievements; make their child the butt of jokes or use sarcasm to hurt them; do not recognise their child’s own individuality, try to control them, make the child perform downgrading acts, blame them or make them the scapegoat, expose them to upsetting events or situations like domestic violence or drug and alcohol abuse; do not allow them to have friends, push them too hard or do not recognise their limitations. I am aware of the indicators of Emotional abuse including: seeming unconfident or lacking self-assurance, struggling to control emotions, having difficulty making or maintaining friendships and relationships, acting in a way that’s not age appropriate. Babies and toddlers may not have a close relationship with their parents, may be overly affectionate to strangers and people they don’t really know, seem unconfident, wary and anxious, be aggressive and cruel to other children and animals. Older children may have few or no friends, lack social skills, seem isolated from their parents, have extreme outbursts, struggle to control their emotions, and act in a way and know about things you wouldn’t expect to them to know at their age. Procedure: the observed instances will be recorded. The matter will be referred to Children’s First Response Hub (MASH) who will notify the police if there is any concern that the child is in danger of significant harm.
Neglect - Neglect is the most common form of abuse with one in ten children in the UK have been neglected. Concerns around neglect have been identified for more than half of children who are subject to a child protection plan. There are different types of neglect – Prenatal neglect, Emotional neglect, Supervisory neglect, Nutritional neglect, Medical neglect and Educational neglect. The indicators I would be looking for include: poor appearance and hygiene – being smelly or dirty, having unwashed clothes, having the wrong clothes for the weather conditions, having untreated nappy rash, being hungry. The child may be clingy, aggressive, withdrawn, depressed or anxious, self-harming; there may be a change in their eating habits, they may find it hard to join in with activities, display obsessive behaviour or not be regularly attending setting. They may be living in unsuitable home environments (cold, witnessing domestic abuse etc), or disclose they are being left unsupervised/alone for long periods of time. The child could be taking on the role of carer for other family members (siblings and parents). They could appear tired, thin or have a swollen tummy. They may have untreated injuries, medical or dental issues, have regular illness and infections, not be given the right medication. They could have poor muscle tone, sores, rashes, ringworm, flea bites, skin issues, or have repeated injuries through lack of supervision. They may have poor language and social skills. Action will be taken under these heading if I have reason to believe that there has been persistent or severe neglect of a child (for example, by exposure to any kind of danger, including cold and starvation) which results in serious impairment of the child’s health or development, including non-organic failure to thrive. I need to act in cases where children’s health is affected by obesity, as serious obesity is a safeguarding issue and will be addressed as such. I completed Childhood Obesity training 11th February 2017. Dental neglect is defined by the British Society of Paediatric Dentistry as: 'The persistent failure to meet a child's basic oral health needs, likely to result in the serious impairment of a child's oral or general health or development'. Dental neglect could be intentional or unintentional due to lack of education around good oral health. I work in partnership with parents to provide good information around supporting their child's dental hygiene, but where I feel it is not being met, I will follow my safeguarding procedures. 'Was Not Brought' - recognising that children missing education can be an indicator of neglect I am curious and act against Educational neglect. I have watched the Nottingham City Safeguarding Children Board animation raising practitioners awareness to identify children as 'was not brought' instead of 'did not attend'.

I have read the 'Multi Agency Neglect Assessment Toolkit' from Pan-Dorset Safeguarding Children Partnership. I would use the BCP Area Neglect Assessment tool.

Procedure for all forms of neglect: the observed instances will be recorded. The matter will be referred to Children’s First Response Hub (MASH) who will notify the police if there is any concern that the child is in danger of significant harm.

Non-mobile babies - I recognise that non-mobile babies (and older children who are disabled) are vulnerable and at risk of physical abuse. Evidence states that the younger the child, the higher the risk that bruising or a mark on a baby is non-accidental. It is a requirement of the LSP (Pan-Dorset Safeguarding Children Partnership) that I refer all cases of bruising in non-mobile babies and older children who are disabled to them for investigation. If a non-mobile baby or older non-mobile disabled child arrives in my provision with a bruise or other mark which could suggest abuse the mark will be recorded on an ‘existing injuries’ form. If a reason has been given for the mark or injury by parent(s) this will also be recorded. Parent(s) will be asked to sign the form. I would immediately contact the Children’s First Response Hub (Mash).

Wider Safeguarding Concerns – I am alert to a wide range of safeguarding concerns and have completed training to strengthen my knowledge and understanding.

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) - My BCP Safeguarding training has included ACEs

which are traumatic events occurring before the age 18. ACEs include all types of abuse and neglect as well as parental mental illness, substance use, divorce, incarceration, domestic violence and household dysfunction. Children living with ACEs can experience toxic stress, the impact of which can be life long ill effects on their physical and mental health (lack of physical activity, severe obesity, smoking, alcohol abuse, drug abuse, depression, diabetes, suicide attempts, STDs, chronic lung disease, stroke, cancer, heart disease, broken bones); their employment (poor employment/missing work) and relationships. All Safeguarding concerns would be reported immediately following my procedure in Section 1 - Reporting.

ACEs work through experience not just exposure. Exposure alone does not mean a child is affected. If the ACE is prevented from causing toxic stress, the harm should not occur. Ways to prevent toxic stress include providing a nurturing, safe and stable environment, helping the children learn to cope with adversity, and reducing a child's ACE exposure. I look to build resilience by acknowledging the child's experience of ACEs and how it may be influencing their behaviour; by helping children identify their emotions, talk about them, and express them appropriately; by empowering children to problem solve and work through their issue/problem; and by promoting healthy coping habits of meditation and mindfulness, exercise and sleep routines.

I would report any concerns as per my reporting procedure (section 1 - Contact Children's First Response Hub 01202 123 334 childrensfirstresponse@bcpcouncil.gov.uk).

Domestic Abuse always has an impact on children. Being exposed to domestic abuse in childhood is child abuse. I acknowledge children and young people may experience domestic abuse both directly and indirectly.

I am alert to the signs that a child may be experiencing domestic abuse:

Tantrums, being withdrawn, tearful, needing extra cuddles, aggression or bullying, behavioural problems in setting, anti-social behaviour, anxiety, depression or suicidal thoughts
Attention seeking
Bed-wetting, nightmares or insomnia
Ill health including constant or regular sickness, like colds, headaches and mouth ulcers, eating disorders, problems in school or trouble making

I would report any concerns as per my reporting procedure (section 1 - Contact Children's First Response Hub 01202 123 334 childrensfirstresponse@bcpcouncil.gov.uk).

Forced Marriage is where one or both people do not or cannot consent to the marriage and pressure or abuse is used to force them into the marriage. The pressure can include physical, psychological, financial, sexual and emotional pressure. It can happen to anyone from any background and nationality, and can affect both males and females, children and adults. It is an abuse of Human Rights and where a child (under the age of 18) is involved, is abuse of the rights of the child and constitutes child abuse. I am aware that data on child victims of forced marriage show they are often taken to Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, India, UK, Somalia and Turkey.

A child who is forced into marriage is likely to suffer significant harm through physical, sexual and or emotional abuse which negatively impacts on their health and development. They are likely to become a victim of sexual violence including rape. If a child is forced to marry, he or she may be taken abroad for an extended period of time, which could amount to child abduction. In addition, a child in such a situation would be absent from school, resulting in the loss of educational and future employment opportunities. Even if the child has not taken abroad, they are likely to be taken out of school so as to ensure they do not talk about this situation with their peers.

I am alert to the warning signs that someone could soon be the victim of a forced marriage which include:

Running away from home
Poor performance at school, college, work or unexplained absences
Self-harming or attempted suicide, depression or becoming worried or withdrawn
A sudden holiday, being taken abroad for an extended amount of time which amounts to child abduction
Not returning from a visit to another country
No control over their own money.

A child in such a situation would be absent from school, resulting in the loss of educational opportunity also for future employment opportunities. Even if the child has not taken abroad, they are likely to be taken out of school so as to ensure they do not talk about this situation with their peers.

There is a clear difference between a forced marriage and an arranged marriage. In arranged marriages the families of both spouses take a leading role in arranging the marriage, but the choice of whether or not to accept the arrangement remains with the young people. In a forced marriage one or both spouses do not consent to the arrangement of the marriage and some elements of duress are involved.

I would report any concerns as per my reporting procedure (section 1 - Contact Children's First Response Hub 01202 123 334 childrensfirstresponse@bcpcouncil.gov.uk).

Forced Marriage training Apr 2020

Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) is a form of sexual abuse in which a child or young person is forced or manipulated into inappropriate sexual activities, often in exchange for accommodation, food, cigarettes, alcohol, drugs, money, affection, attention or gifts.

Sexual exploitation of a child is a form of sexual abuse. It occurs where an individual or group takes advantage of an imbalance of power to coerce manipulate or deceive a child or young person under the age of 18 into sexual activity (performing, and/or others performing sexual activities, on them) in exchange for something the victim needs or wants, and or for the financial advantage or increase status of the perpetrator or facilitator. The victim may have been sexually exploited even if the sexual activity appears consensual. Child sexual exploitation does not always involve physical contact it can also occur through the use of technology, without the child's immediate recognition; for example, being persuaded to post sexual images on the internet/mobile phones without immediate payment or gain.

An imbalance of power occurs when those exploiting the child/young person have power over them by virtue of their age, gender, intellect, physical and/or economic or other resources.

I am alert to the signs that child may have become a victim to sexual exploitation and grooming, which include:

Sharp changes in mood, character and behaviour: becoming aggressive and disruptive or quiet and withdrawn.
Being secretive.
A sudden change in family relationships, being frightened by certain people and in certain situations.
Unexplained gifts or new possessions, such as clothes, jewellery, mobile phones or money that can't be accounted for.
Physical signs of abuse like bruising or bleeding in the genital or anal areas.
Staying out all night or being regularly missing from home or school.
Increased or secretive use of mobile phone.
A significantly older boyfriend/girlfriend, friend or, perhaps, lots of new friends.
Spending excessive amounts of time online or on their mobile and becoming increasingly secretive.
Sudden involvement in crime or sudden increase in criminal offending.
Sexual health problems.
Change in physical appearance.

Powerful control and manipulation are experienced by victims of CSE. Fear, trauma, lack of self-esteem, misplaced loyalties towards the perpetrator, who they may believe to be their friend or boyfriend, may make it much too difficult to break free.

Grooming refers to actions deliberately aimed at establishing an emotional connection and trust with a child or young person in order to increase the likelihood of them engaging in sexual behaviour or exploitation. Grooming may also include threats or bribes, which persuade the child or young person that it would be impossible to ask for help." During the grooming process, the abusers aim to sever the relationships between the child and their parents and friends so they can have absolute control. There are 5 types of Grooming: the boyfriend/girlfriend model, the party model, the peer model, the gangs and group model and online.

I am alert of the signs of CSE and grooming and would report any concerns as per my reporting procedure (section 1 - Contact Children's First Response Hub 01202 123 334 childrensfirstresponse@bcpcouncil.gov.uk).

Child Sexual Exploitation training – virtual college Jan 2023, Apr 2020

Safeguarding children from abroad including modern slavery and human trafficking

Safeguarding children from abroad, especially those potentially affected by modern slavery and human trafficking, involves identifying and supporting vulnerable children and ensuring they receive appropriate care and protection.

Vulnerability Potential victims: Children arriving from abroad who are unaccompanied or accompanied by someone who is not their parent are considered most at risk.

Child Trafficking is recruiting, moving, receiving and harbouring children for the purpose of exploitation. Many children are trafficked into the UK from overseas, but children can also be trafficked from one part of the UK to another. Child trafficking is a form of modern slavery where children and young people, are treated as commodities and exploited for criminal and financial gain. Children are vulnerable to child sexual exploitation, criminal activity including moving drugs, street crime such as bag thefts or pickpocketing, begging, benefit fraud, immigration fraud, forced labour including cannabis cultivation, selling pirated goods, forced labour in car washes, restaurants, factories, agriculture; domestic servitude including childcare, cooking and cleaning, illegal adoption or unreported private fostering for exploitative purpose. Grooming methods are often used to gain the trust of a child and their parents, for example the promise of a better life or education, which results in a life of abuse, servitude and inhumane treatment.

I am alert to the signs and symptoms:

Being seen in inappropriate places like factories
Living somewhere inappropriate like a work place, in a caravan shed tent or outbuilding
Living in unhygienic and overcrowded conditions
Consistently wearing the same clothes, lacking personal items
Physical ill health, looking unkempt and malnourished
Tattoos or marks indicating ownership
Having a prepared story
Being unsure, unable or reluctant to give details about where they live.

I would report any concerns as per my reporting procedure (section 1 - Contact Children's First Response Hub 01202 123 334 childrensfirstresponse@bcpcouncil.gov.uk).

Domestic Servitude typically involves victims working in a private family home where they are ill-treated, humiliated, performing tasks, subjected to unbearable conditions or working hours and made to work for little or no pay. They are not free to leave and are forced to work under the threat of punishment.

I would report any concerns as per my reporting procedure (section 1 - Contact Children's First Response Hub 01202 123 334 childrensfirstresponse@bcpcouncil.gov.uk).

Assessment of risk outside the home - used to be called Contextual Safeguarding - It's an approach to understanding and responding to young people's experiences of significant harm beyond their families. Traditional approaches to protecting children and young people from harm have focused on the risk of violence and abuse from inside the home, usually from a parent or carer or other trusted adults and don't always address the time that children or young people spend outside the home and the influence on children and young people's development and safety from peer groups, online spaces, local communities and other spaces where young children spend time. Concerns might be online grooming and exploitation, criminal exploitation, radicalisation, serious youth violence, bullying gang violence and other forms of child-on-child abuse.

I am alert to the signs and symptoms:

Signs of abuse or neglect
Appearing scared, seeming untrusting, avoiding eye contact
Being isolated from family, friends or local community
New friendships or peer groups known for risky behaviour and criminal activity.

I listen to young people's experiences locally to ascertain current issues such as gangs, dealing and knife crime. All young people are vulnerable, but especially those with disabilities, mental health issues, those living with poverty, or who are homeless, those already in a gang and involved in criminal activity, and those exposed to gang violence. However, I am equally aware that children from wealthier backgrounds with no criminal record are being targeted and groomed. They are referred to as 'clean skins'.

Contextual safeguarding looks to change environments and systems that contribute to harm, rather than solely focusing on individual behaviours.

I would report any concerns as per my reporting procedure (section 1 - Contact Children's First Response Hub 01202 123 334 childrensfirstresponse@bcpcouncil.gov.uk).

Abuse linked to spiritual cultural and religious beliefs - Spirit possession is the belief that an evil force has entered a child and is controlling him or her. It may be believed that a child is able to use an evil force to harm others. There is also a range of other languages that is connected to the abuse: black magic, the evil eye, voodoo demons and child sorcerers. In all these cases genuine beliefs can be held by families, carers, religious leaders, congregations and the children themselves the evil forces are at work. Families and children can be deeply worried by the evil that they believe is threatening them, and abuse can often occur when an attempt to make an exorcism or deliver the child. Exorcism is the attempt to expel evil spirits from a child.

The belief in possession or witchcraft is widespread, it is not confined to particular countries, cultures or specific religions, nor is it confined to new immigrant communities in the country, however, children may be singled out as being different. Children with behavioural issues, those with reoccurring health issues, children born after a difficult pregnancy, gifted and talented children and those with SEND may be seen as possessed. It may be decided that a particular child in the family is responsible for the misfortunes and difficulties within the family. Children living with extended family or carers other than their parents, or in private fostering can be at increased risk to abuse linked to faith or belief.

I am alert to the signs and symptoms:

Change in behaviour becoming isolated, withdrawn confused
Change in appearance e.g. loosing weight or wearing dirty clothes
Wearing unusual jewellery or ornaments to protect them
Hearing children talk about being evil, having evil beaten out of them or using words like kindoki, djinn, juju or voodoo
Injuries such as bruises, cuts or burns, or historic injuries and scarring

I take all concerns about a child which arises in this context seriously and would follow my reporting procedure

(section 1 - Contact Children's First Response Hub 01202 123 334 childrensfirstresponse@bcpcouncil.gov.uk).

Honour-based violence - Honour-based violence is a collection of practices which are used to control behaviour within families or other social groups to protect perceived cultural and religious beliefs and or honour. Such violence can occur when perpetrators perceive that a relative has shamed the family and or community by breaking their honour code. This could be by wearing inappropriate make-up or dress, the existence of a boyfriend or a perceived unsuitable relationship e.g. a gay/lesbian relationship, rejecting a forced marriage, pregnancy outside of marriage, being a victim of rape, inter-faith relationships (or same faith, but different ethnicity), leaving a spouse or seeking divorce, kissing or intimacy in a public place, alcohol and drugs use. For young victims it is a form of child abuse and a serious abuse of Human Rights. It can be distinguished from other forms of violence as it is often committed with some degree of approval and or collusion from family and or community members. Women, men and younger members of the family can all be involved in this abuse. In the UK child victims have come from Turkey, Kurdistan, Afghanistan, Asia, Africa, The Middle East, South and East Europe.

I am alert to the signs and symptoms of honour-based violence:

Going missing from school/home to keep themselves safe
Being withdrawn, upset, self harming, appearing depressed, angry, desperate
Having movements restricted or supervised
Expressing concerns about a forthcoming holiday abroad
Having physical injuries
Not having access to their phone, passport or family members

I take all concerns about a child which arises in this context seriously and would follow my reporting procedure (section 1 - Contact Children's First Response Hub 01202 123 334 childrensfirstresponse@bcpcouncil.gov.uk).

Honour-based violence training Apr 2020

Female genital mutilation - FGM is when a female’s genitals are deliberately altered or removed for non-medical reasons. It is also known as female circumcision or cutting, as well as khitan, tahur, halalays, sunna.

FGM is child abuse. It is dangerous and a criminal offence in the UK. The procedure is typically performed on girls age between 4 and 13, but in some cases, it is performed on new born infants or on young women before marriage or pregnancy. There are no medical reasons to carry out FGM. The procedure is usually carried out by someone with no medical training, typically elder women in the community, even the child's grandmother or aunt. Children are rarely given anaesthetic; are forcibly held down, often by people they love or respect; unsterilized knives, scalpels, scissors, glass or razor blades are used by the cutter.

I am alert to the signs FGM might happen:

A female relative like mum, sister or aunt has undergone FGM
Going on holiday (this country or abroad for a longer period) often in the summer holidays
A special occasion or ceremony is talked about where a girl becomes a women, or is prepared for marriage
A relative or someone know as a cutter visits from abroad
The girl struggles at school, has an unexpected or long absence from school
The girl makes reference to FGM or confides, a parental statement or the child confides

I am alert to the signs FGM might have taken place:

Having difficulty walking, standing or sitting due to fracture or dislocation as a result of restraint
In severe pain
Emotional and psychological shock (exacerbated by having to reconcile being subjected to the trauma by loving parents, extended family and friends)
Haemorrhaging; wound infections; injury to adjacent tissues;
Spending longer in the toilet/bathroom; frequent urinary or menstrual problems
Appearing quiet, anxious or depressed
Acting differently after an absence from school
Particularly reluctant to undergo normal medical examinations
Asking for help, but not explicit about the problem due to embarrassment or fear
Prolonged or repeated absences from early years setting/school/college
noticeable behaviour changes (e.g. withdrawal or depression) upon return to setting/school/college;

I would report any concerns as per my reporting procedure (section 1 - Contact Children's First Response Hub 01202 123 334 childrensfirstresponse@bcpcouncil.gov.uk).

FGM training – Virtual college Jan 2023, Apr 2018

Gang activity youth violence and criminal exploitation affecting children - Criminal exploitation is child abuse where children and young people are manipulated and coerced into committing crimes.

Gangs tend to fall into three categories: peer groups, street gangs (who see themselves and are seen by others as a discernible group for whom crime and violence is integral to the group's identity) and organized criminal gangs (a group of individuals for whom involvement in crime is for personal gain (financial or otherwise). For most, crime is their occupation and involves the movement of selling of drugs ad money across the county know as county lines).

What are 'county lines'?

A county line is a term used to describe urban gangs and organised criminal networks involved in moving drugs from a hub, normally a large city, into markets – suburban areas and market and coastal towns, using dedicated mobile phone lines or 'deal lines’. They are likely to exploit children, some as young as 12, and vulnerable adults to carry and store the drugs and money for the gangs. Children are trafficked away from their home area; staying in Airbnb, budget hotels, short term rentals, the home of a drug user, or vulnerable person, and will become the victim of coercion, intimidation, violence (including sexual violence) and weapons. When the house is the home of a vulnerable adult who has been coerced into allowing drugs to be sold there, it is called ‘Cuckooing’. I am alert to an increase of strangers coming and going from properties around here, including young people coming and going at all hours; not seeing the person who lives there or seeing them looking stressed and anxious.

Trap houses

When the children arrive at their destination, they are forced to stay in houses with a mobile phone and a large supply of drugs, selling to local drug addicts and drug users. These houses, known as trap houses.

Children are recruited into a gang often because of where they live or because of who their family is. They might join the gang, because they don’t see another option or because they feel like they need protection.

Children and young people may become involved in gangs for many reasons, including:

peer pressure and wanting to fit in with their friends
they feel respected and important
they want to feel protected from other gangs, or bullies
they want to make money, and are promised rewards
they want to gain status, and feel powerful
they’ve been excluded from school and don’t feel they have a future

Organised criminal gangs groom children and young people because they’re less suspicious and are given lighter sentences than adults. White middle class children are often referred to as clean skins.

I am alert to the signs of child criminal exploitation:

Going missing, change of friends, frequently absent from and doing badly in school, going missing from home, staying out late and travelling for unexplained reasons
Making more calls or sending more texts, possibly on a new phone or phones; spending more time on social media and being secretive about time online; committing petty crimes like shop lifting or vandalism
In a relationship or hanging out with someone older than them
Being angry, aggressive or violent, being isolated or withdrawn, self-harming, taking drugs or abusing alcohol
Having new expensive belongings
Wearing clothes or accessories in gang colours or getting tattoos
Using new slang words – ounce, score (a £20 deal of drugs, usually cannabis but can be any drugs), trap house, trap ( a base used to sell drugs), cats, nittys (a derogatory term to describe a person with a substance addiction), feds, cunch ( means ‘country’ – travelling to a destination to sell drugs), bando (disposable people, a term used to describe children who sell drugs for the gangs), OT ( going out of town to sell drugs), Qs, Zs (a measurement of drugs, an ounce), pack or gpack, cuckooing (drug dealers take over the home of a vulnerable person in order to use it as a base to sell drugs)
Carrying unexplained items – possession of knives, mobile phone chargers, money or mobile phone data; paraphernalia – vaseline, baby wipes, scales, cling film, bags, rubber bands: receipts from out of town
Unexplained injuries and refusing to seek medical help
Carrying weapons or having a dangerous breed of dog.

I would report any concerns as per my reporting procedure (section 1 - Contact Children's First Response Hub 01202 123 334 childrensfirstresponse@bcpcouncil.gov.uk).

Infant oral mutilation – refers to the aggressive cultural rituals where primary canine teeth germs are gouged out, often using unsterilized tools with no antithetic, owing to the corresponding swelling being mistaken as the cause of diarrhoea and fever.

I am also alert to:

Up skirting - is a highly intrusive practice which typically involves someone taking a picture under another person's clothing without their knowledge, with the intention of viewing their genitals or buttocks with or without underwear.

Homelessness - to be legally defined as homeless you must either lack a secure place in which you're entitled to live or not reasonably be able to stay.

Children with family members in prison - three hundred and ten thousand children have a family member in prison. There are approximately ten thousand visits every week to prisons by children in England and Wales.

Children and the court system - this could include parental disputes over the upbringing of their children, Local Authority intervention to protect children, decrees relating to divorce or the dissolution of a civil partnership, financial support for children after divorce or relationship breakdown, some aspects of domestic violence, adoption, special guardianship, surrogacy, forced marriage protection, FGM protection.

Child on child sexual violence and harassment - is a form of child abuse in which pre-pubescent child is sexually abused by one or more other children of adolescent.

Self-harm and suicidal Behaviour - the UK suicide is the leading cause of death in young people accounting for 14% deaths of 10- to 19-year-olds. Self-harm is a common precursor to suicide and children and young people who deliberately harm themselves may unintentionally kill themselves by accident, but not all young children and young people who exhibit self-harming behaviours are at high risk of suicide.

Children missing from education - children missing from education are children and young people of compulsory school age who are not on a school role and are not being educated otherwise.

Transitional Safeguarding - I am aware of the role I play in transitional safeguarding to align safeguarding systems and services for adults and children to ensure they respond more fluidly to the changing needs as children move into adolescence and become young adults, to ensure the right services are available after they turn 18. I have read the Dorset Council 'Transitional Safeguarding Pathway'.

T.E.D. - The Children Act of 1989 and 2004 places a duty on CSC (Children’s Social Care) to investigate such matters. I will follow the procedures set out by LSP and will take guidance on further action or procedures to be followed. All records will be kept confidential on a need-to-know basis.

Allegations of child abuse or neglect could lead to a criminal investigation so I will not do anything to jeopardise this. If a child tells me that they or another child is being abused, I won’t ask a child leading questions or attempt to investigate allegations myself; I will listen carefully and not interrupt; I will show that I have heard what they are saying, and that I take their allegations seriously; I will encourage the child to talk; I will clarify the facts with open questions but will not ask too much or try to investigate; I will not make judgements as to whether I think the child is telling the truth; I will try not to appear shocked or upset; I will not ask the child to repeat themselves; I will explain what actions I must take, in a way that is appropriate to the age and understanding of the child; I won’t promise confidentiality; I will record what I have been told using exact words where possible; I will make a note of the date, time, place and people who were present at the discussion; I will not inform the parents/carer if the child is alleging physical or sexual abuse but will contact Children’s First Response Hub (Mash) and follow their advice on procedures. If initial clarification is needed, I may use open ended questions (T.E.D., Tell me, Explain to me and Describe to me) but I will be mindful that my LSP (Pan-Dorset Safeguarding Children Partnership) and the police are responsible for child protection matters.

I will give comfort and support to the child as appropriate; not force the child to talk about the abuse or ask leading questions; maintain confidentiality for the protection of the child and family; speak to children’s social care to ensure that appropriate action can be taken; record, using clear language, what has been seen or heard.

Working with parents and carers - By sharing this Safeguarding Policy I hope to impress upon parents, my commitment to all children’s well-being; so that you will understand the clear procedure I will follow in the event that I have reason to believe that a child may be at significant risk of harm. Parents must notify me of any concerns they have about their child, and any accidents, incidents or injuries affecting the child, which I will record and ask parents to sign.

Unless I believe that it would put the child at risk of further harm, I will discuss concerns with a child’s parent if I notice:

significant changes in children’s behaviour;
deterioration in children’s general wellbeing;
unexplained bruising, marks or signs of possible abuse or neglect;
any reasons to suspect neglect or abuse outside the setting, for example in the child’s home; and/or inappropriate behaviour displayed by other members of staff, or any person working with children. For example, inappropriate sexual comments, excessive one-to one attention beyond the requirements of their usual role and responsibilities, or inappropriate sharing of images;
children’s or parents’ comments which give cause for concern, including expressing extremist views.

At all times all children’s well-being comes first. I follow the procedures outlined in my Data Protection Policy. I aim to share all information with parents but in some instances (where I am worried about a child’s well-being and think they are at risk of significant harm) I may make a referral to Children’s First Response Hub (MASH) or will dial 999 without having first discussed it with the parent. I will record my decision in the child’s file with reasons, which will be dated and signed and confirmed in the referral to Children's social care. The CSC office may arrange a visit to the family/setting to see the child and parents for themselves. If this leads them to suspect a child has been abused or neglected, advice and support will be offered to improve the care of the child. I will continue to provide the best care for the child and work to support parents/carers in a confidential non-judgemental manner.

4. Extremism and Radicalisation, including Prevent Duty - Radicalisation is defined as the process by which people come to support terrorism and extremism, and in some cases participate in terrorist groups. Extremism is 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. Also included is an extremist call for the death of members in our Armed Forces whether in this country or overseas.

I challenge anyone who actively promotes intolerance of other faiths, cultures and races; I challenge stereotypes and behaviours (whether of adults working with children I come into contact with, adults in the community, children or parents) that are not in line with the fundamental British values.

I would make a referral by calling the National Police Prevent advice line on 0800 011 3764, or by using the Dorset Police Online referral form accessed on the BCP Early Years Safeguarding page – Prevent. I am also aware of the Department for Education telephone helpline (020 7340 7264) to enable staff and governors to raise concerns relating to extremism directly. Concerns can also be raised by email to counter.extremism@education.gsi.gov.uk

For updates on a report, or for general advice before making a referral, I would call 01202 229319 or email dorsetprevent@dorset.police.uk

In an emergency, including a threat to life, I would call 999

Prevent Duty - I am aware that I must have due regard to the need to prevent people being drawn into terrorism under The Prevent Duty (Education - specified authorities - registered early years childcare settings). The Prevent Duty is just one strand of the counter terrorism strategy known as CONTEST. I am also aware of the signs and indicators of extremism or radicalisation. If I had any concerns, I would use the 'notice, check, share' procedure as outlined in the Prevent duty Gov training and use the National referral form (Get help for radicalisation concerns). I have read and understood the guidance ‘The Prevent duty: introduction for those with safeguarding responsibilities’ Sep 2023. I am alert to ensuring my setting is not being exploited by radicalisers, which includes online safety to stop children from being exposed to inappropriate content, inappropriate contact and conduct, which might spread extremist narratives and encourage children into participating in or supporting terrorism. I would report concerns in the same way as any other Safeguarding concern – see reporting section 1.

British Values – I value and promote equality and diversity and help prepare children for life in modern Britain. This is done in an age-appropriate way to help children to reflect on their differences and understand what makes them unique, through teaching children to be respectful and to recognise those who help us, and contribute positively to society; by developing children’s understanding of British values; by developing children’s understanding and appreciation of diversity; routinely challenging stereotypical behaviours and promoting respect for different people and through celebrating what we have in common.

Together the children and I practice:

Democracy: making decisions together, with lots of opportunities to develop enquiring minds in an atmosphere where questions are valued. I support the decisions that children make and provide activities that involve turn-taking, sharing and collaboration. I encourage children to see their role in the bigger picture, encourage children to know their views count, value each other’s views and values and talk about their feelings, for example when they do or do not need help. When appropriate demonstrate democracy in action, for example, children sharing views on what the theme of their role play area could be with a show of hands.
Rule of law: understanding rules matter as cited in Personal Social and Emotional development through collaborating to create rules and codes of behaviour. As part of the focus on managing feelings and behaviour I ensure that children understand their own and others’ behaviour and its consequences, and learn to distinguish right from wrong. I collaborate with children to create the rules and the codes of behaviour, for example, to agree the rules about tidying up and ensure that all children understand rules apply to everyone.
Individual liberty: freedom for all, by reflecting on our differences and understanding we are free to have different opinions. As part of the focus on self-confidence & self-awareness and people & communities as cited in Personal Social and Emotional development and Understanding the World I provide a range of experiences that allow children to explore the language of feelings and responsibility; develop a positive sense of themselves; I provide opportunities for children to develop their self-knowledge, self-esteem and increase their confidence in their own abilities, for example through allowing children to take risks on an obstacle course, or by talking about their experiences and learning; through opportunities to reflect on their differences, for example looking at entries shared from home on Tapestry, and understand everyone is free to have different opinions
Mutual respect and tolerance: by treating others as we want to be treated, respecting other’s opinions and sharing. I work to create an ethos of inclusivity and tolerance where views, faiths, cultures and races are valued and children are engaged with the wider community. I model and help children acquire a tolerance and appreciation of and respect for their own and other cultures; know about similarities and differences between themselves and others and among families, faiths, communities, cultures and traditions and share and discuss practices, celebrations and experiences. I encourage and explain the importance of tolerant behaviours such as sharing and respecting other’s opinions, and promote diverse attitudes and challenge stereotypes, for example, sharing stories that reflect and value the diversity of children's experiences and providing resources and activities that challenge gender, cultural and racial stereotyping.

5. Training - I keep up to date with child protection issues and relevant legislation by taking regular training courses, by subscribing to the BCP Council Early Years Safeguarding Newsletter and by reading relevant publications from the likes of: Pacey, Nursery World and Childcare.co.uk.

Under my Safeguarding review (I hold a Level 3 certificate in Safeguarding Children), I have looked at all areas of Safeguarding including and not limited to: child protection, anti-bullying policies, managing volunteers and parents who stay in the setting, use of mobile phones, cameras and other electronic devices with imaging and sharing capabilities, health and safety, whistle blowing, safe internet use, fabricated illness, domestic abuse, intimate care, staff conduct, managing allegations against myself or another member of my family, building design, and safer recruitment and selection if I choose to work with an assistant in the future.

I attended Level 3 Safeguarding training 28/2/2009, 26/3/2011, 14/1/2012, 14/7/2014, 15/5/2017, 3/12/2020, 15/3/2025. I hold certificates for BCP Safeguarding Level 2 training Dec 2023 and March 2025, Leading and Managing your setting, effective induction (Apr 2024), Leading and Managing your setting, effective supervision (Jun 2024), Leading and Managing your setting, effective appraisal (Jun 2024), Learning from Serious Case Reviews Level 3 Safeguarding (Apr 2023), Child Sexual Exploitation (Jan 2023), Level 1 Child Criminal Exploitation and County Lines (Jan 2023), Female Genital Mutilation (Jan 2023), Oral Health (Jun 2022), Dental Hygiene and Oral Health in The Early Years (Mar 2022), Parental Conflict (Feb 2022), Families under Pressure (Feb 2022), Strategies to support families under pressure (Feb 2022), Staff Safeguarding Training (Oct 2020), Safeguarding Children who are Disabled (Apr 2020), Child Protection Processes (Apr 2020), Drugs and Alcohol Awareness (Apr 2020), Child Sexual Exploitation (Apr 2020), Emotional Abuse (Apr 2020), Honour Based Violence and Forced Marriage (Apr 2020), Introduction to the EYFS – Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements (Jan 2020), Child Protection Investigations training (May 2017), Mental Health Awareness training (May 2017), Physical Abuse training (Feb 2017), Domestic Abuse (Apr 2020, Aug 2018), Female Genital Mutilation (Apr2018), Pacey Safeguarding training (Feb 2016), Safer Working Practice (Jan 2015), Safer Recruitment (Jul 2020, Nov 2017) and Early Years Safeguarding Forum for Designated Safeguarding Leads and DDSLs (March 2025).

I completed ‘Prevent’ training on 16/4/2020, 25/2/2017 and 8/6/2016 and ‘British Values’ training on 15/6/2017 and 18/5/2016 and keep up to date with changes in legislation.

I have read and understood the safeguarding and welfare requirements of the EYFS – Sep 2025, the Ofsted safeguarding guidance in the Early Years inspection handbook, ‘Keeping children safe in education’ – May 2024, ‘Working Together to Safeguard Children’ – Dec 2023, 'The Children's Act 1989 and 2004, ‘Information Sharing’ – May 2024 (HM Government advice for practitioners providing safeguarding services to children, young people, parents and carers) and ‘What to do if you’re worried a child is being abused’ – March 2015, 'Safer Working Practice' Feb 2022.

6. Mobile Phone - My mobile phone plays a vital role in my emergency plan both when the children and I are out, and as part of our fire drill evacuation equipment. At all times, I ensure that my phone is fully charged/with credit to be able to use in the event of emergencies, and when necessary to contact parents when their child is ill, or so a parent can contact me. For each child, I have all the emergency contact details as per contract/child record form stored on my mobile phone. By signing your child’s contract to say that you have read and understood policies and procedures for Daisy Dolls, you give your permission for me to store these personal details on my mobile phone which are subject to my Privacy Notice and Data Protection Policy. My mobile phone has a face identification, fingerprint identification and is password protected, so all personal details are protected in the event that the phone is either lost or stolen.

In order to comply with the Data Protection Act 2018 and GDPR I have registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office as a data controller to allow me to store digital images on an SD card/device/computer.

I use the camera facility on my mobile phone to take pictures and videos, for the purpose of recording a child or group of children participating in activities, or celebrating their achievements. These images are an effective form of recording children’s progress in the Early Foundation Stage and bring pleasure to the child’s parents, as photos and videos are shared at the end of each day on Tapestry. I use an Apple iPhone. Images are stored in Photos and Google Photos. As I import the photos into each child’s Tapestry journal at the end of the day, I delete all photos of minded children from the Photos and Google Photos on both iPhone and iPad.

Parents/visitors are kindly asked to refrain from using their mobile telephones whilst in setting or when collecting or dropping off their children. Parents/visitors using their phone inside my setting will be asked to finish the call or take the call outside. I do this to ensure all children are safeguarded, and the time for dropping off and picking up is a quality handover opportunity where I can share details about your child’s day. Parents/visitors are requested not to use their mobile phone, camera, smart watch, smart glasses or any other electronic devices with image and sharing capabilities to take photographs of children in setting.

Parents of all children under school age are requested not to allow their child to wear or bring in devices that may take photographs or record videos or voices. This includes, but is not limited to smart watches, smart glasses, tablets, game consoles with these capabilities and baby monitors such as Vtech. This ensures all children are safeguarded and also protects their property as it may get damaged or misplaced. Older minded children who have their own mobile phone will have its use restricted/observed. All phones will be held by me and if a child wants to make a call, they will be able to request to use their phone. They will not be allowed to use the camera facility to take photographs of any minded children.

By signing your child’s contract to say that you have read and understood policies and procedures for Daisy Dolls, you give permission for me to photograph or video your child/ren whilst in my care. These images will only be used in reports sent to parents through Tapestry (your child’s online learning journal), displays in the setting, or blogs on ww.daisydollchildminder.com. At no time will I put any images of minded children onto social network sites. When posting blogs, on my website, of activities the children and I have enjoyed, I will make sure that any child’s face is obscured, or the photo is edited so a child is only visible by their core and limbs. By signing your child’s contract to say you have read and understood policies and procedures for Daisy Dolls, you acknowledge that in videoing children in play; they will regularly identify each other in conversation. This will create a situation where a child’s image and name are linked; you also acknowledge that where your child is also on another child’s photograph, but not as the primary person, that may be used in another child’s Tapestry learning journey. By signing, you are giving permission for this to happen, understanding that I, Mrs Barrett, am aware of my obligations under The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and will not share these video images with anyone outside of the setting without parental consent from every child in the footage. Please see my Privacy Notice, Data Protection Policy and Retention Policy for GDPR.

Parents receiving images of me and my family alongside their child/ren or alongside other children in the setting, will respect me and my family’s privacy and that of the other children pictured, by not publishing or making the images available to the public in paper form, on any social networking sites (examples of such sites include, but are not limited to X, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat/Kik, Yubo, Myspace and You Tube), or in any other format. Photos posted on such a site become the property of the site. Please be respectful of me and my family’s privacy as well as the privacy of all children and families that use my setting if you share a photo with a family member, and ensure they follow the same Safeguarding and Data Protection rules in not posting images on social networking sites.

The Apple iPad and Computer, I use to access the children’s Tapestry Learning journals, are both used solely for my Childminding business and not used by any other member of my family. The computer is protected by a password in the event that it is stolen. At no time will any member of my family be allowed to take photos of minded children on their own phones, cameras, Apple watches, or other electronic devices with imaging and sharing capabilities. At no time will any member of my family be allowed to put any images of minded children onto the internet. There may be occasions where I ask a member of my family to use my phone to take a picture of me engaged in activities with minded children.

For Security the rear garden has CCTV cameras (Ring), which live track all activity. I can see the children in the garden on the Ring app, but images are not recorded until triggered. Cameras are triggered to record when personal and garage doors to out buildings are opened.

7. Online Safety – I value the use of tablets to enhance children’s learning. Whilst we may not use them every day, most pre-school children I care for access the internet daily at home, therefore modelling and sharing good practice in online safety is an essential role. I help young children learn the foundations of safe online behaviour by using resources such as Smartie the Penguin, Digiduck Stories, Jessie and Friends online safety education for 4-7s, and 4-7s website and guide for parents and carers. I have read and understood ‘Safeguarding children and protecting professionals in early years: online safety guidance for practitioners’. I am aware of the online risks of exposure to inappropriate content, inappropriate contact and conduct. To minimise these risks, I always supervise children when accessing the internet; I check apps, websites and search results before using them with children; I use YouTube Kids to search videos; I have set safety modes and filters on my Apple Security and Privacy settings which also make sure personal data is not being shared inappropriately or inadvertently. I regularly talk to children about safe use of the computer/tablet/phone and internet, and share E-Safety information with parents and carers to help support I.C.T. at home. I use their child’s Tapestry journal to share good practice guides from Childnet (Keeping under-fives safe online), Internet Matters (Guidance for parents of pre-schoolers), NSPCC, Parent Zone and Thinkuknow, plus links for E-safety sent by BCP FIS.

I am aware that online child grooming can happen in chat rooms, video games, social media, text messages and apps like WhatsApp. A child groomer may pretend they are younger than they are, give advice and attention, buy gifts and take a child on trips and holidays. I share these risks with parents and the children in my care.

I would report any concerns as per my reporting procedure (section 1 - Contact Children's First Response Hub 01202 123 334 childrensfirstresponse@bcpcouncil.gov.uk).

8. Suitable People - Ofsted is responsible for checking the suitability of the childminder, every person looking after children in the setting, and every other person aged 16 and over living or working on the same premises the childminding is being provided. Ofsted have made these enhanced criminal records checks and barred list checks for myself, my husband Mark and son Jack. Annual subscription to the Disclosure and Barring Service are made.

I would not allow anyone whose suitability has not been checked to have unsupervised contact with the children I care for.

If I were to recruit any assistants, my procedure to check the suitability of applicant would be to: check their identity by requesting and verifying valid government issued photo identification, such as a passport or driver's licence, along with proof of address. I would request multiple references before employment commences and check all, by speaking with all previous employers and confirming they are who they say they are, asking how they've known the applicant, their role, and the duration of their working relationships. One of these references would be required to be from the applicant's current employer, training provider or education setting, and have been completed by a senior person with appropriate authority. I would ensure the information confirms whether they are satisfied with the applicant's suitability to work with children and provide facts (not opinions) of any substantiated safeguarding concerns/allegations that meet the threshold*. I would seek information about concerns/allegations which are unsubstantiated, unfounded, false, or malicious. * Disclosure and Barring service Guidance: Making barring referrals to the DBS and Section 35(4) of the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006. I would not accept an open reference e.g. to whom it may concern. I would not accept a reference from a family member. I would actively seek references if the applicant didn't supply any. I would ensure all electronic references originate from a legitimate source. Where information on the reference appears vague, or insufficient is given, I would look for clarification from the previous employer. I would compare information on the application form with that in the reference and take up any discrepancies with the applicant. I would establish the reason for the applicant leaving their current role or most recent post, and ensure any concerns are resolved satisfactorily before their appointment is confirmed. I would obtain a DBS through Ofsted and complete the online New assistant Ofsted form. I would ensure that their Safeguarding training meets the criteria in Annex C of the EYFS and is in date. I would provide support, advice, and guidance on an ongoing basis, and on any specific safeguarding issue as required. I would make sure any assistant had a full understanding of the Safeguarding Policies and Procedures for Daisy Dolls. Safeguarding training would be renewed every two years, and an assistant may be asked to undertake an annual refresher during any two year period to help maintain basic skills and keep up to date with any changes to safeguarding procedures or as a result of any safeguarding concerns that occur at Daisy Dolls. I would ensure that assistants disclose any convictions, cautions, court orders, reprimands and warnings that may affect their suitability to work with children (whether received before or during their employment at Daisy Dolls

I would make a referral to the Disclosure and Barring Service if an assistant was dismissed (or would have been, had they not left first) because they harmed a child or put a child at risk of being harmed. I would not employ an assistant who has been disqualified.

I completed Leading and Managing your setting, effective induction (Apr 2024), Leading and Managing your setting, effective supervision (Jun 2024), Leading and Managing your setting, effective appraisal (Jun 2024)

I am aware of the resources on Pacey for employing and working with childminding assistants.

9. Disqualification - Suspension of my childminding service/assistant may be considered necessary if:

There is cause to suspect a child is at risk of significant harm, or
The allegation warrants investigation by the police, or
In the case of an assistant, the allegation is so serious that it might be grounds for dismissal.

A childminder or assistant who is disqualified must not continue as an early year’s provider or assistant, or be directly involved in the management of any early year’s provision. If I became aware of information that may lead to an assistant being disqualified, I would take appropriate action to ensure the safety of all children. A childminder or childminder’s assistant may be disqualified because they live in the same household as another person who is disqualified, or because they live in the same household where a disqualified person is employed. I would notify Ofsted of any significant event which is likely to affect the suitability of any person who is in regular contact with the children, which includes an assistant being disqualified. The notification would be made as soon as possible, but no later than 14 days from the date I became aware of the information, or should have reasonably been aware of it, if I had made reasonable enquiries.

10. Whistleblowing – I am committed to the highest possible standards of openness, honesty and accountability. If I had any concerns about anyone working with children and felt they were not continually meeting the requirements of their registration to keep children’s safeguarding and welfare needs foremost in their role, I would contact the LADO. This would apply to other childminders, assistants and anyone working with children I come into contact in my course of work. If I had concern’s a person caring for children was not registered, a childminder was over-minding or a child being cared for by someone outside of Daisy Dolls was at risk/ was being abused, I would report those concerns using the procedures as per section 1 – Reporting.

I encourage a culture of openness where everyone connected to my setting are aware of their duty to raise concerns, where they exist, about the management of safeguarding. Concerns should be raised with me. If this is not appropriate, concerns should be raised with the LADO at BCP Council: Tina Cooper and Mona Cook Tel: 01202 817600 Secure email lado@bcpcouncil.gov.uk

Evidence from LCSPR (Local Children Safeguarding Practice Reviews – previously known as serious case reviews SCR), show that staff supervision arrangements were often inadequate. Therefore, I have completed the following training: ‘Leadership and Management’, ‘Leading and Managing your Setting, effective induction’, ‘Leading and Management, effective supervision’ and ‘Leading and Managing your Setting, effective appraisal’, as the role of supervision helps to Safeguard children and promotes my ethos of a culture of openness, honesty and accountability.

11. Staff taking medication/other substances including alcohol - I, nor anyone else, who has contact with children whilst in my setting or on outings, will be under the influence of alcohol, any medication or other substances which may affect the ability to care for children. If I needed to take medication, I would seek medical advice first, and only continue to work if the medical advice was that the medication would be unlikely to impair my ability to look after children properly. I store all medication securely out of reach of the children at all times.

A child cannot normally be withheld from someone who has parental responsibility for them, however, Ofsted confirm that I have a duty of care to keep them safe if a parent arrives clearly under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Therefore, children will not be released into the care of anyone collecting, even those with parental responsibility, if I believe they are under the influence of alcohol, medications or substances which would impair their ability to look after a child properly. I would contact the next named emergency contact. If they are unable to collect immediately, I would continue to care for the child until a collection could be made.

12. Attendance - Regular attendance for your child is crucial for their holistic development. It supports academic learning, social and emotional growth, physical development and allows for early identification of concerns, so Early Help can be accessed. Additionally it fosters a sense of routine and structure. Children who attend their early years settings regularly are more likely to have better attendance records in primary and secondary school, and achieve higher academic performance in later years. Parents with strong partnerships with their child's early years setting are more likely to have better involvement with school for their child's entire education, which paths their way to success.

I know that a child being absent from early years settings repeatedly, or for a prolonged period of time, can be a vital sign of safeguarding concerns. It is my policy to ensure that all children in my care are safe, so I request that if your child is not going to be attending a booked session, as per their contracted hours, you contact me prior to their expected arrival time, either first thing in the morning or the night before.

In the event that a child does not arrive as expected I will contact parents/carers in a timely manner, usually 20 minutes after the time the child was due to arrive, but no later an hour later, to check everything is alright. If I am unable to contact parents/carers, I will contact the emergency contacts detailed on the registration forms and child's contract. If I am still unable to contact anyone, I will implement my safeguarding procedures. This may include going to the registered address for the child, contacting the local police and asking them to undertake a welfare check at the registered address and contacting Children's First Response Hub to report my concerns. I will regularly monitor all children's attendance patterns and trends. Where I have repeated absences without notification, and I have concerns I will make a referral to Children's First Response Hub 01202 123 334 childrensfirstresponse@bcpcouncil.gov.uk.

When a family has a social worker, and the child stops attending my setting I am legally obliged to inform their social worker.

To fulfil statutory requirements in the EYFS 2025 I will hold at least three emergency contacts on registration, where possible, which will be reviewed regularly to ensure currency. I will have a clear record of the dates and times children are due to attend, and will accurately record the times that your child arrives and departs my setting. I will record details of absences, including dates and reasons given as reported by parents/carers.

13. Late Collection – At no time should I be in breach of my legal requirements for ratio of child to adult (EYFS 2025). Therefore, it is imperative parents (or other designated person) collect on time. Parents should inform me if they’re going to be late, no later than 20 minutes before their child’s due collection time. If appropriate the parents of the child due to come into setting will be contacted and delayed by the relevant time, if at all possible. When a parent fails to advise me, they will be late, and does not collect their child at the due collection time, I will call the parent’s contact numbers. Then I will try the emergency contact number. During this time, I will continue to look after the child safely. I will continue to try to both parents and emergency contacts, but after 20 minutes from the original agreed collection time, if I am unable to reach anyone, I will call Children’s First Response Hub. Tel: 01202 123334. Details of late collection will be recorded daily, and I will discuss this with parents. Additional time a child stays in setting will be charged as a proportion of my current £6.00 per hour, rounded up to the nearest 15 minutes. I would use my professional judgement to determine whether I should notify Ofsted using their ‘Report a serious childcare incident’ form. The greater the risk to children posed by the late collection, the more likely I would notify Ofsted, for example meaning I had two non-mobile babies, which would be harder to evacuate in the event of fire, terrorist attack, alongside other children.

14. Collection - Children will only be released from my care to the parent/carer or to someone named and authorised by them. If the person collecting the child is not previously known to me, I will need full details and a description, which I will use alongside the agreed password to confirm identity. In any event, if I am unsure of the identity of anyone collecting the child, I will ring the parent/carer to check before allowing the child to leave my care. Children will not be released into the care of anyone that I have reason to believe is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Children will not be released to anyone under the age of 18.

15. Smoking and Vaping - Daisy Dolls, including the grounds and buildings, is a smoke free environment. Nobody living on the premises smokes. Please refrain from smoking, vaping or using e-cigarettes at all times. A booklet is available if you would like to learn more about the harmful effects of second-hand smoke to children.

16. Fire - Whilst there is no longer a requirement in the EYFS to have a written risk assessment, my first priority is always the safety of the children and adults on the premises in the event of a fire.

With this in mind:

I have completed Fire safety training
The children are involved in fire safety activities, so they are aware of the dangers of fire and know how to evacuate safely.
Smoke detectors that are not hard wired are checked weekly.
I maintain clear routes of escape, free of clutter and toys.
A no smoking policy is in place.
Sources of ignition such as matches are stored out of reach.
No scented candles are used during setting hours.
Cooking is kept to a minimum during setting hours, using a ‘common sense’ approach to potential sources of ignition such as the cooker and the toaster.
The cooker is turned off at the cooker point during setting hours.
Sockets are never overloaded. A suitable multi adaptor is used.
I maintain vigilance at all times.

17. Equality – I follow my legal responsibilities under the Equality Act 2010, which includes fair and equal treatment of everyone regardless of their Age, Gender reassignment, Being married or in a civil partnership, Being pregnant or on maternity leave, Disability, Race including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, Religion or belief, Sex, Sexual orientation. These are known as the 9 protected characteristics.

Safeguarding and Welfare Policy​

Safeguarding and Welfare Policy