Safeguarding children policy
1. Policy Statement
Rainbow Hands respite and childcare services LTD is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children in our care. We recognise our duty of care under the Children Act 1989 & 2004, the Education Act 2002, the Working Together to Safeguard Children guidance (2018), the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), and other relevant UK legislation. We will provide a safe, secure, and nurturing environment where children are protected from harm and abuse.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all staff, assistants, volunteers, contractors, children, parents, and visitors in:
- Our home-based childcare setting
- Community settings
- Families’ homes where care is delivered
3. Aims
We aim to:
- Protect children from maltreatment.
- Prevent impairment of children’s health or development.
- Ensure children grow up in safe and effective care.
- Take action to ensure children achieve the best outcomes.
- Work in partnership with parents and external agencies to safeguard children.
4. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
The provider/childminder acts as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). They are responsible for implementing safeguarding procedures, ensuring training is up to date, and making referrals to children’s social care when required.
5. Recognising Abuse
All staff and volunteers must be aware of the four main categories of abuse:
- Physical abuse
- Emotional abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Neglect
Staff should also be alert to signs of child sexual exploitation (CSE), female genital mutilation (FGM), domestic abuse, online abuse, bullying, and radicalisation.
6. Responding to Concerns
- Any concern about a child’s welfare must be reported immediately to the DSL.
- If a child is in immediate danger, staff must call 999.
- The DSL will contact the Local Authority Children’s Services or the Local Safeguarding Children Partnership (LSCP).
- Where FGM is suspected, professionals have a mandatory duty to report this to the police.
- Records of concerns will be kept securely and shared only with those who need to know.
7. Safer Recruitment
We follow safer recruitment practices to prevent unsuitable people from working with children, including:
- Enhanced DBS checks for all adults in contact with children.
- Verification of identity, references, and employment history.
- Induction and ongoing training in safeguarding.
- Supervision and monitoring of assistants and volunteers.
8. Training
The DSL and all staff/assistants will complete safeguarding training in line with local authority requirements. Training will be updated regularly to reflect changes in legislation and guidance.
9. Whistleblowing
All staff and volunteers have a duty to report concerns about the behaviour of colleagues or practices that put children at risk. Concerns should be reported to the DSL or directly to Ofsted if necessary. Whistleblowers will be protected under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998.
10. Allegations Against Adults
- Any allegation made against a member of staff, volunteer, or household member will be taken seriously.
- The DSL will contact the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) for advice and follow procedures.
- Ofsted will be notified as required by law.
11. Monitoring and Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislation or guidance changes. All staff, volunteers, and parents will be made aware of updates.
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Last Update 25/10/25