Safeguarding Policy
Purpose and Aims
The purpose of Heavitree Community Preschool safeguarding and child protection policy is to provide a secure framework for the workforce in safeguarding and promoting the welfare of those children/young people who attend our setting. The policy aims to ensure that:
All our children are safe and protected from harm. Other elements of provision and policies are in place to enable children to feel safe and adopt safe practices. Staff, children, committee, visitors, volunteers, and parents are aware of the expected behaviours’ and the settings legal responsibilities in relation to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all of our children.
Ethos
‘Every child deserves the best possible start in life and the support that enables them to fulfil their potential. A secure, safe and happy childhood is important in its own right.’ Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
Safeguarding in Heavitree Community Preschool is considered everyone’s responsibility and our setting aims to create the safest environment within which every child has the opportunity to achieve their full potential. Heavitree Community Preschool recognises the contribution it can make in ensuring that all children who attend our setting have a trusted key worker with whom they feel safe and that they will be listened to, and appropriate action taken. We recognise that this is especially important for children who are unable to communicate such as young children or those with speech difficulties, we ensure that they have strong attachment to their key person and all practitioners within the setting. We will work to ensure children’s safety is met by working in partnership with other agencies i.e. Early Help, MASH, Police and Social care as well as seeking to establish effective working relationships with parents, carers, and other colleagues to develop and provide activities and opportunities that will help to equip our children with the skills they need. This will include materials and learning experiences that will encourage our children to develop essential life skills and protective behaviours.
This policy has been developed in accordance with the principles established by the Children Act 1989, and in line with the following:
Early years foundation stage (EYFS) statutory framework - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) Working Together to Safeguard Children What to do if you are worried a Child is being Abused Keeping Children Safe in Education The Prevent Duty 2015 advice for childcare settings Information Sharing; Advice for practitioners providing safeguarding services to children, young people, parents, and carers Safeguarding children and protecting professionals in early years settings: online safety considerations - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) Female genital mutilation - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Responsibilities and expectations
The management, committee and staff team take seriously its responsibility under section 11 of the Children Act and duties under “working together” to safeguard and promote the welfare of children; to work together with other agencies to ensure adequate arrangements exist within our setting to identify and support those children who are suffering harm or are likely to suffer significant harm. We recognise that all staff and management have a full and active part to play in protecting our children from harm, and that the child’s welfare is our paramount concern.
The Management team should also ensure the following: -
that the safeguarding and child protection policy is made available to parents and carers. that all staff and volunteers are properly checked to make sure they are safe to work with the children who attend our setting. that the setting has procedures for handling allegations of abuse made against members of staff (including the Playleader/Manager) or volunteers. the safe and appropriate use of cameras, mobile phones, technology, and online equipment within the setting. the Counter Terrorism and Security Act 2015 which places a duty on early years and childcare providers “to have due regard to the need to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism” (The Prevent Duty) is implemented, considering the Local authorities ‘Prevent’ policies, protocols and procedures and ensuring the Fundamental British Values are implemented as stated in the EYFS. a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is appointed who has lead responsibility for dealing with all safeguarding issues in our setting.
to ensure that all safeguarding issues raised in the setting are effectively responded to, recorded, and referred to the appropriate agency. To ensure all adults are alert to circumstances when a child and family may need access to early help All adults, (including volunteers) new to our setting will be made aware of this policy and the procedures for child protection, the name and contact details of the DSL and have these explained, as part of their induction into the setting. Be responsible for arranging the settings safeguarding training for all staff and volunteers who work with the children and young people. The DSL must ensure that the safeguarding training takes place at least every three years for all with regular updates during this period, which they can deliver in-house provided they are linked into the support and quality assurance process offered by the Local Authority and the Devon Children and Families Partnership. to attend or ensure that a senior member of staff who has the relevant training and access to appropriate supervision, attends where appropriate, all child protection case conferences, reviews, core groups, or meetings where it concerns a child in our care and to contribute to multi-agency strategy discussions to safeguard and promote the child’s welfare. for ensuring the acceptable, safe use and storage of all camera technology, images, and mobile phones through the implementation, monitoring and reviewing of the appropriate policies and procedures. This includes the on-line Safety Policy which includes Camera & Image Policy, Mobile Phone Policy, Acceptable Use Policy. Implementing the Fundamental British Vales. To ensure allegations regarding adults in the setting are effectively responded to and referred to the appropriate agency. All Child Protection concerns need to be acted on immediately. If you are concerned that a child may be at risk or is actually suffering abuse, you must tell the DSL.
All Adults, including the DSL, have a duty to refer all known or suspected cases of abuse to the relevant agency including MASH (Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub), Children and Young Peoples Service (CYPS) – Social Care, or the Police. Where a disclosure is made to a visiting staff member from a different agency, e.g. Early Years Consultants, Health Visitors, it is the responsibility of that agency staff to formally report the referral to the Setting’s DSL in the first instance and to follow their organisations procedures. Any records made should be kept securely on the Child’s Protection file.
Recognising concerns, signs, and indicators of abuse
Safeguarding is not just about protecting children from significant harm or likely significant harm. For our setting it includes such things as child safety, bullying, racist abuse and harassment, visits, intimate care, and internet safety etc… ‘Safeguarding children and protecting professionals in early years settings: Online Safety Considerations document (Safeguarding children and protecting professionals in early years settings: online safety considerations - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)) identify the responsibilities for our setting with regards to online safety for the children
‘You play an essential role in helping young children learn the foundations of safe online behaviour. Even if children don’t have access to technology within your setting, they may be using it at home, with their friends or in other public spaces. Children are naturally curious in understanding the world we live in; it is our responsibility to enable them to do so, including helping them to recognise the value of technology and use it safely. Role modelling safe use of the internet should become part of our everyday practice’. (2019)
It is not the technology itself that will present the greatest risk, but the behaviours of individuals using such equipment. The witnessing of abuse can have a damaging effect on those who are party to it, as well as the child/adult subjected to the actual abuse, and in itself will have a significant impact on the health and emotional well-being of the child.
The four main categories of abuse as defined by the Department of Health ‘Working Together to Safeguard Children’ document 2018. Adults should be aware that the possible indicators are not definitive list although children’s poor behaviour maybe a sign that they are suffering harm or that they have been traumatised by abuse, some children may present these behaviours for reasons other than abuse. All staff, volunteers at Heavitree Community Preschool are aware of the indicators of abuse and have up to date knowledge of safeguarding issues. They will be alert to the need to consult further if they suspect neglect or abuse of a child or children. As a setting we understand that children may be abused in a family or in an institutional or community setting by those known to them or, more rarely, by others.
Neglect The persistent failure to meet a child’s basic physical and psychological needs, likely to result in the serious impairments of the child’s health or development. Neglect may occur during pregnancy as a result of maternal substance abuse. Once a child is born, neglect may involve a parent or carer failing to:
provide food, clothing, and shelter, protect a child from physical and emotional harm or danger, ensure adequate supervision, ensure access to appropriate medical care or treatment.
Possible indicators of Neglect Obvious signs of lack of care including:
Problems with personal hygiene, constant hunger, inadequate clothing, emaciation, lateness or non-attendance at the setting, poor relationship with peers, untreated medical problems, compulsive stealing and scavenging, rocking, hair twisting, thumb sucking, running away, low self-esteem. Etc.
Physical Abuse
May involve hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning, or scalding, drowning, suffocating, or otherwise causing physical harm to a child. Physical harm may also be caused when a parent or carer fabricates the symptoms of, or deliberately induces illness in a child.
Possible Indicators of physical abuse Physical signs that do not tally with the given account of occurrence conflicting or unrealistic explanations of cause repeated injuries delay in reporting or seeking medical advice.
Sexual Abuse
Forcing or enticing a child to take part in sexual activities, not necessarily involving a high level of violence, whether or not the child is aware of what is happening. The activities may involve physical contact, penetrative or non-penetrative acts and also includes involving children in watching pornographic material or watching sexual acts.
Possible indicators of Sexual Abuse Sudden changes in behaviour, displays of affection which are sexual and age inappropriate, tendency to cling or need constant reassurance,
Tendency to cry easily, regression to younger behaviour – e.g. thumb sucking, acting like a baby, unexplained gifts or money, depression and withdrawal, wetting/soiling day or night, fear of undressing for PE etc.
Emotional Abuse
The persistent emotional maltreatment of a child such as to cause severe and persistent adverse effects on the child’s emotional development. It may involve conveying to children that they are worthless or unloved, inadequate, or valued only insofar as they meet the needs of another person.
Possible Indicators of Emotional Abuse Rejection, isolation, child being blamed for actions of adults, child being used as carer for younger siblings, affection, and basic emotional care giving/warmth, persistently absent or withheld.
Children who have special educational needs and/or disabilities
All children have the right to be safe, yet research shows that disabled children are three times more likely to be abused. A number of factors have been identified as to reasons why these children are more at risk (see bullet points) and as a setting we are aware of these and endeavour to protect all our children.
a general reluctance of people to believe that disabled children are abused limited opportunities to seek help from someone else a skills gap between disability and child protection workers inadequate teaching about personal safety skills e.g. NSPCC pants campaign issues relating to the child’s specific disability or special educational need, e.g. difficulties in communicating or an inability to understand what is happening
Prevent
The Counter Terrorism & Security Act 2015
The Act places a Prevent duty on settings to have “due regard to the need to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism”.
Settings subject to the Prevent Duty will be expected to demonstrate activity in the following areas
Assessing the risk of children being drawn into terrorism Demonstrate that they are protecting children and young people from being drawn into terrorism by having robust safeguarding policies. Ensure that their safeguarding arrangements consider the policies and procedures of the Devon Children and Families Partnership. Make sure that staff have training that gives them the knowledge and confidence to identify children and families at risk of being drawn into terrorism, and to challenge extremist ideas which can be used to legitimise terrorism Expected to ensure children are safe from terrorist and extremist material when accessing the internet in the setting
What to do if you are concerned
If a child makes a disclosure or allegation of abuse against an adult or other child or young person, it is important that you:
Stay calm and listen carefully. Reassure them that they have done the right thing in telling you. Do not investigate or ask leading questions instead ask clarifying questions tell me, explain to me, describe to me (TED) Let them know that you will need to tell someone else (If appropriate). Do not promise to keep what they have told you a secret. Inform your Safeguarding Designated Lead as soon as possible. Make a written record of the allegation, disclosure, or incident which you must sign, date, and record your position using the setting safeguarding record log forms. If you are concerned that a member of staff or adult in a position of trust poses a danger to a child or young person or that they might be abusing a child or young person you should report your concerns to the DSL. Where those concerns relate to the DSL however, this should be reported to the Manager or Committee Chair using the settings ‘Whistle blowing’ policy.
Whistleblowing
We recognise that children cannot be expected to raise concerns in an environment where staff fail to do so. All staff should be aware of their duty to raise concerns about the attitude or actions of colleagues via our whistleblowing and complaints policies and appropriate advice will be sought from the LADO or Safeguarding Team where necessary.
Managing Allegations
We are aware of the possibility of allegations being made against members of staff or volunteers that are working or may come into contact with children and young people whilst in our setting. An allegation is when it appears that the professional, staff member, volunteer, has:
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 in an inappropriate way towards a child which may indicate that he or she is unsuitable to work with children if there are concerns about the person’s behaviour towards their own children children unrelated to their employment or voluntary work, and there has been a recommendation from a strategy discussion that consideration should be given to the risk posed to children they work with an allegation has been made about abuse that took place some time ago and the accused person may still be working with or having contact with children
We are aware of the possibility of allegations being made against members of staff or volunteers that are working or may come into contact with children and young people whilst in our setting. Allegations may include - inappropriate behaviour displayed, inappropriate sexual comments, excessive one to one attention beyond the requirements their role and responsibilities, inappropriate sharing, or images. Allegations are made for a variety of reasons:
Abuse has actually taken place. Something has happened to the child that reminds them of a past event – the child is unable to recognize that the situation and people are different; Children can misinterpret your language or your actions. Some children recognise that allegations can be powerful and if they are angry with you about something, they can make an allegation as a way of hitting out. An allegation can be a way of seeking attention.
If an allegation is made against an adult in a position of trust whether they be members of staff or volunteers this should be brought to the immediate attention of the DSL who will advise the Manager or Chair of the Committee. In the case of the allegation being made against the DSL this will be brought to the immediate attention of the Manager or Chair of the Committee. The DSL, Manager or Chair of the Committee will need to discuss with the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) the nature of the allegations made against the adult, in order for the appropriate action to be taken. This may constitute an initial evaluation meeting or strategy discussion depending on the allegation being made. All allegations must be taken seriously and objectively and dealt with in a timely manner, in the case of an allegation the DSL, Manager or Committee Chair will need to:
Refer to the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) guidance Managing allegations - Devon Children’s' and Families Partnership (dcfp.org.uk) and submit the LADO notification form. Consider safeguarding arrangements of the child or young person to ensure they are away from the alleged abuser. Contact the parents or carers of the child/young person if advised to do so by the LADO. Consider the rights of the staff member for a fair and equal process of investigation. Advise Ofsted of allegation within 14 days of the allegation Ensure that the appropriate disciplinary procedures are followed including whether suspending a member of staff from work until the outcome of any investigation if this is deemed necessary. Act on any decision made in any strategy meeting. Advise the Disclosure and Barring Service where a member of staff has been removed, dismissed or would have been removed had they a result of the allegations being founded. A copy of What to do if you are worried a Child is being Abused booklet is kept with the safeguarding documentation on the bookcase in the office. This sets out the guidelines on dealing with incidents, disclosures and the procedures that must be followed.
Confidentiality
We recognise that all matters relating to child protection are confidential. The DSL will disclose personal information about a child or young person to other members of staff on a need-to-know basis only. However, all staff must be aware that they have a professional responsibility to share information with other agencies in order to safeguard children. All staff must be aware that they cannot promise a child to keep secrets which might compromise the child’s safety or well-being or that of another. We will always undertake to share our concerns with parents and guardians and their consent is sought in accordance with Early help and MASH procedures unless doing so would increase the risk of harm to the child. If in doubt regarding sharing information with parents and guardians, we will consult with the MASH consultation team.
Training
All members of staff and volunteers will have access to safeguarding training at least every three years in line with Devon Children and Families Partnership (DCFP). We will also, as
part of our induction, issue information in relation to our Safeguarding policy as well as any policies related to safeguarding and promoting our children/young people’s welfare to all newly appointed staff and volunteers. There will also regular safeguarding updates in our morning, huddles, staff meeting, emails, and inset days.
Our DSL’s will undertake further safeguarding training, Group 3 DCFP Multi-agency Safeguarding course or Group 3 Refresher Courses. This will be undertaken at least every three years which updates their awareness and understanding of the impact of the wide agenda of safeguarding issues. This will support both the DSL and deputy DSL to be able to better undertake their role and support the setting in ensuring our safeguarding arrangements are robust and achieving better outcomes for the children in our setting.
Our committee will have access to safeguarding training and our Named Committee member for Safeguarding will also undertake additional awareness training at least every three years. They will also be advised to undertake additional training to support their employers’ role in Handling Allegations against adults who work with children and young people, including our staff and volunteers.
Our safeguarding arrangements are reported on an annual basis to our Committee and our Safeguarding policy is reviewed annually, in order to keep it updated in line with local and national guidance/legislation.
We will include our Safeguarding Policy on our website and have copies readily available to view within our setting. We are also able to arrange for our policy to be made available to parents whose first language is not English, on request.
Mobile Phones and Mobile technology
Heavitree Community Preschool has policies and procedures in place with regard to the use of mobile phones and mobile technology i.e. ipads’, smart watches, laptops, cameras in the setting and on visits etc.
Smart Watches can be worn but only if they do not have a camera enabled.
Only the preschool Camera and ipads can be used within the setting and must be locked away confidentially.
Mobile phones (other than the setting mobile) are not prohibited in the playroom at any time when the setting is open. If staff need to take a call, they must do so in a space away from the children such as the office or in the store cupboard away from the children.
All volunteers and visitors and made aware that they are unable to use their mobile phone within the setting. Other professionals are asked to leave their mobile phones either in the office or the store cupboard.
If we are holding a performance, parents will me made aware if they are able to take photos on their cameras or phones, depending on our cohort of children and permissions.
Related Setting Policies
‘Safeguarding covers more than the contribution made to child protection in relation to individual children. It also encompasses issues such as child health and safety, bullying and a range of other issues, for example, arrangements for meeting the medical needs of children, providing first aid, setting security, drugs, and substance misuse, etc.
This policy will cross reference to related setting policies and other protocol, this list is not exhaustive:
Behaviour Management Policy
Bullying Policy
Children’s Records Policy
Children’s Rights and Entitlements Policy
Confidentiality Policy
Health and Safety Policy
Information Sharing Policy
Late and uncollected Children Policy
Equality and Diversity Policy
Maintaining Children’s Safety on Premises Policy
Missing Child Policy
Nappy Changing /Intimate Care Policy
Online and ICT Policy
Outings and Visits Policy
Record Keeping Policy
Recruitment and Selection Policy
Registration Policy
Visitors Policy
Recruitment and Retention Policy
Whistleblowing Policy
This policy was adapted from Devon Early Years and Childcare Services Model Safeguarding Policy September 2021.
Approved Georgina Maddocks Operations Manager
Policy is reviewed Annualy
Heavitree Community Safeguarding Policy
Useful Contacts:
Devon Children and Families Partnerships
South West Child Protection Procedures
Devon Early Years and Childcare Service
Child Exploitation and Online Protection Agency
NSPCC
CHILDWISE - a leading specialist in research with children and young people - ABOUT
Multi-agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) 0345 155 1071
email: mashsecure@devon.gov.uk
MASH Consultation Line 0345 155 1071 (ask for Consultation Line)
Early Help co-ordination centre 0345 155 1071 (ask for Early Help)
Early Help information
Out of hours for CYPS (Social Care):
5pm -9am and at weekends and public holidays, please contact:
Emergency Duty Service 0845 6000 388 (low-rate call)
Police Central Referral Unit: 0845 605 116
EYCS Consultation Service:
If you have concerns about a child but are unsure whether to make a MASH enquiry. The numbers are:
Nikki Phillips – Locality Manager for Exeter and East Devon 01392 383000
Melissa Filby – Locality Manager for Northern and Mid Devon 01392 383000
Susan Bolt - Locality Manager for South West Devon 01392 383000
DCFP
DCFP Office: 01392 383000
Child Protection Chairs and Local Authority Designated Officers for managing allegations against staff:
Allegations against staff LADO Referral Co-ordinator 01392 384964
Training and Resources on managing allegations
Devon’s Domestic Abuse Helpline 0345 155 1074
Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub – MASH
MASH contributes to improved outcomes for safeguarding children because it has the ability to swiftly collate and share information held by the various agencies and to provide a multi-agency risk assessment of each case for ‘actual or likely harm’.
Manages contacts and enquiries received from any source (usually CYPS and Police VIST vulnerable incident screening tool) Develops a document recording the concern information and all other agencies information available within agreed timescales and a social worker manager makes an informed decision using all of the available information. Develops concern information into a social care referral if services are required under section 17 or section 47 of The Children Act 1989 Liaises with the Early Help for children and young people who need services but do not meet The Children Act 1989 threshold Provides consultation line to agency enquirers about thresholds, appropriate action to be undertaken and services.
Annexe 2 Current Safeguarding Issues
The following Safeguarding issues are all considered to be child Protection issues and should be referred immediately to the most relevant agency. The issues featured below are linked to guidance and local procedures which can be found on the South West Child Protection Procedures
E-Safety Children and young people can be exploited and suffer bullying through their use of modern technology such as the internet, mobile phones, and social networking sites. In order to minimise the risks to our children and young people Heavitree Community Preschool will ensure that we have in place appropriate measures such as security filtering, and an acceptable use policy linked to our online policy. We will ensure that staff are aware of how not to compromise their position of trust in or outside of the setting and are aware of the dangers associated with social networking sites.
Our E-safety policy will clearly state that mobile phone, camera or electronic communications with a child or family at our setting is not acceptable other than for approved setting business. Where it is suspected that a child is at risk from internet abuse or cyber bullying, we will report our concerns to the appropriate agency.
Child sexual exploitation (CSE) The sexual exploitation of children and young people under 18 involves exploitative situations, contexts, and relationships where young people, (or a third person or persons) receive something, (e.g. food, accommodation, drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, affections, gifts, money) as a result of them performing and/or others performing on them, sexual activities. Child sexual exploitation can 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. In all cases those exploiting the child/young person have power over them by virtue of their age, gender, intellect, physical strength and/or economic or other resources. Violence, coercion, and intimidations are common, involvement in exploitative relationships being characterised in the main by the child’s or young person’s limited availability of choice, resulting from their social/economic and/or emotional vulnerability.
Good practice – Individuals Recognise the symptoms and distinguish them from other forms of abuse
Treat the child/young person as a victim of abuse Understand the perspective / behaviour of the child/young person and be patient with them Help the child/young person to recognise that they are being exploited Collate as much information as possible Share information with other agencies and seek advice / refer to Social Care
Good practice – Organisations
Ensure robust safeguarding policies and procedures are in place which cover CSE Promote and engage in effective multi-agency working to prevent abuse Work to help victims move out of exploitation Cooperate to enable successful investigations and prosecutions of perpetrators
Peer on Peer Abuse
The purpose of Heavitree Community Preschool safeguarding and child protection policy is to provide a secure framework for the workforce in safeguarding and promoting the welfare of those children/young people who attend our setting. The policy aims to ensure that:
All our children are safe and protected from harm. Other elements of provision and policies are in place to enable children to feel safe and adopt safe practices. Staff, children, committee, visitors, volunteers, and parents are aware of the expected behaviours’ and the settings legal responsibilities in relation to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all of our children.
Ethos
‘Every child deserves the best possible start in life and the support that enables them to fulfil their potential. A secure, safe and happy childhood is important in its own right.’ Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
Safeguarding in Heavitree Community Preschool is considered everyone’s responsibility and our setting aims to create the safest environment within which every child has the opportunity to achieve their full potential. Heavitree Community Preschool recognises the contribution it can make in ensuring that all children who attend our setting have a trusted key worker with whom they feel safe and that they will be listened to, and appropriate action taken. We recognise that this is especially important for children who are unable to communicate such as young children or those with speech difficulties, we ensure that they have strong attachment to their key person and all practitioners within the setting. We will work to ensure children’s safety is met by working in partnership with other agencies i.e. Early Help, MASH, Police and Social care as well as seeking to establish effective working relationships with parents, carers, and other colleagues to develop and provide activities and opportunities that will help to equip our children with the skills they need. This will include materials and learning experiences that will encourage our children to develop essential life skills and protective behaviours.
This policy has been developed in accordance with the principles established by the Children Act 1989, and in line with the following:
Early years foundation stage (EYFS) statutory framework - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) Working Together to Safeguard Children What to do if you are worried a Child is being Abused Keeping Children Safe in Education The Prevent Duty 2015 advice for childcare settings Information Sharing; Advice for practitioners providing safeguarding services to children, young people, parents, and carers Safeguarding children and protecting professionals in early years settings: online safety considerations - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) Female genital mutilation - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Responsibilities and expectations
The management, committee and staff team take seriously its responsibility under section 11 of the Children Act and duties under “working together” to safeguard and promote the welfare of children; to work together with other agencies to ensure adequate arrangements exist within our setting to identify and support those children who are suffering harm or are likely to suffer significant harm. We recognise that all staff and management have a full and active part to play in protecting our children from harm, and that the child’s welfare is our paramount concern.
The Management team should also ensure the following: -
that the safeguarding and child protection policy is made available to parents and carers. that all staff and volunteers are properly checked to make sure they are safe to work with the children who attend our setting. that the setting has procedures for handling allegations of abuse made against members of staff (including the Playleader/Manager) or volunteers. the safe and appropriate use of cameras, mobile phones, technology, and online equipment within the setting. the Counter Terrorism and Security Act 2015 which places a duty on early years and childcare providers “to have due regard to the need to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism” (The Prevent Duty) is implemented, considering the Local authorities ‘Prevent’ policies, protocols and procedures and ensuring the Fundamental British Values are implemented as stated in the EYFS. a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is appointed who has lead responsibility for dealing with all safeguarding issues in our setting.
- The Designated Safeguarding Lead is Samantha Bastin. If they are not available, then contact
- The Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead Charlotte Callaway/Georgina Maddocks. (They can also be contacted with any safeguarding concerns).
- Safeguarding Committee Named Person is Sarah Pressey.
to ensure that all safeguarding issues raised in the setting are effectively responded to, recorded, and referred to the appropriate agency. To ensure all adults are alert to circumstances when a child and family may need access to early help All adults, (including volunteers) new to our setting will be made aware of this policy and the procedures for child protection, the name and contact details of the DSL and have these explained, as part of their induction into the setting. Be responsible for arranging the settings safeguarding training for all staff and volunteers who work with the children and young people. The DSL must ensure that the safeguarding training takes place at least every three years for all with regular updates during this period, which they can deliver in-house provided they are linked into the support and quality assurance process offered by the Local Authority and the Devon Children and Families Partnership. to attend or ensure that a senior member of staff who has the relevant training and access to appropriate supervision, attends where appropriate, all child protection case conferences, reviews, core groups, or meetings where it concerns a child in our care and to contribute to multi-agency strategy discussions to safeguard and promote the child’s welfare. for ensuring the acceptable, safe use and storage of all camera technology, images, and mobile phones through the implementation, monitoring and reviewing of the appropriate policies and procedures. This includes the on-line Safety Policy which includes Camera & Image Policy, Mobile Phone Policy, Acceptable Use Policy. Implementing the Fundamental British Vales. To ensure allegations regarding adults in the setting are effectively responded to and referred to the appropriate agency. All Child Protection concerns need to be acted on immediately. If you are concerned that a child may be at risk or is actually suffering abuse, you must tell the DSL.
All Adults, including the DSL, have a duty to refer all known or suspected cases of abuse to the relevant agency including MASH (Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub), Children and Young Peoples Service (CYPS) – Social Care, or the Police. Where a disclosure is made to a visiting staff member from a different agency, e.g. Early Years Consultants, Health Visitors, it is the responsibility of that agency staff to formally report the referral to the Setting’s DSL in the first instance and to follow their organisations procedures. Any records made should be kept securely on the Child’s Protection file.
Recognising concerns, signs, and indicators of abuse
Safeguarding is not just about protecting children from significant harm or likely significant harm. For our setting it includes such things as child safety, bullying, racist abuse and harassment, visits, intimate care, and internet safety etc… ‘Safeguarding children and protecting professionals in early years settings: Online Safety Considerations document (Safeguarding children and protecting professionals in early years settings: online safety considerations - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)) identify the responsibilities for our setting with regards to online safety for the children
‘You play an essential role in helping young children learn the foundations of safe online behaviour. Even if children don’t have access to technology within your setting, they may be using it at home, with their friends or in other public spaces. Children are naturally curious in understanding the world we live in; it is our responsibility to enable them to do so, including helping them to recognise the value of technology and use it safely. Role modelling safe use of the internet should become part of our everyday practice’. (2019)
It is not the technology itself that will present the greatest risk, but the behaviours of individuals using such equipment. The witnessing of abuse can have a damaging effect on those who are party to it, as well as the child/adult subjected to the actual abuse, and in itself will have a significant impact on the health and emotional well-being of the child.
The four main categories of abuse as defined by the Department of Health ‘Working Together to Safeguard Children’ document 2018. Adults should be aware that the possible indicators are not definitive list although children’s poor behaviour maybe a sign that they are suffering harm or that they have been traumatised by abuse, some children may present these behaviours for reasons other than abuse. All staff, volunteers at Heavitree Community Preschool are aware of the indicators of abuse and have up to date knowledge of safeguarding issues. They will be alert to the need to consult further if they suspect neglect or abuse of a child or children. As a setting we understand that children may be abused in a family or in an institutional or community setting by those known to them or, more rarely, by others.
Neglect The persistent failure to meet a child’s basic physical and psychological needs, likely to result in the serious impairments of the child’s health or development. Neglect may occur during pregnancy as a result of maternal substance abuse. Once a child is born, neglect may involve a parent or carer failing to:
provide food, clothing, and shelter, protect a child from physical and emotional harm or danger, ensure adequate supervision, ensure access to appropriate medical care or treatment.
Possible indicators of Neglect Obvious signs of lack of care including:
Problems with personal hygiene, constant hunger, inadequate clothing, emaciation, lateness or non-attendance at the setting, poor relationship with peers, untreated medical problems, compulsive stealing and scavenging, rocking, hair twisting, thumb sucking, running away, low self-esteem. Etc.
Physical Abuse
May involve hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning, or scalding, drowning, suffocating, or otherwise causing physical harm to a child. Physical harm may also be caused when a parent or carer fabricates the symptoms of, or deliberately induces illness in a child.
Possible Indicators of physical abuse Physical signs that do not tally with the given account of occurrence conflicting or unrealistic explanations of cause repeated injuries delay in reporting or seeking medical advice.
Sexual Abuse
Forcing or enticing a child to take part in sexual activities, not necessarily involving a high level of violence, whether or not the child is aware of what is happening. The activities may involve physical contact, penetrative or non-penetrative acts and also includes involving children in watching pornographic material or watching sexual acts.
Possible indicators of Sexual Abuse Sudden changes in behaviour, displays of affection which are sexual and age inappropriate, tendency to cling or need constant reassurance,
Tendency to cry easily, regression to younger behaviour – e.g. thumb sucking, acting like a baby, unexplained gifts or money, depression and withdrawal, wetting/soiling day or night, fear of undressing for PE etc.
Emotional Abuse
The persistent emotional maltreatment of a child such as to cause severe and persistent adverse effects on the child’s emotional development. It may involve conveying to children that they are worthless or unloved, inadequate, or valued only insofar as they meet the needs of another person.
Possible Indicators of Emotional Abuse Rejection, isolation, child being blamed for actions of adults, child being used as carer for younger siblings, affection, and basic emotional care giving/warmth, persistently absent or withheld.
Children who have special educational needs and/or disabilities
All children have the right to be safe, yet research shows that disabled children are three times more likely to be abused. A number of factors have been identified as to reasons why these children are more at risk (see bullet points) and as a setting we are aware of these and endeavour to protect all our children.
a general reluctance of people to believe that disabled children are abused limited opportunities to seek help from someone else a skills gap between disability and child protection workers inadequate teaching about personal safety skills e.g. NSPCC pants campaign issues relating to the child’s specific disability or special educational need, e.g. difficulties in communicating or an inability to understand what is happening
Prevent
The Counter Terrorism & Security Act 2015
The Act places a Prevent duty on settings to have “due regard to the need to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism”.
Settings subject to the Prevent Duty will be expected to demonstrate activity in the following areas
Assessing the risk of children being drawn into terrorism Demonstrate that they are protecting children and young people from being drawn into terrorism by having robust safeguarding policies. Ensure that their safeguarding arrangements consider the policies and procedures of the Devon Children and Families Partnership. Make sure that staff have training that gives them the knowledge and confidence to identify children and families at risk of being drawn into terrorism, and to challenge extremist ideas which can be used to legitimise terrorism Expected to ensure children are safe from terrorist and extremist material when accessing the internet in the setting
What to do if you are concerned
If a child makes a disclosure or allegation of abuse against an adult or other child or young person, it is important that you:
Stay calm and listen carefully. Reassure them that they have done the right thing in telling you. Do not investigate or ask leading questions instead ask clarifying questions tell me, explain to me, describe to me (TED) Let them know that you will need to tell someone else (If appropriate). Do not promise to keep what they have told you a secret. Inform your Safeguarding Designated Lead as soon as possible. Make a written record of the allegation, disclosure, or incident which you must sign, date, and record your position using the setting safeguarding record log forms. If you are concerned that a member of staff or adult in a position of trust poses a danger to a child or young person or that they might be abusing a child or young person you should report your concerns to the DSL. Where those concerns relate to the DSL however, this should be reported to the Manager or Committee Chair using the settings ‘Whistle blowing’ policy.
Whistleblowing
We recognise that children cannot be expected to raise concerns in an environment where staff fail to do so. All staff should be aware of their duty to raise concerns about the attitude or actions of colleagues via our whistleblowing and complaints policies and appropriate advice will be sought from the LADO or Safeguarding Team where necessary.
Managing Allegations
We are aware of the possibility of allegations being made against members of staff or volunteers that are working or may come into contact with children and young people whilst in our setting. An allegation is when it appears that the professional, staff member, volunteer, has:
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 in an inappropriate way towards a child which may indicate that he or she is unsuitable to work with children if there are concerns about the person’s behaviour towards their own children children unrelated to their employment or voluntary work, and there has been a recommendation from a strategy discussion that consideration should be given to the risk posed to children they work with an allegation has been made about abuse that took place some time ago and the accused person may still be working with or having contact with children
We are aware of the possibility of allegations being made against members of staff or volunteers that are working or may come into contact with children and young people whilst in our setting. Allegations may include - inappropriate behaviour displayed, inappropriate sexual comments, excessive one to one attention beyond the requirements their role and responsibilities, inappropriate sharing, or images. Allegations are made for a variety of reasons:
Abuse has actually taken place. Something has happened to the child that reminds them of a past event – the child is unable to recognize that the situation and people are different; Children can misinterpret your language or your actions. Some children recognise that allegations can be powerful and if they are angry with you about something, they can make an allegation as a way of hitting out. An allegation can be a way of seeking attention.
If an allegation is made against an adult in a position of trust whether they be members of staff or volunteers this should be brought to the immediate attention of the DSL who will advise the Manager or Chair of the Committee. In the case of the allegation being made against the DSL this will be brought to the immediate attention of the Manager or Chair of the Committee. The DSL, Manager or Chair of the Committee will need to discuss with the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) the nature of the allegations made against the adult, in order for the appropriate action to be taken. This may constitute an initial evaluation meeting or strategy discussion depending on the allegation being made. All allegations must be taken seriously and objectively and dealt with in a timely manner, in the case of an allegation the DSL, Manager or Committee Chair will need to:
Refer to the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) guidance Managing allegations - Devon Children’s' and Families Partnership (dcfp.org.uk) and submit the LADO notification form. Consider safeguarding arrangements of the child or young person to ensure they are away from the alleged abuser. Contact the parents or carers of the child/young person if advised to do so by the LADO. Consider the rights of the staff member for a fair and equal process of investigation. Advise Ofsted of allegation within 14 days of the allegation Ensure that the appropriate disciplinary procedures are followed including whether suspending a member of staff from work until the outcome of any investigation if this is deemed necessary. Act on any decision made in any strategy meeting. Advise the Disclosure and Barring Service where a member of staff has been removed, dismissed or would have been removed had they a result of the allegations being founded. A copy of What to do if you are worried a Child is being Abused booklet is kept with the safeguarding documentation on the bookcase in the office. This sets out the guidelines on dealing with incidents, disclosures and the procedures that must be followed.
Confidentiality
We recognise that all matters relating to child protection are confidential. The DSL will disclose personal information about a child or young person to other members of staff on a need-to-know basis only. However, all staff must be aware that they have a professional responsibility to share information with other agencies in order to safeguard children. All staff must be aware that they cannot promise a child to keep secrets which might compromise the child’s safety or well-being or that of another. We will always undertake to share our concerns with parents and guardians and their consent is sought in accordance with Early help and MASH procedures unless doing so would increase the risk of harm to the child. If in doubt regarding sharing information with parents and guardians, we will consult with the MASH consultation team.
Training
All members of staff and volunteers will have access to safeguarding training at least every three years in line with Devon Children and Families Partnership (DCFP). We will also, as
part of our induction, issue information in relation to our Safeguarding policy as well as any policies related to safeguarding and promoting our children/young people’s welfare to all newly appointed staff and volunteers. There will also regular safeguarding updates in our morning, huddles, staff meeting, emails, and inset days.
Our DSL’s will undertake further safeguarding training, Group 3 DCFP Multi-agency Safeguarding course or Group 3 Refresher Courses. This will be undertaken at least every three years which updates their awareness and understanding of the impact of the wide agenda of safeguarding issues. This will support both the DSL and deputy DSL to be able to better undertake their role and support the setting in ensuring our safeguarding arrangements are robust and achieving better outcomes for the children in our setting.
Our committee will have access to safeguarding training and our Named Committee member for Safeguarding will also undertake additional awareness training at least every three years. They will also be advised to undertake additional training to support their employers’ role in Handling Allegations against adults who work with children and young people, including our staff and volunteers.
Our safeguarding arrangements are reported on an annual basis to our Committee and our Safeguarding policy is reviewed annually, in order to keep it updated in line with local and national guidance/legislation.
We will include our Safeguarding Policy on our website and have copies readily available to view within our setting. We are also able to arrange for our policy to be made available to parents whose first language is not English, on request.
Mobile Phones and Mobile technology
Heavitree Community Preschool has policies and procedures in place with regard to the use of mobile phones and mobile technology i.e. ipads’, smart watches, laptops, cameras in the setting and on visits etc.
Smart Watches can be worn but only if they do not have a camera enabled.
Only the preschool Camera and ipads can be used within the setting and must be locked away confidentially.
Mobile phones (other than the setting mobile) are not prohibited in the playroom at any time when the setting is open. If staff need to take a call, they must do so in a space away from the children such as the office or in the store cupboard away from the children.
All volunteers and visitors and made aware that they are unable to use their mobile phone within the setting. Other professionals are asked to leave their mobile phones either in the office or the store cupboard.
If we are holding a performance, parents will me made aware if they are able to take photos on their cameras or phones, depending on our cohort of children and permissions.
Related Setting Policies
‘Safeguarding covers more than the contribution made to child protection in relation to individual children. It also encompasses issues such as child health and safety, bullying and a range of other issues, for example, arrangements for meeting the medical needs of children, providing first aid, setting security, drugs, and substance misuse, etc.
This policy will cross reference to related setting policies and other protocol, this list is not exhaustive:
Behaviour Management Policy
Bullying Policy
Children’s Records Policy
Children’s Rights and Entitlements Policy
Confidentiality Policy
Health and Safety Policy
Information Sharing Policy
Late and uncollected Children Policy
Equality and Diversity Policy
Maintaining Children’s Safety on Premises Policy
Missing Child Policy
Nappy Changing /Intimate Care Policy
Online and ICT Policy
Outings and Visits Policy
Record Keeping Policy
Recruitment and Selection Policy
Registration Policy
Visitors Policy
Recruitment and Retention Policy
Whistleblowing Policy
This policy was adapted from Devon Early Years and Childcare Services Model Safeguarding Policy September 2021.
Approved Georgina Maddocks Operations Manager
Policy is reviewed Annualy
Heavitree Community Safeguarding Policy
Useful Contacts:
Devon Children and Families Partnerships
South West Child Protection Procedures
Devon Early Years and Childcare Service
Child Exploitation and Online Protection Agency
NSPCC
CHILDWISE - a leading specialist in research with children and young people - ABOUT
Multi-agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) 0345 155 1071
email: mashsecure@devon.gov.uk
MASH Consultation Line 0345 155 1071 (ask for Consultation Line)
Early Help co-ordination centre 0345 155 1071 (ask for Early Help)
Early Help information
Out of hours for CYPS (Social Care):
5pm -9am and at weekends and public holidays, please contact:
Emergency Duty Service 0845 6000 388 (low-rate call)
Police Central Referral Unit: 0845 605 116
EYCS Consultation Service:
If you have concerns about a child but are unsure whether to make a MASH enquiry. The numbers are:
Nikki Phillips – Locality Manager for Exeter and East Devon 01392 383000
Melissa Filby – Locality Manager for Northern and Mid Devon 01392 383000
Susan Bolt - Locality Manager for South West Devon 01392 383000
DCFP
DCFP Office: 01392 383000
Child Protection Chairs and Local Authority Designated Officers for managing allegations against staff:
Allegations against staff LADO Referral Co-ordinator 01392 384964
Training and Resources on managing allegations
Devon’s Domestic Abuse Helpline 0345 155 1074
Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub – MASH
MASH contributes to improved outcomes for safeguarding children because it has the ability to swiftly collate and share information held by the various agencies and to provide a multi-agency risk assessment of each case for ‘actual or likely harm’.
Manages contacts and enquiries received from any source (usually CYPS and Police VIST vulnerable incident screening tool) Develops a document recording the concern information and all other agencies information available within agreed timescales and a social worker manager makes an informed decision using all of the available information. Develops concern information into a social care referral if services are required under section 17 or section 47 of The Children Act 1989 Liaises with the Early Help for children and young people who need services but do not meet The Children Act 1989 threshold Provides consultation line to agency enquirers about thresholds, appropriate action to be undertaken and services.
Annexe 2 Current Safeguarding Issues
The following Safeguarding issues are all considered to be child Protection issues and should be referred immediately to the most relevant agency. The issues featured below are linked to guidance and local procedures which can be found on the South West Child Protection Procedures
E-Safety Children and young people can be exploited and suffer bullying through their use of modern technology such as the internet, mobile phones, and social networking sites. In order to minimise the risks to our children and young people Heavitree Community Preschool will ensure that we have in place appropriate measures such as security filtering, and an acceptable use policy linked to our online policy. We will ensure that staff are aware of how not to compromise their position of trust in or outside of the setting and are aware of the dangers associated with social networking sites.
Our E-safety policy will clearly state that mobile phone, camera or electronic communications with a child or family at our setting is not acceptable other than for approved setting business. Where it is suspected that a child is at risk from internet abuse or cyber bullying, we will report our concerns to the appropriate agency.
Child sexual exploitation (CSE) The sexual exploitation of children and young people under 18 involves exploitative situations, contexts, and relationships where young people, (or a third person or persons) receive something, (e.g. food, accommodation, drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, affections, gifts, money) as a result of them performing and/or others performing on them, sexual activities. Child sexual exploitation can 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. In all cases those exploiting the child/young person have power over them by virtue of their age, gender, intellect, physical strength and/or economic or other resources. Violence, coercion, and intimidations are common, involvement in exploitative relationships being characterised in the main by the child’s or young person’s limited availability of choice, resulting from their social/economic and/or emotional vulnerability.
Good practice – Individuals Recognise the symptoms and distinguish them from other forms of abuse
Treat the child/young person as a victim of abuse Understand the perspective / behaviour of the child/young person and be patient with them Help the child/young person to recognise that they are being exploited Collate as much information as possible Share information with other agencies and seek advice / refer to Social Care
Good practice – Organisations
Ensure robust safeguarding policies and procedures are in place which cover CSE Promote and engage in effective multi-agency working to prevent abuse Work to help victims move out of exploitation Cooperate to enable successful investigations and prosecutions of perpetrators
Peer on Peer Abuse
- Children can abuse other children, and this is referred to as ‘peer on peer abuse’ this can take many forms including those listed in the table above as well as bullying, sexual violence, and harassment etc. Staff will raise concerns when there are issues of peer-on-peer abuse and DSL’s will consider what support might be needed for both the victim and perpetrators.
Forced marriages (FM) FM is now a specific offence under s121 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 that came into force on 16 June 2014.
A FM is a marriage conducted without the valid consent of one or both parties, and where duress is a factor Forced marriage is when someone faces physical pressure to marry (e.g. threats, physical violence, or sexual violence) or emotional and psychological pressure (e.g. if someone is made to feel like they’re bringing shame on their family). This is very different to an arranged marriage where both parties give consent.
FM is illegal in England and Wales. This includes: - taking someone overseas to force them to marry (whether or not the forced marriage takes place)
- marrying someone who lacks the mental capacity to consent to the marriage (whether they’re pressured to or not)
- Under-age Marriage In England, a young person cannot legally marry until they are 16 years old (without the consent of their parents or carers) nor have sexual relationships.
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) FGM is child abuse and a form of violence against women and girls, and therefore should be dealt with as part of existing child safeguarding/protection structures, policies, and procedures.
FGM is illegal in the UK. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, the practice is illegal under the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003.
Other than in the excepted circumstances, it is an offence for any person (regardless of their nationality or residence status) to: - perform FGM in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland (section 1 of the Act).
- assist a girl to carry out FGM on herself in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland (section 2 of the Act); and
- Assist (from England, Wales, or Northern Ireland) a non-UK person to carry out FGM outside the UK on a UK national or permanent UK resident (section 3 of the Act).
- Ritualistic Abuse Some faiths believe that spirits and demons can possess people (including children). What should never be considered is the use of any physical or psychological violence to get rid of the possessing spirit. This is abusive and will result in the criminal conviction of those using this form of abuse even if the intention is to help the child.
Sexually Active under Eighteen years old It is acknowledged by those working with young people that most young people under the age of 18 will have an interest in sex and sexual relationships. The Protocol for Sexually Active Young People under 18 years old has been designed to assist those working with children and young people to identify where these relationships may be abusive, and the children and young people may need the provision of protection or additional services.
Safer Recruitment and Selection It is a requirement for all agencies to ensure that all staff recruited to work with children and young people are properly selected and checked. We will ensure that we have a member on every recruitment panel who has received the appropriate recruitment and selection training. That all of our staff are appropriately qualified and have the relevant employment history and checks to ensure they are safe to work with children in compliance with the Key Safeguarding Employment Standards.
Honour Based Violence Honour based violence’ is a crime or incident, which has or may have been committed to protect or defend the honour of the family and/or community’. It is important to be alert to signs of distress and indications such as self-harm, absence from setting, infections resulting from female genital mutilation, isolation from peers, being monitored by family, not participating in setting activities, unreasonable restrictions at home. Where it is suspected that a child/young person is at risk form Honour based violence we will report those concerns to the appropriate agency in order to prevent this form of abuse taking place.
Trafficked Children Child trafficking involves moving children across or within national or international borders for the purposes of exploitation. Exploitation includes children being used for sex work, domestic work, restaurant/ sweatshop, drug dealing, shoplifting and benefit fraud. Where we are made aware of a child is suspected of or actually being trafficked/exploited we will report our concerns to the appropriate agency.
Domestic Abuse The Government defines domestic abuse as “Any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse (psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional) between adults who are or have been intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality”.
Staff need to understand what is required of them if children are members of the household where domestic abuse is known or suspected to be taking place. Our policy includes action to be taken regarding referrals to the Police and Children and Young People’s Services and any action to be taken where a member of staff is the alleged perpetrator or victim of domestic abuse. At Heavitree Community Preschool we will follow our safeguarding policy and report any suspected concerns regarding Domestic Abuse to the relevant agency.
Private Fostering Private fostering is an arrangement made between the parent and the private foster carer, who then becomes responsible for caring for the child in such a way as to safeguard and promote his/her welfare.
A privately fostered child means a child under the age of 16 (18 if a disabled child) who is cared for and provided with accommodation by someone other than: - A parent.
- A person who is not a parent but has parental responsibility.
- A close relative.
- A Local Authority.
- for more than 28 days and where the care is intended to continue. It is a statutory duty for us to inform the Local Authority via MASH where we are made aware of a child or young person who may be subject to private fostering arrangements.
