Safeguarding Children Policy

It is the aim of Wheathampstead Playgroup to provide a secure and safe environment for all children. The 1989 Children Act places a clear responsibility on Playgroups to ensure that they work together with other agencies to safeguard and promote the welfare of all children. This is further clarified in the Children Act 2004, in which integrated planning, commissioning and delivery of services, as well as the improving of multi-disciplinary working are encouraged.

• The designated Safeguarding Children Officer of Wheathampstead Playgroup is: Mrs Judith Parry. The designated Safeguarding Children Officer of Wheathampstead Playgroup’s Trustees is the Chairman.
• All applicants for employment at Playgroup will be interviewed before any appointment is made and will be asked to provide two references. These references will be followed up.
• All members of staff are CRB checked. These checks are to be carried out every three years. New members of staff who are awaiting CRB clearance will not accompany children to the toilet nor work with them alone in a separate room.
• Visitors, helping parents and students will not accompany children to the toilet nor work with them alone in a separate room.
• All permanent members of staff undertake safeguarding children training. This is to be updated every three years.
• If changes in a child's behaviour are observed or any form of abuse is suspected by staff, this will be discussed with the Group's Safeguarding Children Officer and other relevant members of staff.
• If, after discussion, staff still have concerns about a child's welfare the process and procedures for referral as set out in the guidance "What To Do If You're Worried A Child Is Being Abused" will be followed. A specific, accurate and detailed record of all discussions and observations will be made by a relevant member of staff.
• Confidentiality will be maintained at all times to ensure the safety of the child.
• Should any allegation be made against a member of staff, this will be investigated immediately by the Supervisor and Chairman of Playgroup. If the allegation is made against the Supervisor, then the Chairman of Playgroup and another member of the Trustees will investigate. The member of staff will be entitled to attend any meeting with a representative of their choice. If it is decided to take the matter further, the Child Protection Unit and Police will be informed. While the matter is under investigation, the member of staff will be suspended on full pay.

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