Little Swans Day Nursery

Transition Policy

 Policy Reviewed and Updated: April 2014 

Reviewed by: Elaine Boulton Nursery Owner

Little Swans Day Nursery is fully committed to the welfare of each child. Care and attention is given to each stage of the child’s transition to, through and beyond the nursery.

Aims:

This policy is intended to support staff, children, parents and carers at key transition point. The aim of this policy is to create smoother transitions within the nursery and between nursery and home and nursery and school, as well as other Early Years Settings.

At Little Swans we appreciate that entering a new situation, a new room and a new key person can be a stressful time. Some points of transition such as starting at the nursery and moving up to another area of the nursery, can be especially so. This can be due to the change of scenery, the change of staff and the change of the play based curriculum. Change can lead to insecurity and stress. Children under stress may become withdrawn and unresponsive or demonstrate inappropriate behaviour. Both extremes can inhibit learning.

It is therefore the aims of this policy to:

• Strategies to ensure continuity of experience.

• Methods of record keeping which can be used to support the transition process.

• Establishing and managing carefully the transition between home, nursery and other settings, to support everyone involved.

• Promote the smooth transition of children at the start of each new situation

• Prevent and alleviate stress

• Promote continuity of teaching caring and learning

By the time a child attending the nursery reaches school age, they would have already experienced transitions, including:

• The transition from home to nursery

• The transition between base rooms

• And possibly the transition from one provider to another

Key Principles on which we operate

• The collection of information prior to the child starting in a new situation/area will be in cooperation and partnership with parents, existing staff, receiving staff and if age appropriate with the child

• If the child is starting at the nursery we offer parents a home visit. During the visit the child will be introduced to the key person who will care for them

• The home visit pack is specially adapted for completion by the whole family so that the nursery can help all members of the family feel secure and happy with the service we offer. It also helps it identify at which stage of development the child is at prior to starting at the nursery

• Discussions and collection of information will focus on the whole child and not just child development. For example, routines, interests, family unit, relevant medical information alongside of any additional needs

• We understand the importance of parents’ wishes for the care of their child and ask parents how and in what way we can accommodate this via a questionnaire

• We offer home visits for parents who may be experiencing difficulty with their child’s behaviour so that we may help and assist a positive attitude between home and nursery

• Timescales for transition are variable to meet the individual needs of the child

• Other relevant information e.g. social care issues, special educational needs, looked after child etc. (all compliant with the Data Protection Act) will be shared on a need to know basis.

• Moving to another room within nursery: Parents/Guardian will be informed of any move of room and will be invited to meet staff and look around the new classroom with their child. The child will have visits to their new room prior to making a permanent move, building on the time they stay and adjusting to the needs of the child from an hour to a full morning or afternoon.

• If moving area becomes very stressful for a child then their key person will take them to the new room and stay with them on their first visits. Jelly baby children will make the move across to Smarties with caution and will go with many of their friends from the baby unit at the same time. They will also be familiar with the staff from Smarties as they will have spent time with them in the play area as well as during visits to the new area.

• Children leaving to go to school: We will ensure that the children are informed about moving onto school through stories, circle time, Pictures and visits to our local primary school. We will also encourage teachers of the schools the children will be moving to visit the children in the nursery environment. We will also ensure that children’s transition documents are passed to the child’s relevant school.

• Children who have additional needs: We will ensure that all paperwork is passed on and if necessary to a new school or nursery. E.g.

Individual Education Plans for Individual Activity Plans and any other relevant information regarding the children’s additional needs. We will pass on a passport booklet with photo and information about the child’s progress and routines where necessary and will liaise with staff to ensure the child’s needs are still being met.

Where necessary we will have a transition meeting with nursery/school staff to pass on information with the child’s parent/guardian.

Upon Entry to Nursery

The following steps are taken to ensure that both the child and parents are confident, informed, happy and relaxed about attending the setting;

• An informative up to date interactive website allows parents to gather insight into the daily routines policies and procedures of the nursery

• A descriptive prospectus allows parents to have an overall view of the nursery

• A comprehensive show around the nursery during a viewing appointment

• During the show around if the child is present they have the opportunity to stay with the same age group in the setting to get them acquainted with the surroundings

• A detailed child’s entry record for parents to complete in consultation with a key staff member

• Attention is given to parents anxieties where feedback is gathered via questionnaire format as well as verbal communication

• Settling in sessions are offered to parents to support the transition from home to nursery and provide the foundations to form attachments to the child’s key person as well as becoming accustomed to nursery environment and routine

• Special consideration is given to children un the age of two years where it has been acknowledged that times and routine may impinge on settling in

• During busy periods staggered intake of children ensures their key person can spend time with them developing routines, settling in etc.

• A six week review is carried out with all new parents to see how they feel their child is settling into nursery and their new routine

• Pre-school staff takes the pre-school children to visit the local primary school in June of each year prior to them starting in September. This allows the children to become familiar with school staff and surroundings

Rationale:

At Little Swans we believe that all children and their families are individual, we have a duty to ensure each child has equality of opportunity, a foundation for positive learning needs to be established. We work with children and their families to make them feel comfortable and emotionally secure as possible from point of entry.

Young children starting at the nursery and school need support to enable them to adjust to a temporary separation from their family. They need to feel that they are valuable, a competent member of their new social group as well as developing positive attitudes towards the range of new experiences they will encounter.

Staff at the nursery is committed to helping children retain their self-confidence and self-respect that they have already gained at home or in previous settings. We believe that it is our role to build on the work of the family and take steps to ensure the child is valued as an individual in the setting.

Therefore we aim to welcome all children as individuals and will meet their needs accordingly. Getting to know a child and planning for admission to the setting require parents and practitioners to engage in an equal partnership in which both learn from each other.

Purposes/Outcomes:

We want:

• Each area of the nursery to offer a comprehensive transition period which is understood by staff, children and parents.

• To provide close links between staff and families, so that children and adults already know someone in the setting.

• Ensure that children and their families know what to expect when starting at the setting.

• Prepare children and their families for the new experience.

• Allow children to settle at their own pace without feeling pressured.

• To encourage children to participate in nursery routine and activities.

• Ensure children and families are able to communicate with staff, and are fully aware of routines, procedures and expectations of the setting. When barriers are identified we want to work with families to overcome the barriers of communication.

• To provide parents and carers with the opportunities to share information, concerns or ask questions.

• To continue to give parents and carers time to tell staff what their child is experiencing at home.

• Staff to demonstrate their respect for parent/carers’ knowledge by asking for their views and listening to what they say.

• To encourage parent/carers’ to support their child and their learning within the nursery.

• To provide an environment which is safe, secure, welcoming and inviting for children, parents, carers and visitors.

• To create and maintain an ethos and learning environment that is responsive and flexible to cater for each child’s needs and reflects the principles of the Early Years Foundation Stage.

Guidelines:

We consider transitions to be a priority and the above is in place at the nursery to support children and families during transitions.

We will always try to make any move for the children as smooth as possible and will endeavour to help the child and their parent as much as is necessary with any transition their child may need to make, be it moving to school, another nursery, moving house etc. and would encourage parents to make us aware of any changes to their child’s life that we may be able to help them with.

Settling in Nursery – Policy and Practice

Reviewed – April 2014 by Samantha Tranter Nursery Manager

This policy represents the agreed principles for settling in throughout the Nursery. All Nursery staff, representing Little Swans Day Nursery has agreed this policy.

We want children to feel safe and happy in the absence of their parents, to recognise other adults as a source of authority, help and friendship and to be able to share with their parents /carers each child’s learning and experiences at the nursery.

We believe as Early Years practitioners we have a key role to play in working with parents to support their child.

At little Swans Day Nursery we understand that children cannot play or learn successfully if they are anxious or unhappy. Our settling in procedures aim to help parents to help their child/ren to feel comfortable in the nursery and support the transitional period.

To enable children and families to benefit from what the nursery has to offer, and for children to be confident that their parents will return at the end of the session/day, whilst being cared for in an environment which ensures the emotional wellbeing and development of all children.

In order to accomplish this, we will:

• Aim to ensure your child’s introduction to the nursery is as stress free as possible through careful consultation with parent’s which enables us to build a picture of each child’s individual needs.

• Encourage parents to visit the nursery with their child during the week before admission and when booking an appointment to view the nursery prior to any decision being mad. Please refer to nursery’s Transition policy

• Introduce flexible admission procedures, if appropriate, to meet the needs of individual families and children, at no cost to the parent

• Make sure that the children receive no less than three/five settling in sessions of two/three hours per time. This helps to familiarise your child with the nursery, the nursery staff and the other children, and provides the opportunity to give your journey a trail run.

• Carry out home visits prior to a child starting at the nursery in order to find out about the child, their routine as well as allowing the child to see the key person in the home environment in order to instil confidence for when they start at the setting

• To know and understand each child’s individual needs so the key person can ensure that appropriate guidance and support are offered to the parent and child from the onset

• Make clear to families from onset that they will be supported in the nursery for as long as it takes to settle their child, building partnerships which will continue to grow throughout their child’s attendance at the nursery

• Reassure parents whose children seem to be taking a long time to settle

• Consider changing days or times if children are taking longer to settle.

• Introduce new families into the nursery on a staggered basis, for example two new children a day for a week if new intake is “busy”.

• Encourage parents , where appropriate, to separate from their children from the first short session by being honest with them, telling them that they will not be staying at nursery themselves, but will be coming back in a short while to collect them. Goodbye, followed by “I’ll be back soon” is much more reassuring to a child then disappearing once the child has started to play.

• If your child is tearful or starts clinging, pass your child to their key person or other member of staff who will cuddle and give reassurance.

• Parents are encouraged to phone during settling in sessions to ask about their child’s welfare.

• When children are settling into new areas around the nursery. The child’s key person will support the transition through developing strategies which are individual to the child’s needs whilst supporting families.

• Children are encouraged to bring comforters into nursery when they start as we have found they are more easily settled with familiar items/ toys around them that they associate with home.

• Parents/carer will receive verbal feedback from the key person about the settling in session as well as a settling report detailing what they have done, eaten, if they have had a sleep etc... (see appendix A)

Gathering Information

Before a child starts at the nursery we provide time for a member of staff and parent to complete detailed registration forms together, providing staff with key information regarding each child’s background and needs as well as supporting parents who may have a learning difficulty or where English is an additional language. As well as this a questionnaire is completed by each parent/carer. This takes into account their anxieties and needs as well as their child’s. All information is collected and shared with key staff. A home visit before a child starts at the nursery allows staff to follow up on the information given during registration and make relevant changes if necessary to ensure the information at point of admission is accurate.

Along with carrying out the home visit we also give parents and child an “All about Me” book. This helps staff to identify the child’s current stage of development and assists the nursery in planning the next steps and planning for each child’s settling in. From gathering information about the child the key person is able to look at them as a whole; building up a broad picture of their well being; interests; characteristics and learning and development across all 7 areas of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).

The home visit also takes into account the views of parents and carers as well as the views of the child.

In the booklet we have a section for the parent to complete asking how they feel about their child starting at the setting; how they would like the nursery to assist in this process; how we may help the parent feel more confident to leave their child.

We gather as much knowledge about a child as we possibly can from a mix of observations and communication such as observing the child in different settings such as home and nursery as well as discussions with parents, family and other settings that a child has/does attend across the course of a week and prior to the child starting at nursery.

After the child has been attending the nursery for a period of six weeks we hold a review with the parent/s, carer. This gives an opportunity for parent and key person to share information where parental contribution is valued. At this stage the key person with baseline a child’s development, enabling next steps in learning to be identified and shared.

For families who speak more than one language at home we try to make sure we appoint the right key person for the family. This could be a member of staff who speaks the home language, such as Urdu.

Children are individuals and must be treated as such. We do not expect all children to settle at the same time. We look at family background e.g. have they attended nursery before or playgroup? Have they been to a childminder? Do they have brothers and sisters at home etc? All of these questions are important and the more we ask the more we will understand about the needs of each individual child.

Once a child’s background and confidence/ character have been assessed the nursery may then alter their timetable accordingly. This is particularly relevant to babies.

Ongoing observations, communication with parent/carers and assessments of children in attendance at the nursery provide staff opportunities to continue planning. Key persons can identify areas and practice which require change so we can continue to meet the needs of all children and families during their time with us at nursery.

Signed: .................................................... Date: .............................................

Samantha Tranter

Nursery Manager

Little Swans Day Nursery Complaints Procedure

March 2014

Parents

Making a complaint to your child’s nursery

Introduction

The management and staff of Little Swans Day Nursery will always endeavor to work in partnership with parents and carers to meet the needs of all the children in our care. However, if you have a complaint or concern about your child’s care at nursery you should be able to discuss and highlight your concerns through an informal discussion with your child’s key person. If you feel the concern is not dealt with effectively then we encourage parents to discuss this with the nursery manager or owner.

If you cannot resolve a problem informally, then we have a formal complaints procedure which you can follow.

This document describes the process and procedure for dealing with complaints raised by parents or carers.

This document is made available to all parents upon admission to the nursery , and is kept in the main policy and procedures folder as well as on our website www.littleswans.org.uk

 Parents and carers are welcome to discuss any concerns or issues with management at any time and we encourage input on any aspect of the nursery.

The Procedure

Contacting the nursery

If you are worried about your child’s welfare or learning at the nursery, your child’s key person or room supervisor is the best person to approach first. Key persons will usually be in the room during the day. However if they are not available then you can leave a message in the office for them to get back to you.

If your child’s key person cannot help or you are not satisfied with their response, you can talk to the room supervisor.

You should be able to arrange a meeting or a telephone conversation with the supervisor through the nursery office. If this is not practical, you may wish to make a written complaint.

When a member of staff receives a complaint the manager must be informed. If the complaint is against the manager then the registered person should be informed; Elaine Boulton, Owner.

Complaining to management

If your complaint is not resolved, the next stage is to approach Samantha Tranter, Nursery Manager or Elaine Boulton, Nursery Owner. Your complaint must be put in writing at this stage. We will notify you of the outcome of the investigation within 28 days of receiving the complaint. You can also ask for a copy of the nursery complaints procedure.

A meeting will be arranged where the nursery manager and the Nursery Owner with the room supervisor present; where appropriate. Management in agreement with yourself may decide to ask your child’s key person to be present as well as other staff members, dependent on the nature of the compliant.

A written record of the complaint will be completed. This will cover:

Summary of the nature of the compliant

 Details of any action taken

 Outcome of the investigation

These details will be recorded in the form shown in Annex A. We will take care to maintain confidentiality by not naming individuals on the form, e.g. we will use child A and staff member B.

The investigation procedure

• Following initial review of the complaint by the manager or nursery owner, confidential interviews will be conducted with all parties concerned and logged.

• In the event to a complaint that relates to safeguarding, the Safeguarding Children Procedure will be followed in accordance with the Local authorities’ procedures with regard to the Birmingham Safeguarding Children Board.

• All other complaints will be reviewed by the manager and owner; appropriate actions will be taken.

• We will provide a summary on request to parent/carer

• We will provide an account of the complaint to the parent/carer concerned within 28 days

• We will retain these records for 10 years, and they will be available to Ofsted at any time.

At the end of the meeting and once receiving clarification of the action taken, if you are still not satisfied with the outcome you can take the complaint further by going to OFSTED.

Complaining to OFSTED

OFSTED has powers to investigate certain types of complaint from parents to help them to decide whether to inspect the nursery, though in most cases you should raise any problems with the nursery first.

Types of complaint to which OFSTED can respond include:

• The nursery is not providing a good enough caring environment and the children may be at risk

• The children are not achieving as much as they should, or their individual needs are not being met

• The nursery is not well led and managed, or is not using its resources efficiently and effectively.

• The children’s personal development and wellbeing are being neglected

• The nursery is failing to meet the welfare requirements are the Early Years Foundation Stage

When considering a complaint, OFSTED can require the nursery to provide information. OFSTED can also record parents concerns for consideration during the nurseries next inspection.

When a complaint is very serious, OFSTED can arrange an immediate inspection of the nursery, this may be unannounced.

Policy reviewed by Miss Tranter Nursery Manager March 2014

Signed:

Reviewed by Miss Tranter, Nursery Manager 11.03.2014

For further information call the OFSTED helpline on 0300 123 1231

OFSTED

Piccadilly Gate

Store Street

Manchester

M1 2WD

www.ofsted.gov.uk

Little Swans Day Nursery E – Safety Policy

Reviewed by: Elaine Boulton nursery owner

Date of Review: March 2014

• Little Swans Day Nursery has appointed Mrs Samantha Tranter, Nursery Manager to be the E – Safety Co-ordinator.

Miss Tranter will have the overall legal, personal and moral responsibility to ensure online safety will be effectively considered. She will not only be responsible for the safety of our children and young people within the nursery, but also for the behaviours and expectations of any adults who affect or come into contact with the nursery. This list should not be considered exhaustive.

Who will write and review the policy?

• The policy has been written by Samantha Tranter, Nursery Manager and Mrs Elaine Boulton, Nursery Owner, using government guidelines and help from the Early Years Development Team.

• The nursery understands that it is not possible to eliminate all risks therefore the aim of this policy is to ensure that the level of risk at any time is not unacceptably high

• The E – Safety policy and its implementation will be reviewed annually or more often in the light of any advances in technology which may affect safety in our nursery (adversely or otherwise).

How can we safely use the internet to enhance learning?

The nursery has increased its computer numbers with improved internet access in Heroes (pre-school), and as a consequence, developing safe effective practice in internet use for teaching and learning is essential.

• The nursery internet access is expressly for enhancing the children’s development, which includes filtering appropriate to the needs of the curriculum through staff monitoring and supervision for children within the nursery at all times.

• Staff are taught what internet use is acceptable and what is not, and given clear objectives for internet use.

• Internet access is planned to enrich and extend learning activities. Access levels are reviewed to reflect the curriculum requirements and age of the children

• Staffs guide the children in on-line activities that will support the learning outcomes planned for the children’s age and stage of development.

• Children are educated in the effective use of the internet in research. Internet search sessions are led and supervised by a staff member at all times

How will children learn how to evaluate Internet content?

It is a sad fact that children may occasionally be confronted with inappropriate material, despite all attempts at filtering. Staff have been taught what to do if they experience material that they find distasteful, uncomfortable or threatening, through the nurseries Safe Guarding Policy.

• Our nursery endeavours to ensure that the copying and subsequent use of internet derived materials by staff and pupils complies with copyright law.

• As part of internet search sessions staff distinguish between sites which may have useful information and sites which are trying to sell us something.

• Our e-safety rules include that staff act immediately if they see anything that makes them feel uncomfortable on the internet by logging off and reporting to management if necessary.

Managing Information Systems

How will information systems security be maintained?

It is important to review the security of the whole system from user to the internet. This is a major responsibility that includes not only the delivery of essential learning services but also the personal safety of staff and pupils.

• The security of the nursery information systems is reviewed regularly by NOD and AVG solutions. They are reviewed yearly before they expire.

• Virus and spyware protection is carried out through NOD and AVG and is updated yearly

• Security strategies are discussed with the nursery ICT advisor, Andrew Tranter

• Security strategies are in place; with any materials downloaded from the internet cleared through management who have a secure password for the administrator account on all computer systems linked to the internet. In addition to this Heroes have an interactive white board where access to the internet is obtained frequently for the children during ICT activities. Staff always make sure they supervise these sessions and children are not allowed use without a member of staff being present

• The internet server is secure and login details are not shared

How will email be managed?

At Little Swans Day Nursery email is only used by staff when it has a specific purpose relating to topic work. However in the office both members of management have an email account that they access through a security password controlled system

• Staff are prohibited from using their own personal email account on the premises

• Any correspondence sent via staff members is sent through the nursery email address only

• Staff must not send jokes or other materials that the receiver may find offensive

• Any materials sent via email at the nursery must first be checked by a member of management

• Staff must not reveal personal details of themselves or others in email communication

How will published content be managed?

The contact details on the website should be the nursery address, email(s) and telephone number. Staff or pupils personal information must not be published.

Management and the ICT co-ordinator, Samantha Tranter will take overall editorial responsibility and ensure that content is accurate and appropriate.

Can children`s images or work be published?

• Permission is obtained from parents stating whether or not photographs of their child can be used on the website.

• Photographs are never accompanied by full names.

• If a name is used on our website (for example next to a piece of work on a display board) only the first name is used and is never accompanied by a photograph

• Named photographs of staff are used with the permission of each member of staff. If a member of staff does not wish for their photograph to be used, a child’s drawing will be used instead.

How will social networking and personal publishing be managed?

• Social networking sites are blocked by our filtering system.

• Staffs are told never to give out personal details of any kind which may identify themselves or others and/or their location.

• Staffs sign to say they are told not to use social networking sites to discuss work matters.

How will filtering be managed?

Little Swans Day Nursery 02 Broadband network uses NOD and AVG for filtering.

• The nursery will work with NOD and AVG to ensure that systems that protect the children are reviewed and improved.

• Management is made aware of filtering profile changes by NOD and AVG.

• If staff discover unsuitable sites, they must be reported to management and nursery ICT co-ordinator

• Any material that the nursery believes is illegal must be reported to NOD and AVG systems.

How can emerging technologies be managed?

Many emerging communications technologies offer the potential to develop new teaching and learning tools. These are accessed for educational benefit and a risk assessment carried out before use in the nursery is allowed.

How will Internet access be authorised?

• Parents sign our e-safety agreement before children are allowed to use the internet

• All staff must read and sign the “the Data Protection Policy” which covers written and electronic and read the guidance before using any nursery ICT resource

• Access to the internet is supervised by an adult at all times with access to specific approved on-line material

How will e-safety complaints be handled?

• Parents and staff should know how to submit a complaint. The facts of the case will need to be established, for instance whether the internet use was within or outside nursery

• Where necessary the complaints policy and disciplinary procedure is followed

How will e-safety rules be taught to children?

E-safety is taught prior to internet use and is also part of our PSHE curriculum. In addition

• Network and internet use is monitored by management

• As part of induction Management ensure they inform staff members how to raise the awareness and importance of safe and responsible internet use

How will the policy be discussed with staff?

• Staff will be updated through regular staff/supervisors meetings

• During the induction process

• Access of offsite training where available

• All staff are made aware of the nursery e-safety policy and its application and importance explained

• All staff sign an e-safety agreement

• Staff should be aware that internet traffic can be monitored and traced to the individual user. Discretion and professional conduct is essential

• Any incidents or allegations directed towards a person in a position of trust will be dealt with under the nurseries Safeguarding Policy and Procedures as well as the nursery Disciplinary Procedures

How will parent support be enlisted?

We consider it essential for parents and carers to be fully involved with promoting online safety within the setting, home and social environment, and as a result;

• Parents attention will be drawn to the nurseries e-safety policy in newsletters, the nursery prospectus as well as the nursery website

• Internet issues will be handled sensitively, and parents will be advised accordingly

• Parents to refrain from using their mobile phones while on the nursery premises

• Parents of children who are participating in nursery productions will be asked to consent on the day for their child to be video recorded and photographed by nursery staff and all other parents in attendance for their personal use

• Parents can access e-safety information via www.thinkuknow.co.uk The site is supported by CEOP`s (Child Exploitation and On line Protection Centre)

Other Useful Information and Contacts:

SWGfl Staying Safe

http://www.swgfl.org.uk/Staying-Safe

Collection of advice, support and resources for early Years practitioners and their managers, children and young people, parents and carers

Childnet International

http://www.childnet-int.org/

Wide range of resources, in particular the acclaimed “Know IT All for Parents and Carers”.

The Byron Review

http://www.dcsf.gov.uk/byronreview/

Click Clever Click Safe

The first UK Child Internet Safety Strategy (UKCCIS UK Council for Child Internet Safety).

Date of Policy: March 2014

Review Date: March 2015. The contents of this policy will be reviewed regularly, with updates being shared with the relevant individuals at the earliest opportunity

Signed: Nursery Manager    S. Tranter

Date:10.03.14

Signed: Nursery Owner       E.Boulton

Date:10.03.14

Little Swans Day Nursery Policy for claiming tax credits and benefits to support childcare costs

March 2014

Due to the high demand of parents/carers asking for written proof from the nursery of their child’s attendance and weekly childcare costs, in order to claim/continue to claim tax credits and the time this takes management to complete, there is a charge of £20 for this service.

When starting at Little Swans Day Nursery Parents/carers are given our unique Ofsted registration number to claim tax credits, once their child has completed their first full week.

Having contacted HM revenue and customs and investigated other proof of evidence that parents/carers can use to validate their child’s attendance at nursery, we advise that all parents/carers making a claim keep copies of the following documents for evidence to support your claim:

> Keep the copy of your original contract which is given to you when you register at the nursery for a place

> Keep receipts of all cash and cheque payments made directly to the nursery

> Keep copies of bank statements showing the outgoing’s to the nursery’s bank account

> Keep copies of letters from nursery advising of fee increase

> Keep a copy of the letter advising of a change to fees due to grant payments

> Keep a copy of changes in contract when your child increases or reduces days of attendance at the nursery

• If a parent/carer makes a claim and then withdraws their child from the nursery the tax office will be notified immediately.

• If a parent/carer does not start their child at the nursery but is using the nursery OFSTED number to claim child tax credits, the nursery will inform the authorities with immediate effect.

• New parents/carers must wait until their child has completed their first full week at the nursery before being given the nursery Ofsted number.

Requesting written information from nursery

> If a parent/carer requires management to complete a tax credit form for housing benefits etc., nursery can only do so with all of the relevant information brought into nursery at the same time. This means we need the covering letter from the tax office/council informing us which period is being claimed for as the tax offices do not send the nursery any information, it is the parents/carers responsibility to provide this.

>Management will not sign and put the nursery Ofsted registration number to any forms without adequate information of what they are signing for

>Bringing in part of the form and asking for a signature and Ofsted number to confirm past and present payments is deemed inadequate information by the nursery and therefore no signature will be obtained

>Claims that are found to be false will be reported to the relevant tax office

> We reserve the right to refuse to sign documents where a parent/carer is showing aggressive behaviour towards a staff member concerning the completion of tax/council credit forms

> The parent may be asked to leave the nursery and their child’s place withdrawn if management feel threatened in anyway. Aggressive behaviour will not be tolerated.

Policy reviewed by Miss Tranter, Nursery Manager

March 2014

Signed: ……S. Tranter 

Mobile Phone policy

(Safeguarding)

Reviewed: February 2014

Reviewed By: Elaine Boulton Nursery Owner

It is a specific legal requirement that providers have a policy and procedure that covers the use of mobile phones in the setting (p13, Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage 2012). Little Swans nursery pay regard to this when writing their mobile phone policy

Policy Statement

All mobile phones that belong to staff members are kept in the staff room/conservatory away from the children and not accessible to staff whilst on duty. Staff is advised to give all relatives and relevant authorities the main nursery number so that they can be contacted in case of an emergency.

Introduction:

The Use of mobile phones while off the premises on day trips and outings

Mobile phones have a place on outings as they are often the only means of contact available while off the premises and can be helpful in ensuring children are kept safe.

• The statutory guidance listed in the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage states that providers should take contact telephone numbers and a mobile phone on outings.

At Little Swans Day Nursery mobile phones are used when staff are off the premises on day trips/outings only. This is with permission obtained from the Senior Management Team for a senior member of staff to carry their personal phone. E.g. the manager and a supervisor/qualified member of staff will carry their own mobile phone on their person; this is included on the risk assessment prior to leaving the premises. They are prohibited from taking personal calls while off the premises and at no time will they use the phone for taking pictures of the children. Parent contact details will not be stored or held on a call list; if parents have been contacted for any reason while off the premises their number will be deleted once the conversation has ended. As the safety of children is paramount, casual or inappropriate use of mobile phones by parents accompanying children on nursery trips is prohibited at all times.

The use of mobile phones in the setting

‘The safety of the children at the nursery is paramount.’

One of the key ways that we support children’s development and engage parents in their learning is through photographs that record their activities and achievements that are then entered into the child’s learning journeys and assessments as well as display boards and multi- media slide shows.

At the nursery, we ask permission from parents/carers to consent to the use of cameras for appropriate recording purposes. We need to ensure that staff and children can still feel supported and make the most of the benefits of modern technology to support learning and development, whilst ensuring that children are kept safe.

Mobile phones should not be used when staff are working with the children.

Any photos being took of children should take place with due regard to the law and the need to safeguard the privacy, dignity, safety and well-being of the children who attend the nursery.

Aim:

To make all professionals from other agencies, visitors, staff and parents at the setting aware of our policy around the use of mobile phones. In addition, set out clearly the practices at Little Swans, to draw everyone’s attention to this aspect around safeguarding.

Expectations:

1. All staff is aware that mobile phones are prohibited around the nursery and can only be used in the staff room/conservatory at lunchtimes. This ensures the quality of supervision and care is not compromised. This is covered and signed for by the staff member during induction.

2. Mobile phones need to be left in the staff room/conservatory, switched off, in the box provided. They should be signed in /out each time they are used, on the sheet provided daily.

3. All staff are responsible at the start of the day and end of staff breaks to check that their mobile phones have been handed in.

4. Under no circumstances are staff allowed to keep mobile phones in their bags or pockets whilst on duty. With no exception.

5. Should staff need the use of a phone whilst on duty, they are allowed access to the nursery landline located in the staff room/conservatory and at various points around the building, once they have obtained permission from a senior member of staff.

6. Professionals or visitors that are at the setting will be asked to keep their mobiles in the office. If they need to make a call then this will take place in the office away from children.

7. Parent/carers should at all times where possible avoid making or taking calls when they come to collect or bring their child to nursery. Staff want to talk to you about your child’s day or their needs mobile phones can cause distractions.

8. Only the cameras supplied by the nursery can be used to take images of the children during activities and for assessment purposes. Careful consideration should be given as to how activities involving the taking of images are organised and undertaken. Mobile phones are taken by a designated staff member when accompanying children on an outing, photos will not be taken on phones and this information will be shared with parent/volunteers. Phones will be used to keep in contact with the nursery and parent/ carers while off the premises.

9. Images will be stored in nursery and will only be used for display purposes and the LCD slideshow that is available to view in the main building. Any images that need to be discarded will be done in the appropriate way; images that are needed for future reference will be kept on the premises, staff members will be allowed to have access to them.

10. Any inappropriate use of mobile phones/cameras should be brought immediately to the attention of room supervisors and management.

11. If any staff member, visitor, volunteer or professionals refuse to comply with the nursery mobile phone policy, disciplinary/action will be taken.

IT IS PROHIBITED FOR STAFF, VISITORS, VOLUNTEERS AND PROFESSIONALS TO USE A MOBILE PHONE FOR ANY PURPOSE ON THE NURSERY PREMISES

Further information

The Department for Education published guidance on the use of mobile phones at:

www.childrens-centres.org/Support Documents/MobilePhonesInEYSettingsNov09.doc.

Little Swans Day Nursery Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy

Reviewed November 2013

Designated Safeguarding Persons (DSP)

Samantha Tranter Nursery Manager

Elaine Boulton Nursery Owner (in the absence of Samantha Tranter)

Focus:

The following policy and procedures are in place at Little Swans Day Nursery in order to protect and safeguard children, parents/carers, staff and visitors.

Policies are consistent with the following guidance:

• Working together to safeguard children 2013

• What to do if you think a child is being abused

• Birmingham Safeguarding Children’s Board (BSCB) procedures.

• Revised Early Years Foundation Stage 2012

Childcare Act 2006, Section Five states:

• We have a duty to implement the Early Years Foundation Stage, meeting the learning and development requirements, and must comply with the welfare requirements.

• This policy ensures that all the staff and parents/carers in the nursery setting are clear about the actions necessary with regard to child protection and safeguarding issues.

Safeguarding

Every child deserves the opportunity to learn and develop in an environment that is both safe and secure. Through the guidance of the Early Years Foundation Stage we aim to offer an enabling environment for children, where risks are minimised and well managed, and children are protected from harm and abuse.

The nursery and staff recognise that they have a responsibility alongside other professionals to safeguard children. The health, safety and wellbeing of the children in our care are of paramount importance. We strive to create an environment which is welcoming, safe and stimulating, and where children are able to enjoy learning and grow in confidence, encouraging children to do their best. Through incorporating a child centred approach, the nursery recognises that every child is individual and unique. Staff recognises not only the rights of children but that children learn best when they are healthy, safe and secure, when their individual needs are met and when they have positive relationships with adults caring for them.

Promoting health and well being

 One aspect of safeguarding children, is promoting good health and wellbeing. Staff are expected to carry out high standards of hygiene and cleanliness as part of their daily routine. Ensuring staff have good knowledge of infection control; the nursery management prevent the spread of infection and illness in the setting. We have vigorous procedures in place for administering medication and supporting children with medical needs or appear unwell during the day.

 All staff understands their duty to report and inform of accidents and incidents which may occur during the day at the setting and the correct procedures which must be followed.

 Our comprehensive registration and home visit follow ups ensure that all parents/carers are provided with time and opportunity to discuss their child’s needs in detail and disclose any information relating to their care. For example allergies are identified prior to a child starting at the nursery which enables staff to prevent contact with allergenic substances.

Risk Assessments

 Regular risk assessments help to identify aspects of the nursery environment that need to be checked on a regular basis, decide what should be done to prevent harm and make sure that the relevant actions are taken and updated whenever necessary.

 All staff are trained and aware of their responsibilities when identifying risks and taking reasonable precautions

 All staff in areas conducts formal risk assessments and constantly reappraise both the environments and activities to which the children are being exposed. Staff must make necessary adjustments to ensure their safety and the safety of the children at all times.

 We encourage children to keep safe, recognise different situations and how to behave in response to them. The environment around the nursery is safe and secure in which children can interact and explore.

 Children are given opportunities to take appropriate risks as part of their learning and understanding of the world

Suitable Staff

The nursery follows regulations set by the government as outlined in the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012. The nursery adheres to DBS (The Disclosure and Barring Scheme) Vetting and barring and referral procedures. And will not knowingly engage a barred person in regulated activity with children.

Miss Tranter and Mrs Boulton are responsible for ensuring that people looking after children are suitable to fulfil the requirements of the role.

 Any adults who are likely to have regular contact with children are required to complete a DBS disclosure, through a regulated government agency for any person aged 16 and over who:

• Works directly with children

• Works on the premises of which the childcare is provided

Note: Enhanced DBS checks for work within regulated activity will tell us (where requested) if the person is on one of the ISA’s barred lists.

 All staff are expected to disclose any convictions, cautions, court orders, reprimands and warnings which may affect their suitability to work with children (whether received before or during their employment at the setting)

 Staff are required to supply two references; one of which must be able to comment on their suitability of working with children. (See recruitment policy and procedures).

 Anyone who has not had their suitability checked or awaiting their DBS clearance and references will not be allowed to have unsupervised contact with children who are being cared for by the nursery.

 Prior to a position being confirmed applicants must produce original qualification certificates (copies will be taken and confirmed).

 Identity checks will be completed as part of the DBS process.

 A DBS register is kept on the premises at all times in the office this details the following:

• Applicants Name

• Criminal records disclosure/reference number

• Date the disclosure was issued

• Who obtained it

• When it is due to be renewed

 As part of good practice nursery request all employees to review their DBS checks every three years whilst in employment at the nursery.

We ensure a rigorous recruitment procedure in order to ensure staff working for our nursery are suitable to do so. We also ensure that all persons working for us have the right to work in the UK. A rigorous recruitment process with a probationary period of 12 weeks is in place at the nursery and all staff receive an induction and regular supervision.

Child Protection

All Children have the right to protection, regardless of age, gender, race, culture or disability.

They have the right to be safe in our nursery.

Please refer to Equal Opportunities, Inclusion and Special Educational Needs policy).

Samantha Tranter (Nursery Manager) is the lead practitioner who is responsible for implementing child protection procedures; in her absence Mrs Boulton (Nursery Owner) takes responsibility.

The role of the lead practitioner

 Is responsible for liaison with local statutory children’s services/agencies, and with the Local Safeguarding children’s board.

 To provide support, advice and guidance to any other staff on an ongoing basis, and on any specific safeguarding issue as required.

 Attend relevant child protection training courses delivered by the local authority to support their role which enables them to identify, understand and respond appropriately to signs of possible abuse and neglect.

Definitions of Abuse and neglect

Physical Abuse

Physical abuse may involve hitting, shaking, throwing poisoning or burning or scalding, drowning, suffocating or otherwise causing physical harm to a child.

Emotional Abuse

Emotional abuse is the persistent emotional ill treatment of a child such as to cause severe and persistent adverse effects on the child’s emotional development. It may involve making a child feel or believe that they are worthless or unloved, inadequate or valued only insofar as they meet needs of another person. Some level of emotional abuse is involved in all types of ill treatment of a child, though it may occur alone.

Sexual Abuse

Sexual Abuse involves forcing or enticing a child or young person to take part in sexual activities, whether or not the child is aware of, or consents to, what is happening.

The activities may involve physical contact, including penetrative acts such as rape, buggery or oral sex or non-penetrative acts such as fondling. And can also include non – contact activities such as involving children in looking at, or in the production of pornographic material or watching sexual activities.

Neglect

Neglect is the persistent failure to meet a child’s basic physical and/ or psychological needs, likely to result in the serious impairment of the child’s health or development. It may involve a parent or carer failing to provide adequate food, shelter and clothing, leaving a young child home alone or the failure to ensure that a child gets appropriate care or treatment. It may also include neglect of, or unresponsiveness to, a child’s basic emotional needs.

Domestic Abuse

Any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse (psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional) between adults, aged 18 years or over, who are or have been intimate partners or are family members regardless of gender. Domestic abuse can have an impact on children in the family home and on their development; domestic abuse can link with other areas of abuse.

Staff Training

All staff receives training to understand the safeguarding and child protection policy and procedures. Staff receives updates regarding safeguarding issues and attend training provided by the local authority to enable staff to identify signs of possible abuse and neglect at the earliest opportunity and respond in a timely and appropriate way as well as completing child protection training regarding the nursery’s procedures in house. These may include:

• Significant changes in children’s behaviour;

• Deterioration in children’s general well-being;

• Unexplained bruising, marks or signs of possible abuse or neglect;

• Children’s comments which give cause for concern;

• Any reasons to suspect neglect or abuse outside the setting, for example in the child’s home and/or

• Inappropriate behaviour displayed by other staff members of staff, or any other person working with the 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 (see Mobile Phone, Camera and e safety Policies)

Procedures

All staff including students on placements and volunteers working within the setting has the opportunity/ duty to listen carefully to what children say and observe any changes in their appearance or behaviour which may result from abuse or neglect and to act quickly and responsibly in any instance that comes to their attention, including reporting suspicions around abuse or neglect.

 Staff are aware of their responsibilities; supervisors and management are clear about maintaining and supervising staff performance. Supervisors are responsible and accountable for their areas and decisions that affect other areas in the nursery.

 Staff must alert Samantha Tranter or in her absence Elaine Boulton to any issues for concern in a child’s life at home or elsewhere.

 Any action taken must be in line with the guidance and procedures of Birmingham’s Safeguarding Children’s Board. The nursery will also be guided on the child’s needs and development following the outline of the Every Child Matters Document.

 All staff are aware that it is not their responsibility to investigate whether or not a child has been abused; this responsibility lies with Social Care and the Police. All child protection and safeguarding concerns must be passed directly to Social Care and the Integrated Access Teams and Samantha Tranter is the person who is responsible for this.

 In the event of a referral not being made; when a staff member has significant concerns, any individual has a duty to refer the child.

 Staff must communicate effectively when dealing with Child protection and safeguarding concerns/issues. All information must be treated as sensitive and confidential

 There may be times at the nursery when inappropriate behaviour needs to be challenged and sometimes this can lead to members of staff having to intervene. However this will only happen if the child is at harm or hurting other children

Or staff members. (see behaviour policy)

 All Visitors Must sign in/out of the visitor’s book. Any persons visiting the nursery in a professional capacity is required to provide proof of identity. Mobile Phones must be handed into the office on arrival. Appointments are made in advance to ensure the security of children, parent’s, staff and visitors. The nursery operates a diary system throughout.

 In the event of a staff member needing to challenge behaviour it is the nursery’s policy that the adult involved reports it to management immediately and records the incident. Staff are trained in the correct procedures for dealing with inappropriate behaviour and receive ongoing training (See Behaviour Policy)

 If any member of staff suspects that a child in the setting may be a victim of abuse, they must observe, record and report but remain impartial. These concerns must be passed to the Designated Safeguarding Officer, to be kept on file and passed to Children’s Services if necessarily.

 If the Designated Safeguarding Officer or in her absence Elaine Boulton does not feel that there is any course for concern but a staff member or volunteer disagree with her decision, the concerns must then be passed on directly to Social Care Services.

 Where there are child protection and safeguarding concerns, the Designated Safeguarding Officer or in her absence Elaine Boulton will contact the Area Integrated Access Team 0121 303 9515 email: IAT.Citywide@birmingham.gov.uk

Early Years Duty Line 8am – 6pm: General support/ advice/ safeguarding and queries 0121 675 4996 / 0121 675 1943

Emergency duty team (Outside office hours) 0121 675 4806

 If a child of whom of a member of staff has concerns about lives in the area of Solihull the contact numbers are as follows:

Contact Children and Families inter agency on:

Telephone: 0121-788-4333

Fax: 0121-788-4394

Out of hours: 0121-605-6060

 If a child makes a disclosure of abuse to a member of staff, they will be reassuring to the child and will write a report and then pass it onto the named person. The nursery may make a referral without communicating with parent’s first if they feel by talking to the parent the child or staff maybe at risk of further harm.

 To ensure any observations, reports etc… are documented at the earliest availability and within 24 hours. Advice will be taken from external agencies regarding time scales for any information they wish to have.

 At no time within the setting is any child left with an unqualified or trainee and are supervised at all times by a qualified member of staff. And under no circumstances are they allowed to assist the children when toileting, unless sanctioned by the nursery manager.

 No child is ever allowed to leave the setting with an adult who is not the normal collector of the child without prior permission being obtained and passwords being checked, as well as the child’s Date of Birth. Parent’s/ Carers are responsible for informing staff of any changes.

Domestic Abuse

 Should we become concerned that a parent/career or person in a position of trust at the nursery is subject to domestic abuse, we will pass our concerns onto the Social Care and Health Services for them to investigate. This action is to protect any children who may be subject to domestic abuse in the home environment.

 If we suspect that a person in a position of trust is a victim of domestic abuse we will in the first instance sign post them to an outside agency for support. If any children are present in the home we will past our concerns onto Health and Social Care Services. This person may become subject of a Position of Trust meeting.

When a child has a serious accident or dies

In all cases parents/carers will be notified in the first instance

In the event of all child deaths at a setting or any other place that you become aware of, you must report to the Birmingham Safeguarding Children Board (BSCB) and Ofsted.

The following must be followed:

 To report to the BSCB the designated person or staff member must complete Form A – Notification of child death (appendix a) and send it to:

• Cheryl Harnett - Child death overview Co- Ordinator

Birmingham safeguarding Children Board

TEL: 0121 464 2612

Email: Cheryl.a.harnett@birmingham.gov.uk

 To report to Ofsted about any serious accident, injury or death that occurs to a child while in the care of the nursery. This includes times where you are off the premises such as on an outing. Ofsted must be informed immediately and this must be followed up in writing within 14 days; otherwise the nursery will commit an offence. More information can be found in Ofsted publication:

Serious accidents, injuries and deaths that registered providers must notify to Ofsted and local child protection agencies.

Ofsted can be contacted on: 0300 123 1231.

Procedures if a concern/allegation is raised concerning a person in a position of trust

How staff can protect themselves from allegations being made

Staff in the nursery are privileged to be able to work closely with the children and their families forming warm and caring relationships. However because of the nature of their work staff are also vulnerable to allegations of Child Abuse.

For their part staff need to avoid putting themselves into situations that may lead to allegations being made against them. And observe closely the Code of Staff Conduct and adhere to the policies and procedures of the nursery. And by following the principles of Good Practice the nursery not only protects the children but also the adults.

The nursery is also fitted with CCTV in all areas this not only helps us protect children and staff, but observe practice which supports staff supervisions and development.

All staff need to adhere to the job description and person specification; the procedures laid out in their inductions which are completed throughout their probationary period at the nursery.

Allegations made against a person in a position of Trust.

This procedure will be adhered to if the concern is related to their work in the nursery or anywhere else.

• I f a concern rises against any person in a position of trust that raises a query as to their suitability to work with children (this may include a cook, student, staff or volunteer). We will immediately take the person to one side and inform them that an allegation has been made against them.

• We will not at this point tell the person the nature of the allegation/s.

• We will remove the person from any direct contact with children and it may be necessary to suspend the person on full pay until the investigation is completed.

This action is intended to safeguard the welfare of the children and does not assume that the person is guilty.

• We will appoint a staff member in the nursery to offer support to the member of staff.

• If the parent of the child is not already aware of the concern we will immediately inform them, and where possible will ensure confidentiality of all parties concerned.

• We will then contact the Child Protection Officer for Early Years and Child Care Team on: 0121 303 6754.

• In her absence we will contact the Child Protection and Review Unit at Sheldon on 0121 675 1669, and ask to speak to a Principle Officer or The Integrated Access Team, this will be confirmed in writing.

• Ofsted will be informed of the concerns/allegation if it happened on the premises or elsewhere. We will confirm our actions to date; this will be confirmed in writing at the latest within 14 days of the allegation being made.

• We will fully co operate at all times with any External investigation, which may include a Multi agency “Position of Trust Co-ordination Meeting”. We will take on board any advice given in relation to the allegation.

• If the allegation is found to be true, we will take the person through a disciplinary process and dismiss them.

We will also refer their name to ISA (the appropriate body) in accordance to legislation and policy, for inclusion on the list of persons barred from working with children (List 99)

Contact Details for ISA

ISA: 01325953795

Email: info@isa.gov.uk

For further information on the duty to refer to the ISA, please see www.isa.homeoffice.gov.uk

• It may be proved to the nursery’s satisfaction that the person has abused one or more children. The above will apply.

• It may be proved to the nursery’s satisfaction that the person is not guilty of Abuse or

the enquires may be inconclusive, leaving suspicion, but no proof about the persons behaviour.

• If not proven we will follow the advice given by the Principle Officer for Social Care and the Child Protection Officer for Early Years and conduct an internal investigation looking at the practice of the setting and individual/s involved.

• Ofsted will be informed of the outcome and the action/processes taken.

Section Five

Poor Conduct resulting in dismissal

Ofsted deem under the welfare requirements as ‘suitable persons’ and therefore require settings to ensure effective procedures are in place and implemented to ensure appropriate action is taken should a member of staff be unsuitable

Any staff member or volunteer dismissed from their role at the nursery for ‘poor conduct’; and considered by management not to be working to the required standard and organisational requirements. Will be referred to the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) and may have their name listed for persons barred from working with children and vulnerable adults.

The ISA will make the overall decision on whether further action needs to be taken following the referral made by nursery management.

• It is the responsibility of management to ensure they have evidenced how they have considered whether to refer a staff dismissal to the ISA ,and

Reasons for not doing so must be recorded, detailing an accurate account of all investigations, discussions and action taken.

This procedure must also be followed when referring anyone in a position of trust to the ISA.

Any persons at the setting under the age of 18 years are afforded the protection of this policy.

This Policy was reviewed by Samantha Tranter, Nursery Manager Designated Person for Safeguarding.

Little Swans safeguarding Policy and procedures runs alongside the following policies in place at the nursery:

 Recruitment Policy and Induction pack

 Risk Assessments and Health and Safety

 Job descriptions and person specifications

 Student Placement Policy and induction pack

 The Administration and guidance on managing medicine Policy

 Accident Policy

 Adult Resources

 Code of practice for all staff/volunteers and students

 Health and Safety Policy

 Parent Partnership and Shared Care Policy

 Outings and Trips Policy

 Emergency Evacuation Policy

 Smoking, drugs and alcohol policy

 Behaviour Management Policy

 Equal Opportunities policy and procedures

 Mobile Phone Policy

 E- Safety Policy

 E- Safety Child Protection Procedures

 Internet access policy

 Inclusion Policy

 Whistle Blowing Procedures

 Late or non-collection of children

 Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Policy

Little Swans Safeguarding Statement

We believe that children learn best at Little Swans when they are healthy, safe and secure, when their individual needs are met and when they have positive relationships with the adults caring for them. We aim to create an environment which is welcoming safe and stimulating, and where children are able to enjoy their learning through play, to grow in confidence and to fulfill their potential.

Written policies and procedures are required to safeguard children or promote equality of opportunity, all staff members are given copies of these policies and procedures as part of their induction, and been explained to through training, practical assessments and supervisions. Updates are shared through staff meetings and email correspondence, this is also shared with parent/carers. All our policies and procedures are kept in a red folder in the main entrance of the nursery; policies can also be viewed online at www.littleswans.org.uk

It is essential that children are provided with safe and secure environments in which to interact and explore rich and diverse learning and development opportunities.

Information on safeguarding children within our organisation

February 2013

Within this organisation we undertake to safeguard children from harm and abuse at all times

We do this by ensuring that we have a robust recruitment procedure in place for vetting any one who works within our setting.

We also aim to ensure that all of our staff are trained in safeguarding children externally and during their induction. They are able to recognise signs and symptoms of abuse as well as effectively implementing our procedures when concerns arise.

Our safeguarding procedures are available for you to view at any time, please ask a member of staff if you wish to read them or they can be found on the nursery website www.littleswans.org.uk

We have procedures in place for allegations made against staff members in accordance with section 22 of the Birmingham Safeguarding Children Board (BSCB) procedures

We expect any one working within our organisation to ensure they carry out their duties using safe working practices and by not allowing themselves to be left in a position whereby allegations are made against them. All staff are aware of our whistle blowing procedures, and know how to make concerns known to management about other staff members. Staff also know how to make concerns known to ofsted if they are worried about any aspects of management’s behaviour.

If you as a parent /carer or visitor have genuine reason to believe that a child may have been abused by any one working for our organisation, we ask that in the first instance you bring it to the attention of a manager. If your concerns are about the management we ask that you contact Ofsted on 0300 123 1231

Please be very clear what you are alleging, as we have a statutory duty to follow procedures when an allegation has been made.

Whilst our first duty is always to safeguard children, false malicious and unfounded allegations do have a devastating effect on individuals and the organisation as a whole.

If you make a genuine allegation the following procedure will be followed:

• Please do not talk directly to the person who you are making the allegation against

• Talk to a manager in a quiet area away from staff and children.

• Please do not talk to other staff members or parents; we need to maintain the confidentiality of your child and the member of staff.

• The manager should reassure you that procedures are being followed

• We may decide to suspend the alleged perpetrator whilst a course of action is decided upon

• We will not in the first instance tell them the nature of the allegation

• We will inform ofsted

• We will inform someone from the Birmingham Safeguarding Children Board(BSCB) position of trust team

• If the concerns are such that the position of trust team deems it to be an internal disciplinary matter they may ask us to undertake our own investigation, and to follow our organisations disciplinary procedures.

• Dependent upon the nature of the concerns the police and Social care team may become involved

• Dependent upon the nature of the concerns the police may speak to you and your child

• Dependent upon the nature of the concerns your child may be subject to an examination to determine any possible injury.

• A position of trust coordination meeting may be held to discuss the concerns, and to find a way forward, in order to reach an outcome

• You will be told the outcome of any such meetings.

Your child’s well being is paramount to us please be reassured we will do everything in our power to safeguard all children within our setting by following safe working practices and by following the correct procedures if an allegation does arise about any one working or volunteering within our organisation

Little Swans Day Nursery

Intimate Care (safe care) and Toileting Policy

May 2013

Reviewed by Samantha Tranter, Nursery Manager

Aim

At Little Swans Day Nursery we aim to meet the individual needs of all our children and promote their welfare and emotional well-being. We recognise and assist children with intimate care where needed, and ensure that the children are treated with courtesy, dignity, and respect at all times.

Intimate care is defined as care involving washing, touching or carrying out a procedure to intimate personal areas which some children may need support in doing because of their young age, physical difficulties or other special needs.

Where a child has intimate care needs, a designated qualified member of staff takes responsibility to provide their care. We address issues on an individual basis.

Due to the developmental stages of the children that we work with, we support them with their personal care, for example reminding the children to go to the toilet and about personal hygiene. This supports their understanding of self-care routines as well as developing their independence.

As outlined in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS); September 2012, we are responsible for children’s personal care skills, as an essential part of Personal Development.

On some occasions, children come to our setting in nappies. We support children sensitively and with dignity in this matter. Also, from time to time some children will have accidents and need to be attended to. During registration and your child’ home visit their key person will advise you of the procedures at nursery and what your child needs to have with them each day they attend e.g. spare clothes. Staff will share information about your child’s day at nursery; including toileting and nappy changes, this is given verbally and included on daily report sheets/diaries.

Implementation

•Staff training

All staff are knowledgeable about intimate care/personal care. They are aware of their responsibilities, relevant policies and procedures in place (including adhering to Child Protection and Safeguarding, Health and Safety and Confidentiality). The designated employed adult is trained; DBS (Disclosure, Barring Scheme) checked and has received training for very specific intimate care procedures where relevant. During their induction period staff are supervised and supported when carrying out self-care, only staff members who have provided satisfactory references and have a clear DBS check can carry out such self -care routines.

Key Persons follow each child’s care plan in agreement with parent/carers and they undertake their duties in a professional manner at all times. They are fully aware of best practice including hygiene.

•Intimate care / personal care plan

If a child requires regular assistance with intimate care, staff meet with the parents to discuss the child’s needs and devise an agreed intimate / personal care plan. Relevant health personnel are involved if needed. We monitor and review the plan on a regular basis and access any further training as and when it is required.

•Practice

The designated practitioner who provides the care (in most cases: the child’s key person) forms a strong, trusting relationship with the child. They ensure that it is a positive experience that is safe and comfortable for all. Whilst the child is having their needs met, it is treated as a time to interact and promote their personal, social and emotional development.

Each child; age and developmentally appropriate is encouraged to undertake as much of the procedure for themselves as possible, including washing hands, dressing/undressing, hygiene and toileting.

The children’s toilet areas and nappy changing facilities/areas are used to attend to children’s needs and every effort is made to ensure privacy and modesty.

Most procedures are carried out by one member of staff. However, careful consideration is given to the child’s individual circumstances/needs to determine how many practitioners might need to be present when a child needs help with intimate care. If a child is unhappy or anxious about the care being provided, the issue will be addressed and discussed with parents/carers to ensure that we continually meet a child’s needs.

Each child who attends nursery has a self-Care record which is completed each day, recording nappy changes, toileting, sleep as well as food charts for under one’s. It is the responsibility of all key persons to ensure the information recorded is accurate and shared with each child’s parent/carer.

•Working with parents

We work closely with parents/carers forming partnerships to identify and ensure we meet each child’s needs, reviewing these regularly through the key person system in place at nursery. Cultural and religious values are respected when planning and we seek to engage in regular communication with parents, and monitor and review the plan together.

•Working with outside agencies

We work closely with outside agencies and utilise their knowledge and expertise where necessary. Our setting based SENCO Jennifer Owen and her assistant Emma Sloan, coordinate this approach in consultation with management as well as parent/carers and the child’s key person.

Disposal of nappies, aprons and gloves safely

At Nursery we have good hygiene practices in place when disposing waste to prevent infection.

We follow stringent nappy changing procedures which are included in all staff inductions to ensure the safe disposal of waste, see below.

Changing a nappy

•A clean disposable apron and gloves is worn every time a child is changed, after having washed their hands thoroughly.

•Whilst changing, children’s skin is cleaned with disposable wipe/creams if needed, these are provided by parent/carers.

•Nappies and ’pull ups’, gloves, aprons and wipes are disposed of hygienically and safely, they are placed in nappy bags and disposed of immediately in the internal/external bins provided by the nursery.

This policy has been written in accordance with the Disability Discrimination Act (amended 2005) and in conjunction with the nursery’s health and safety policy, Safeguarding / child protection procedures and staff inductions.

This policy will be reviewed annually or when a change in practice or legislation requires.

Policy Updated: May 2013

Signed: ……………………………………………………..

Miss Tranter, Nursery Manager