MEplace is committed to protecting children from harm and abuse. Staff have a responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of all children within our care, regardless of their age, culture, disability, gender, language, racial origin and religious beliefs.We work closely with families and cooperate fully with the Local Authorities, Police and Clinical Commissioning Groups to take all reasonable steps to minimise the risks of harm to all children who attend the nursery. We recognise that not all risks can be eliminated. We carry out daily risk assessments to ensure children feel secure and safe.Where we have concerns about the welfare of children, we will take appropriate action to address those concerns.This policy applies to all staff, including employees, bank staff and volunteers. This is also extended to independent contractors who are undertaking direct work with children on behalf of the nursery.

All staff, students and volunteers have a responsibility for safeguarding children, being vigilant and identifying and reporting any safeguarding concerns in line with this and supporting policies, including:

• CCTV Policy
• Confidentiality Policy
• Inclusion and Equality Policy
• ICT Acceptable Use Policy
• Intimate Care Policy
• Lockdown Policy
• Team and Visitors
• Personal Phones and Devices
• Missing Child (Nursery, Outings)
• Promoting Positive Behaviour Policy
• Recruitment and Selection Policy
• SEND Policy
• Uncollected Child Policy
• Visitors Policy
• Whistleblowing Policy

This policy is reviewed annually to ensure it remains in line with statutory guidance. Its effectiveness is monitored through staff and stakeholder reviews, appraisals and feedback to ensure appropriate knowledge and awareness are in place.

It is the responsibility of every staff member, student and volunteer to report any breaches of this policy to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).


‍

Policy Intent

The policy makes it clear that all staff, students and volunteers have a responsibility to safeguard children and young people and to protect them from harm. It aims to raise awareness of how to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and provides procedures should a child protection issue arise.This policy applies to all children up to the age of 18 years, whether living with their families, in state care or living independently (Working Together to Safeguard Children, 2023).

Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, concerning this policy, is defined as:

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

(Working together to safeguard children, 2023)

Child protection is an integral part of safeguarding children and promoting their overall welfare. In this policy, child protection shall mean:

• The activity that is undertaken to protect specific children who are suffering, or are at risk of suffering significant harm

To safeguard children and promote their welfare we will:

• Develop a safe culture where staff are confident to raise concerns about professional conduct
• Ensure all staff can identify the signs and indicators of abuse, including the softer signs of abuse, and know what action to take
• Share information with other agencies as appropriate

We promote:

• Always listening to children
• Positive images of children reflect a diverse society
• Children developing independence and autonomy as appropriate for their age and stage of development
• Safe and secure environments for children
• Tolerance and acceptance of different beliefs, cultures and communities
• Providing intervention and help for children and families in need

We have a duty to act quickly and responsibly in any instance that may come to our attention. If in any doubt about what constitutes a safeguarding concern, refer to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). If there is a concern, never do nothing; always do something, including sharing information with relevant agencies.

‍

Safeguarding is everybody’s responsibility.

The nursery aims to:

• Keep the child at the centre of all we do, providing sensitive interactions that develop and build children’s wellbeing, confidence and resilience. We will support children to develop positive relationships alongside an awareness of how to keep themselves safe and healthy.
• Be aware of the increased vulnerability of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and isolated families, and be aware of vulnerabilities in families, including the impact of the toxic trio (domestic violence and abuse; parental substance misuse - alcohol or drugs; parental mental health issues) on children, and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs).
• Ensure that all staff feel confident and supported to act in the best interest of the child, maintaining professional curiosity around the welfare of children, sharing information, and seeking help that a child may need at the earliest opportunity.Ensure that all staff are familiar and updated regularly with child protection training and procedures and keep informed of changes to local and/or national procedures, including thorough annual safeguarding updates.
• Make any child protection referrals in a timely way, sharing relevant information as necessary in line with procedures set out by the Local Authority (outlined in the Nursery Factsheet - for more information relating to your nursery site, please see the Factsheet which is displayed at the site entrance).Ensure that information is shared only with those people who need to know to protect the child and act in their best interest.
• Ensure that staff identify, minimise and manage risks while caring for children.
• Take any appropriate action relating to allegations of serious harm or abuse against any person working with children, including reporting such allegations to Ofsted and other relevant authorities.
• Ensure parents are fully aware of our safeguarding and child protection policies and procedures when they register with the nursery and are kept informed of all updates when they occur.
• Regularly review and update this policy with staff and parents where appropriate and make sure it complies with any legal requirements and any guidance or procedures issued by the Local Authority.

‍

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Please refer to the Nursery Factsheet, which indicates the name of DSL in each setting - for more information relating to your nursery site, please see the Factsheet which is displayed at the site entrance).



The DSL has overall responsibility for the Safeguarding Children and Child Protection Policy and procedures. It is their role to ensure that the policy and procedures are implemented to safeguard and promote the welfare of children. They are responsible for coordinating safeguarding and child protection training for staff across the organisation.



There is always at least one designated person on duty during the opening hours of the setting. The designated persons receive comprehensive training at least every two years and update their knowledge continuously but at least once a year. They, in turn, support the ongoing development and knowledge of the staff team with regular safeguarding updates.

In the unlikely event of the DSL or Deputy DSL absence and to ensure immediate action can be taken, contact the Local Safeguarding Partnership (LSP) (see emergency contact details - link can be found at the end of this policy).

‍

The role of DSL

The role of the DSL is to:

• Monitor and update the Safeguarding Children and Child Protection Policy and procedures in line with new legislation and to ensure it is effective. This will be done by making sure that everyone understands the correct procedures during their annual review.
• Ensure updates and new legislation are reflected in our services as soon as they are known.
• Act as a source of support, advice and expertise for all staff, children, volunteers and parents who have child protection concerns.
• Ensure detailed, accurate, and secure written records of concerns and referrals.
• Review all written safeguarding reports.
• Assess information provided promptly and carefully, and refer as appropriate to external agencies.
• Provide signposting to other organisation(s).
• Consult with statutory child protection agencies and regulatory bodies where
required.
• Make formal referrals to statutory child protection agencies or the police, as
required.

In addition, the DSL is required to:

• Keep up-to-date with good practices and national requirements for safeguarding and child protection
• Provide information on safeguarding and child protection for the setting
• Raise awareness of any safeguarding and child protection training needs and
implement where necessary
• Retain up-to-date knowledge of the role of the local safeguarding partnership,
arrangements and local child protection procedures.

The DSL does not investigate whether or not a child has been abused or investigate an allegation or disclosure. Investigations are for the appropriate authorities, usually the police and social services.

Sharing low-level concerns

On occasions where inappropriate or concerning behaviour by staff or other adults is observed but does not meet the threshold for significant harm, this may be classed as a ‘low-level’ concern, although this does not indicate that the concern is insignificant.

We define a low-level concern as:

• Any concern, no matter how small, that an adult working with children may have acted in a way that is inconsistent with our Policies, including inappropriate behaviour outside of work
• A concern which may be a sense of unease or a ‘nagging doubt’, and which does not meet the harm threshold or appear serious enough to refer to the LADO

We encourage a culture of openness, trust and transparency, with clear values and expected behaviour, monitored and reinforced by all staff. All concerns or allegations, however small, will be shared and responded to. All concerns will be shared with the DSL, or other nominated person, as in our reporting procedures. We encourage concerns to be shared as soon as reasonably practicable and preferably within 24 hours of becoming aware of it. However, it is never too late to share a low-level concern.

It is not expected that staff will be able to determine whether the behaviour in question is a concern, complaint or allegation before sharing the information. If the DSL is in any doubt as to whether the information meets the harm threshold, they will consult the LADO.

Occasionally, a member of staff may find themselves in a situation which could be misinterpreted or appear compromising to others. If this occurs, staff are encouraged to self-report to the DSL. Equally, a member of staff may have behaved in a manner which, on reflection, falls below the standards set in our Staff Behaviour Policy. If this occurs, staff are encouraged to self-report to the DSL. We encourage staff to be confident to self-refer and believe it reflects awareness of our standards of conduct and behaviour.

When the DSL receives the information, they will need to determine whether the behaviour:

• Meets, or may meet, the harm threshold (and so contact the LADO)
• Meets the harm threshold when combined with previous low-level concerns (and so contact the LADO)
• Constitutes a ‘low-level’ concernIt is appropriate and consistent with the law and our Staff Behaviour Policy.

The DSL will make appropriate records of all information shared, including:

• With the reporting person
• The subject matter of the concern
• Any relevant witnesses (where possible)
• Any external discussions, such as with the LSP or LADO
• Their decision about the nature of the concern
• Their rationale for that decision
• Any action taken

This constitutes a record of low-level concern. We retain all records of low-level concerns in a separate low-level concerns file, with separate concerns regarding a single individual kept as a chronology. These records are kept confidential and held securely, accessed only by those who have appropriate authority. Records will be retained at least until the individual leaves their employment.

If the low-level concern raises issues of misconduct, then appropriate actions following our disciplinary procedures will be taken.

‍

Monitoring Children’s Attendance

As part of our requirements under the statutory framework, we are required to monitor children’s attendance patterns to ensure they are consistent and have no cause for concern.



We ask parents to inform the nursery before their children take holidays or days off, and all incidents of sickness absence should be reported to the nursery on the same day so that the nursery management can account for a child’s absence. This is to be done on the Famly platform.

If a child has not arrived at the nursery by 10:00, the parents will be contacted to ensure the child is safe and healthy. If the parents are not contactable, then the emergency contact numbers listed will be used to ensure all parties are safe.

Where a child is part of a child protection plan or during a referral process, any absences will immediately be reported to the Local Authority Children’s social care team to ensure the child remains safe and well.

‍

Informing Parents

Parents are normally the first point of contact. If a suspicion of abuse is recorded, parents are informed at the same time as the report is made, except where the guidance of the local authority children’s social care team, police or LADO does not allow this to happen.

These exceptions will usually be in cases where the parent or family member is the likely abuser or where a child may be endangered by this disclosure. In such cases, the investigating officers will inform parents.

‍

Support to Families

The nursery takes every step in its power to build trusting and supportive relationships among families, staff, students and volunteers within the nursery.

The nursery will continue to welcome a child and their family whilst enquiries are being made about abuse in the home situation. Parents and families will be treated with respect in a non-judgmental manner whilst any external investigations are carried out in the best interest of the child.

‍

Confidentiality

Confidentiality must not override children's right to be protected from harm. However, every effort will be made to ensure confidentiality is maintained for all concerned if an allegation has been made and is being investigated.

If uncertain about whether sensitive information can be disclosed to a third party, contact the DSL or call the Information Commissioner’s Office on 0303 123 1113. They will provide advice about the particulars relating to each case, including information which can and cannot be shared.

Staff must not make any comments either publicly or in private, about the supposed or actual behaviour of a parent, child or member of staff.

‍

Record Keeping and Data Protection

Confidentiality records kept on a child are shared with the child's parents or those with parental responsibility for the child only if appropriate and in line with the guidance of the local authority, with the provision that the care and safety of the child are paramount. We will do all in our power to support and work with the child's family.

The nursery keeps appropriate records to support the early identification of children and families which would benefit from early help. Factual records are maintained in chronological order with parental discussions. Records are reviewed regularly by the DSL to look holistically at identifying children’s needs.

Our Data Protection and Confidentiality policy will be applied concerning any information received from an individual. Only persons involved in the investigation should handle this information, although any investigating body will have access to all information stored to support an investigation.

‍

1.2 DEFINITION OF ABUSE

‍

Definition of Significant Harm

The Children Act 1989 introduced the concept of significant harm as ‘the threshold that justifies compulsory intervention in family life in the best interests of children’. It gives Local Authorities a duty to make enquiries to decide whether they should take action to safeguard or promote the welfare of a child who is suffering, or likely to suffer, significant harm.

Whilst there are no absolute criteria to rely on when judging what constitutes significant harm, consideration should be given to:

• The severity of the ill-treatment, including the degree of harm
• The extent and frequency of abuse and/or neglect
• The impact this is likely to have, or is having, on the child involved.

This may be a single traumatic event, such as a violent assault, suffocation or poisoning, or it can be a combination of events (both acute and long-standing) that impairs the physical, intellectual, emotional, social or behavioural development of the child.

‍

Definitions of Abuse and Neglect

Abuse and neglect are forms of maltreatment of a child. Somebody may abuse or neglect a child by inflicting harm or by failing to act to prevent harm. Children may be abused within a family, institution or community setting by those known to them or, more rarely, a stranger. Perpetrators of abuse can be adults, another child or children.

The signs and indicators listed below may not necessarily indicate that a child has been abused, but they can help to indicate that something may be wrong, especially if a child shows a number of these symptoms or any of them to a marked degree.

Indicators of child abuse

• Failure to thrive and meet developmental milestones
• Fearful or withdrawn tendencies
• Unexplained injuries to a child or conflicting reports from parents or staff
• Repeated injuriesUnaddressed illnesses or injuries
• Significant changes to behaviour patterns.

Softer signs of abuse, as defined by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), include:

• Emotional states: fearful, withdrawn, low self-esteem.
• Behaviour: aggressive, habitual body rocking.
• Interpersonal behaviours: indiscriminate contact or affection seeking, over-friendliness to strangers, including healthcare professionals, excessive clinginess, persistently resorting to gaining attention, demonstrating excessively 'good' behaviour to prevent parent disapproval, failing to seek or accept appropriate comfort or affection from an appropriate person when significantly distressed, coercive controlling behaviour towards parents, lack of ability to understand and recognise emotions, very young children showing excessive comforting behaviours when witnessing parental or carer distress.

‍

Child-on-child abuse

Child-on-child abuse: children are included as potential abusers in our policies. Child-on-child abuse may take the form of bullying, physically hurting another child, emotional abuse or sexual abuse. Reporting procedures in these instances remain the same, although additional support from relevant agencies may be required to support both the victim and the perpetrator. Children who develop harmful behaviours are also likely to be victims of abuse or neglect.



→ If child-on-child abuse is suspected, then any concerns must be reported in line with our safeguarding procedures.

‍

Physical Abuse

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

→ If physical abuse is suspected, then any concerns must be reported in line with our safeguarding procedures.

‍

Fabricated or Induced Illness

This abuse is when a parent fabricates the symptoms of, or deliberately induces, illness in a child. The parent may seek out unnecessary medical treatment or investigation. They may exaggerate a real illness and symptoms or deliberately induce an illness through poisoning with medication or other substances, or they may interfere with medical treatments. This may also be presented through false allegations of abuse or encouraging the child to appear disabled or ill to obtain unnecessary treatment or specialist support.

→ If a fabricated or induced illness is suspected, then any concerns must be reported in line with our safeguarding procedures.

‍

Female Genital Mutilation

FGM is a procedure where the female genital organs are injured or changed for no medical reason. The procedure may be carried out shortly after birth, during childhood or adolescence, just before marriage or during a woman’s first pregnancy, according to the community.It is frequently a very traumatic and violent act for the victim and can cause harm in many ways. The practice can cause severe pain, and there may be immediate and/or long-term health consequences, including mental health problems, difficulties in childbirth, causing danger to the child and mother, and/or death. Other consequences include shock, bleeding, infections (tetanus, HIV and hepatitis B and C) and organ damage.



→ FGM is a form of physical abuse and any concerns must be reported in line with our safeguarding procedures. In addition, there is a mandatory duty to report to the police any case where an act of FGM appears to have been carried out on a girl under the age of 18.

‍

Breast Ironing or Breast Flattening

Breast ironing, also known as breast flattening, is a process where young girls' breasts are ironed, massaged and/or pounded down through the use of hard or heated objects for the breasts to disappear or to delay the development of the breasts entirely. It is believed that by carrying out this act, young girls will be protected from harassment, rape, abduction and early forced marriage. These actions can cause serious health issues such as abscesses, cysts, itching, tissue damage, infection, discharge of milk, dissymmetry of the breasts, and severe fever.

→ Breast ironing/flattening is a form of physical abuse and any concerns must be reported in line with our safeguarding procedures.

‍

Emotional Abuse

Working Together to Safeguard Children, 2023 defines emotional abuse as ‘the persistent emotional maltreatment of a child such as to cause severe and persistent adverse effects on the child’s emotional development.’ Some level of emotional abuse is involved in all types of maltreatment of a child, although it may occur separately.

Examples of emotional abuse include:

• Conveying to a child that they are worthless or unloved, inadequate, or valued only insofar as they meet the needs of another person
• Not giving children the opportunity to express their views, deliberately silencing them or ‘making fun’ of what they say or how they communicate.
• Age- or developmentally inappropriate expectations are being imposed, such as interactions that are beyond a child’s developmental capability, as well as overprotection and limitation of exploration and learning, or preventing the child from participating in normal social interaction.
• Serious bullying (including cyberbullying) causes children frequently to feel frightened or in danger, or the exploitation or corruption of children.
• A child seeing or hearing the ill-treatment of another.

A child may also experience emotional abuse through witnessing domestic abuse or alcohol and drug misuse by adults caring for them. In England, The Domestic Abuse Act (2021) recognises in law that children are victims of emotional abuse if they see, hear or otherwise experience the effects of domestic abuse.

Signs and indicators may include: delay in physical, mental and/or emotional development, sudden speech disorders, overreaction to mistakes, extreme fear of any new situation, neurotic behaviour (rocking, hair twisting, self-mutilation), extremes of passivity or aggression, appearing to lack confidence or self-assurance.

→ If emotional abuse is suspected, then any concerns must be reported in line with our safeguarding procedures.

‍

Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse involves forcing or enticing a child to take part in sexual activities. Sexual abuse does not necessarily involve a high level of violence and includes whether or not the child is aware of what is happening. The activities may involve physical contact, including assault by penetration (for example, rape or oral sex) or non-penetrative acts such as masturbation, kissing, rubbing and touching outside of clothing. They may also include non-contact activities, such as involving children in looking at or in the production of sexual images, watching sexual activities, encouraging children to behave in sexually inappropriate ways, or grooming a child in preparation for abuse.

Sexual abuse can take place online, and technology can be used to facilitate offline abuse. Adult males are not the sole perpetrators of sexual abuse; women also commit acts of sexual abuse, as do other children. This policy applies to all children up to the age of 18 years.

Action must be taken if staff witness symptoms of sexual abuse, including a child indicating sexual activity through words, play or drawing, having an excessive preoccupation with sexual matters or having an inappropriate knowledge of adult sexual behaviour or language for their developmental age. This may include acting out sexual activity on dolls or toys or in the role-play area with their peers, drawing pictures that are inappropriate for a child, talking about sexual activities or using sexual language or words.

Additional signs of emotional and physical symptoms potentially arising through sexual abuse:

‍‍

Emotional signs

• Being overly affectionate or knowledgeable in a sexual way inappropriate to the child's age or stage of development
• Personality changes, such as becoming insecure or clingy
• Regressing to younger behaviour patterns, such as thumb sucking or bringing out discarded cuddly toys
• Sudden loss of appetite or compulsive eatingBeing isolated or withdrawnInability to concentrateLack of trust or fear of someone they know well, such as not wanting to be alone with a carer
• Becoming worried about clothing being removed.

‍

Physical signs

• Bruises
• Bleeding, discharge, pains or soreness in their genital or anal area
• Sexually transmitted infections
• Pregnancy

‍→ If sexual abuse is suspected, then any concerns must be reported in line with our safeguarding procedures.

‍

Neglect

Working Together to Safeguard Children, 2023 defines neglect as ‘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.’

Neglect may occur during pregnancy as a result of maternal substance abuse. Once a child is born, neglect may involve adults involved in the care of the child failing to:

• Provide adequate food, clothing and shelter (including exclusion from home or abandonment)
• Protect them from physical harm or danger
• Ensure adequate supervision (including the use of inadequate caregivers)
• Ensure access to appropriate medical care or treatmentRespond to their basic emotional needs

An NSPCC briefing (July 2021) found neglect to be the most common form of abuse, with one in ten children in the UK having been neglected. Concerns around neglect have been identified for half of children who are subject to a child protection plan or on a child protection register in the UK. Younger children are more likely than older children to be the subject of a child protection plan in England because of neglect, although research suggests that the neglect of older children is more likely to go overlooked.

Signs of neglect include a child persistently arriving at nursery unwashed or unkempt, wearing clothes that are too small (especially shoes that may restrict the child’s growth or hurt them), arriving at the nursery in the same nappy they went home in, or a child having an illness or identified special educational need or disability that is not being addressed. A child may be persistently hungry if a caregiver is withholding or not providing enough food. A child who is not receiving the attention they need at home may crave it from other adults, such as at nursery or school.

→  If neglect is suspected, then any concerns must be reported in line with our safeguarding procedures.

‍

Domestic Abuse

The definition of domestic abuse from the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 is:

The behaviour of a person (A) towards another person (B) is ‘domestic abuse’ if:

• A and B are each aged 16 or over and are personally connected to each other
• The behaviour is abusive

Behaviour is ‘abusive’ if it consists of any of the following:

• Physical or sexual abuse
• Violent or threatening behaviour
• Controlling or coercive behaviour
• Economic abuse (any behaviour that has a substantial adverse effect on B’s ability to acquire, use or maintain money or other property and/or obtain goods or services)
• Psychological, emotional or other abuse.

It does not matter whether the behaviour consists of a single incident or a course of conduct.

Domestic abuse can happen to anyone regardless of gender, age, social background, religion, sexuality or ethnicity, and domestic abuse can happen at any stage in a relationship.

Signs and symptoms of domestic abuse include:

• Changes in behaviour (for example, becoming very quiet, anxious, frightened,
tearful, aggressive, distracted, depressed etc.)
• Visible bruising or single or repeated, injury with unlikely explanations
• Change in the manner of dress (for example, clothes to hide injuries that do not suit the weather)
• Stalking, including excessive phone calls or messagesPartner or ex-partner exerting an unusual amount of control or demands over work schedule
• Frequent lateness or absence from work

All children can witness and be adversely affected by domestic abuse in the context of their home life. Exposure to domestic abuse and/or violence can have a serious, long-lasting emotional and psychological impact on children.

Where incidents of domestic abuse are shared by our staff, students or volunteers, we will respect confidentiality at all times and not share information without their permission. However, we will share this information, without permission, in cases of child protection or where we believe there is an immediate risk of serious harm to the person involved.

→ If domestic abuse is suspected, then any concerns must be reported in line with our safeguarding procedures.

‍

Contextual Safeguarding

As young people grow and develop, they may be vulnerable to abuse or exploitation from outside their family. These extra-familial threats might arise at school and other educational establishments, from within peer groups, or more widely from within the wider community and/or online.

As part of our safeguarding procedures, we will work in partnership with parents and other agencies to work together to safeguard children and provide support around contextual safeguarding concerns.

‍

Child Sexual Exploitation and Child Criminal Exploitation

Both CSE and CCE are forms of abuse that occur where an individual or group takes advantage of an imbalance in power to coerce, manipulate or deceive a child into taking part in sexual or criminal activity in exchange for something the victim needs or wants and/or for the financial advantage or increased status of the perpetrator or facilitator, and/or through violence or the threat of violence. CSE and CCE can affect both male and female children and can include children who have been moved (commonly referred to as trafficking) for exploitation (Keeping Children Safe in Education, 2023).

‍

Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE)

• CSE is where an individual or group takes advantage of an imbalance of power to coerce, manipulate or deceive a child into sexual activity. The victim may have been sexually exploited even if the sexual activity appears consensual. CSE does not always involve physical contact; it can also occur through the use of technology, and maybe without the child’s immediate knowledge, such as through others copying videos or images they have created and posted on social media.

Signs and symptoms include:

• Physical injuries such as bruising or bleedingHaving money or gifts, they are unable to explain
• Sudden changes in their appearance
• Becoming involved in drugs or alcohol, particularly if it is suspected they are being supplied by older men or women
• Becoming emotionally volatile (mood swings are common in all young people, but more severe changes could indicate that something is wrong)
• Using sexual language beyond that expected for their age or stage of development
• Engaging less with their usual friends
• Appearing controlled by their phone
• Switching to a new screen when you come near the computer
• Nightmares or sleeping problemsRunning away, staying out overnight, missing school
• Changes in eating habitsTalk of a new, older friend, boyfriend or girlfriend
• Losing contact with family and friends or becoming secretive
• Contracting sexually transmitted diseases

‍

Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE)

CCE is where an individual or group takes advantage of an imbalance of power to coerce, control, manipulate or deceive a child into any criminal activity. The victim may have been criminally exploited even if the activity appears consensual. CCE does not always involve physical contact; it can also occur through the use of technology.

Examples include children being forced to work in cannabis factories, being coerced into moving drugs or money across the country, and being forced to shoplift,  pickpocket or threaten other young people. Signs and symptoms of CCE are similar to those of CSE.

→ If CSE or CCE is suspected, then any concerns must be reported in line with our safeguarding procedures.

‍

County Lines

The National Crime Agency (NCA) defines county lines as gangs and organised criminal networks involved in exporting illegal drugs from big cities into smaller towns, using dedicated mobile phone lines or other forms of ‘deal line.’ Customers live in a different area from the dealers, so drug runners are needed to transport the drugs and collect payment.

Perpetrators often use coercion, intimidation, violence (including sexual violence) and weapons to ensure compliance of victims. A child is targeted and recruited into county lines through schools, further and higher educational institutions, pupil referral units, special educational needs schools, children’s homes and care homes.

Signs and symptoms include:

• Changes in dress style
• Unexplained, unaffordable new things (for example, clothes, jewellery, cars, etc.)
• Missing from home or school and/or a significant decline in performance
• New friends with those who don't share any mutual friendships with the victim, gang association or isolation from peers or social networksIncrease in antisocial behaviour in the community, including weapons
• Receiving more texts or calls than usual
• Unexplained injuries
• Significant changes in emotional well-beingBeing seen in different cars or taxis driven by unknown adults
• A child being unfamiliar with where they are.

→ If involvement in county lines is suspected, then any concerns must be reported in line with our safeguarding procedures.

‍

Cuckooing

Cuckooing is a form of county-line crime. In this instance, the drug dealers take over the home of a vulnerable person to criminally exploit them by using their home as a base for drug dealing or in multi-occupancy or social housing properties.

Signs and symptoms include:

• An increase in people, particularly unknown people, entering or leaving a home or taking up residence.
• An increase in cars or bikes outside a home
• A neighbour who hasn't been seen for an extended period
• Windows covered, or curtains closed for a long period
• Change in resident's mood and/or demeanour (for example, secretive, withdrawn, aggressive or emotional)
• Substance misuse and/or drug paraphernalia
• Increased anti-social behaviour.

→ If cuckooing is suspected, then any concerns must be reported in line with our safeguarding procedures.

‍

Child Trafficking and Child Slavery

Child trafficking and modern slavery are when children are recruited, moved, transported and then exploited, forced to work or sold.

For a child to have been a victim of trafficking, there must have been:

• Action: recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt of a child for exploitation
• Purpose: sexual exploitation, forced labour or domestic servitude, slavery, financial exploitation, illegal adoption, removal of organs

Modern slavery includes slavery, servitude and forced or compulsory labour and child trafficking. Victims of modern slavery are also likely to be subjected to other types of abuse such as physical, sexual and emotional abuse.

Signs and symptoms for children include:

• Being under control and reluctant to interact with others
• Having few personal belongings, wearing the same clothes every day or wearing unsuitable clothes
• Being unable to move around freely
• Appearing frightened, withdrawn, or showing signs of physical or emotional abuse.

→ If child trafficking or modern slavery is suspected, then any concerns must be reported in line with our safeguarding procedures.

‍

Forced marriage

A forced marriage is defined as a marriage in which one or both spouses do not consent to the marriage but are coerced into it. Duress can include physical, psychological, financial, sexual and emotional pressure’.

Where incidents of forced marriage are shared by our staff, students or volunteers, we will respect confidentiality at all times and not share information without their permission. However, we will share this information without permission in cases of child protection or where we believe there is an immediate risk of serious harm to the person involved.

→ If it is suspected that a forced marriage is being planned, then any concerns must be reported in line with our safeguarding procedures.

‍

Honour Based Abuse (HBA)

HBA is described as ‘incidents or crimes which have been committed to protect or defend the honour of the family and/or the community, including female genital mutilation (FGM), forced marriage, and practices such as breast ironing’ (Keeping Children Safe in Education, 2022). Such abuse can occur when perpetrators perceive that a relative has shamed the family and/or community by breaking their ‘honour’ code. It is a violation of human rights and may comprise domestic, emotional and/or sexual abuse, such as the victim being held against their will, threats of violence or actual assault. It often involves wider family networks or community pressure, and so can include multiple perpetrators.

Signs and symptoms of HBA include:

• Changes in how the child dresses or acts
• Visible injuries, or repeated injury, with unlikely explanations
• Signs of depression, anxiety or self-harmFrequent absences
• Restrictions on friends or attending events

Where incidents of HBA are shared by our staff, students or volunteers, we will respect confidentiality at all times and not share information without their permission. However, we will share this information without permission in cases of child protection or where we believe there is an immediate risk of serious harm to the person involved.

→ If Honour Based Abuse is suspected then any concerns must be reported in line with our safeguarding procedures.


‍

Child Abuse linked to Faith or Belief (CALFB)


Child abuse linked to faith or belief (CALFB) can happen in families when there is a concept of belief in:

Witchcraft and spirit possession, demons or the devil acting through children or leading them astray (traditionally seen in some Christian beliefs)The evil eye or djinns (traditionally known in some Islamic faith contexts) and dakini (in the Hindu context)Ritual or multi-murders where the killing of children is believed to bring supernatural benefits, or the use of their body parts is believed to produce potent magical remediesUse of belief in magic or witchcraft to create fear in children to make them more compliant when they are being trafficked for domestic slavery or sexual exploitationChildren’s actions have brought bad fortune to the family or community.    

→ If Child abuse linked to faith or belief is suspected, then any concerns must be reported in line with our safeguarding procedures.


‍

Extremism and Radicalisation

Under the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015, there is a duty to safeguard vulnerable and at-risk children by preventing them from being drawn into terrorism. This is known as the Prevent Duty.

Children can be exposed to different views and receive information from various sources and some of these views may be considered radical or extreme. Radicalisation is the way a person comes to support or be involved in extremism and terrorism; usually, it’s a gradual process so those who are affected may not realise what’s happening. Radicalisation is a form of harm. The process may involve:

• Being groomed online or in person
• Exploitation, including sexual exploitation
• Psychological manipulation
• Exposure to violent material and other inappropriate information
• The risk of physical harm or death through extremist acts

→ If radicalisation or extremism is suspected, then any concerns must be reported in line with our safeguarding procedures. This includes reporting concerns to the police.

For further information visit The Prevent Duty website.


‍

Online Safety

While the growth of internet and mobile device use brings many advantages, the use of technology has become a significant component of many safeguarding issues such as child sexual exploitation and radicalisation.



There are four main areas of risk associated with online safety

• Content - being exposed to illegal, inappropriate or harmful material such as
pornography, fake news, racist or radical and extremist views
• Contact - being subjected to harmful online interaction with other users such as commercial advertising or adults posing as children or young adultsConduct - personal online behaviour that increases the likelihood of, or causes, harm, such as making, sending and receiving explicit images and online bullying
• Commerce - risks such as online gambling, inappropriate advertising, phishing and or financial scams.

Report online safety concerns to the DSL and to the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP): https://www.ceop.police.uk/Safety-Centre/



Inappropriate content received via email must be reported to the DSL and to the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF): hEps://www.iwf.org.uk/

‍

Upskirting

Upskirting is a criminal offence. It involves taking a picture of someone’s genitals or buttocks under their clothing without them knowing, either for sexual gratification or to humiliate, or distress, the individual.

→ If upskirting is suspected, then any concerns must be reported in line with our safeguarding procedures.

‍

1.3 REPORTING PROCEDURES

‍

Public interest disclosure (whistleblowing)

‍Whistleblowing is the term used when a worker passes on information concerning wrongdoing. All safeguarding allegations, internal or external, current or historical, must be passed on to the DSL. We will cooperate fully with the authorities involved and follow any guidance given.

We believe keeping children safe is the highest priority and if, for whatever reason, concerns cannot be reported to the DSL or deputy DSL, concerns can be reported anonymously to the NSPCC, the police or the LA social services safeguarding children team.

‍

Allegations against our staff

An allegation against our staff may relate to a person who 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 towards a child or children in a way that indicates he or she may pose a risk of harm to children, or
• Behaved or may have behaved in a way that indicates they may not be suitable to work with children.

We will make every effort to maintain the confidentiality of all parties while an allegation or concern is being investigated. Dealing with an allegation can be a stressful experience and, to support the staff member, liaison with the DSL or Deputy DSL will be offered. The timeframes for an investigation will follow the guidelines of other involved authorities.

We reserve the right to suspend a staff member until the investigation is concluded. Further action will be determined by the outcome of the investigation.

Founded allegations are considered gross misconduct, following our disciplinary procedures, and may result in the termination of employment. DBS will be informed to ensure their records are updated and Ofsted will be informed. We retain the right to dismiss any member of staff in connection with founded allegations following an inquiry.All safeguarding records are kept until the person reaches normal retirement age or for 21 years and 3 months if that is longer. This will ensure accurate information is available for references and future DBS checks and avoids unnecessary reinvestigation.

Unfounded allegations will result in all rights being reinstated. A return-to-work plan will be put in place for any member of staff returning to work after an allegation has been deemed unfounded. Individual support will be offered to meet the needs of the staff member and the nature of the incident such as more frequent supervision, coaching and mentoring or external support services.


If the member of staff resigns during the investigation, we will inform DBS, Ofsted and the police, where appropriate.

‍

Support for staff during safeguarding incidents

The DSL will support staff throughout any of the processes listed above and will organise appropriate counselling should this be required.

Any member of staff who has concerns about the content of this policy and its procedures should speak to the DSL as soon as possible. If any member of staff wishes to talk confidentially about any safeguarding concern or any other issue relating to child protection or personal circumstances, it is important to do this as soon as possible.

‍

Recipients for Safeguarding Concerns

Designated Safeguarding Lead: If you have safeguarding concerns, you should communicate them to the "Designated Safeguarding Lead." This person is specifically responsible for managing and overseeing safeguarding concerns.

Deputy Safeguarding Lead: In the absence of the Designated Safeguarding Lead, concerns can be shared with the "Deputy Safeguarding Lead." They are trained to handle and address safeguarding issues.

Nominated Individual: Any concerns can be reported directly to the designated "Nominated Individual." The nominated individual holds a key role in the process and will be kept informed of all concerns. If you have any concerns, you can directly report them to the nominated individual.

‍

Reporting Procedure

We will always act on behalf of the child and will do everything possible to ensure the safety and welfare of any child, and so will take all allegations of potential abuse seriously. All concerns reported to staff will be pursued, regardless of the nature of the concern and to whom the allegation relates.

All staff have a responsibility to report safeguarding and child protection concerns and suspicions of abuse. These concerns will be discussed with the DSL as soon as possible, as follows:

‍

1.4 Recruitment, selection, induction and training

‍

Recruitment and selection

Through the implementation of our Recruitment Policy, we endeavour to prevent unsuitable people from becoming members of staff. Procedures include relevant checks, such as requesting references, establishing the identity of the applicant and conducting criminal records disclosures. Where required, staff and stakeholders have enhanced DBS checks. Clear person specification criteria and processes during the recruitment and selection process enable us to determine a candidate’s suitability for the role.

We have specific responsibilities, as outlined in this policy, for any staff, apprentices, students and learners under the age of 18 whether living with their families, in state care or living independently.

‍

Induction and probation for staff

As part of our induction process, all new workers will receive basic training on this Safeguarding Children and Child Protection Policy so they have the necessary knowledge and skills to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.

Before induction, all staff will receive a copy of this policy. It is the line manager’s responsibility to ensure that the new staff member understands it and can follow it. All safeguarding training must be completed by the end of the probationary period.All staff are expected to keep their safeguarding knowledge and skills up-to-date and report any concerns they may have. We maintain records to ensure all staff have received the training they need.

‍

Learners on placements or in employment

We hold responsibility for ensuring that learners on placement or in employment are familiar with and sign up to this policy and agree to work within this framework. Learners will receive basic child protection training before starting their placement.

Learners and students under the age of 18 will be protected as children. Risk assessments will be completed to ensure their safety and well-being are protected and supported during their employment or training period. If situations arise during employment or placement which identify those aged 18 or under are at risk from abuse or neglect, we will contact the appropriate bodies to ensure the individual is safeguarded.

‍

Responding to and recording disclosures

Staff, volunteers or students may receive a safeguarding disclosure. See the guidance below for responding to and reporting disclosures of abuse.

‍

How to respond to a child’s disclosure of abuse - what to do and say:

• Stay calm and listen carefully
• Try not to look shocked, and reassure them that this is not their fault
• Find an appropriate opportunity to say that the information will need to be shared and do not promise to keep the information shared a secret
• Allow the child to continue at their own paceOnly ask questions for clarification and avoid asking any questions that may suggest a particular answer
• Reassure the child that they have done the right thing; let them know what you will do next and with whom the information will be shared
• Record the disclosure on Safeguarding Notes on the Famly app, writing using the child’s own words as soon as possible, but not while the child is talkingInclude the date and time, any names mentioned and to whom the information was given
• Write your name and date on the record, store it securely and refer the disclosure to your DSL.

‍

Recording a case of disclosure or suspicions of abuse in the community:

If you observe a concern or receive a disclosure, make an objective record. Where possible include:

• Child's name and address
• Age of the child and date of birth
• Setting name and address
• Date and time of the observation or disclosure
• Details of the concern using factual information, including the exact words, if
relevantAccurate details of the observation, including actions of the child or adult involved
• Accurate details of an injury or wound seen, including position and size
• The names of any other person present at the time
• Name of the person completing the report
• Name of the person to whom the concern was shared, with date and time.

Discuss the record with the setting DSL or manager and follow the procedures. We expect all members of staff and stakeholders to cooperate with relevant agencies to ensure the safety of children.

‍

Legal framework

We adhere to all current legislation, as below:

Legal framework
We adhere to all current legislation, as below:

• Children and Social Work Act 2017
• Criminal Justice and Court Services Act 2000

• Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003 (as amended by the Serious Crime Act 2015)
• Freedom of Information Act 2012

• Keeping Children Safe in Education 2023

• Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006

• The Childcare Act 2006

• The Children Act 2004

• The Children Act (England and Wales) 1989

• The Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015
• The Data Protection Acts 1984, 1998 and 2018

• The Domestic Abuse Act 2021

• The Human Rights Act 1998

• The Police Act 1997

• The Sexual Offences Act 2003
Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023

Relevant non-statutory guidance

• Child Sexual Exploitation, DfE 2017
• Information Sharing, DfE 2015
• What to do if you’re worried a child is being abused, DfE 2015

At MEplace, we expect all our colleagues, both internal and external, to maintain professionalism and prioritise the welfare and safety of every child. However, we recognise that there may be instances where this expectation is not met. To address this, we have established a procedure for staff to disclose any information that suggests children's welfare and safety may be at risk.

Under the legal framework of the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998, often referred to as the 'Whistleblowing Act,' employees are protected when raising legitimate concerns about specified matters, known as 'qualifying disclosures.' These include criminal offences, miscarriages of justice, risks to health and safety, damage to the environment, breaches of legal obligations, unethical conduct, or acts that could be seen as radicalised or a threat to national security.

To make a protected disclosure, employees must believe the information to be substantially true and not act maliciously or make false allegations. Personal gain should not be sought. It is not necessary for employees to have proof of the alleged act; a reasonable belief is sufficient.

If, during employment, an employee becomes aware of information indicating a child is, may be, or is likely to be at risk, or any of the qualifying circumstances mentioned above, you MUST follow the nursery's disclosure procedure outlined below:

• At MEplace, we expect all our colleagues, both internal and external, to maintain professionalism and prioritise the welfare and safety of every child. However, we recognise that there may be instances where this expectation is not met. To address this, we have established a procedure for staff to disclose any information that suggests children's welfare and safety may be at risk.
• Under the legal framework of the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998, often referred to as the 'Whistleblowing Act,' employees are protected when raising legitimate concerns about specified matters, known as 'qualifying disclosures.' These include criminal offences, miscarriages of justice, risks to health and safety, damage to the environment, breaches of legal obligations, unethical conduct, or acts that could be seen as radicalised or a threat to national security.
  To make a protected disclosure, employees must believe the information to be substantially true and not act maliciously or make false allegations. Personal gain should not be sought. It is not necessary for employees to have proof of the alleged act; a reasonable belief is sufficient.
  If, during employment, an employee becomes aware of information indicating a child is, may be, or is likely to be at risk, or any of the qualifying circumstances mentioned above, you MUST follow the nursery's disclosure procedure outlined below:
  If the information relates to child protection and safeguarding, the Safeguarding Children and Child Protection Policy should be followed, specifically referring to the staff and volunteering section.


  If a reasonable belief arises concerning any of the qualifying circumstances, promptly disclose this information to your manager. If it is inappropriate to disclose the information to your manager or safeguarding lead (e.g., if it involves your manager), please speak to the nominated individual. The identity of the DSL and deputies for each site can be found in the relevant Nursery Factsheet (for more information relating to your nursery site, please see the Factsheet which is displayed at the site entrance).

• Employees who make such disclosures following this procedure will face no detrimental consequences. For further guidance, employees can speak confidentially to the Nursery Manager or Nominated Individual. The identity of the Nursery Manager and Nominated Individual for each site can be found in the relevant Nursery Factsheet (for more information relating to your nursery site, please see the Factsheet which is displayed at the site entrance).

• All disclosures or concerns raised will be treated seriously, handled consistently, and kept confidential. They will be thoroughly investigated.


• Any employee found to victimise employees who make a disclosure, take action to discourage information disclosure, or make malicious allegations in bad faith may face potential disciplinary action, including dismissal.


• Failure to report serious matters can also be investigated and potentially result in disciplinary action and/or dismissal.

• Inappropriate handling of a whistleblowing issue by a management employee, such as failing to react appropriately or disclosing confidential information, may be deemed as gross misconduct and could lead to dismissal.
• All staff members will be provided with contact information for the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO), the local authority children's social care team, and Ofsted, allowing them to seek external assistance if internal discussions prove challenging.


  An internal whistleblowing form link can be found at the end of this policy, which allows individuals to report concerns anonymously if preferred. The internal whistleblowing form is received by the management team and the nominated individual, who ensure that all concerns are treated confidentially and addressed effectively.
• We value the importance of whistleblowing in maintaining the safety and well-being of children within our care and ensuring high-quality practices across the nursery. This policy provides guidance to staff who wish to raise concerns about malpractice within the nursery and reinforces our commitment to creating an environment where it is safe to address poor, unacceptable, or dangerous practices.

Relevant Links - Internal Whistleblowing

‍
HWK MEbaby
HWK MEbig 


At MEplace, we believe that safeguarding children and their families is the responsibility of all who work at or visit the nursery.
Visitors may include prospective parents, other professionals (e.g. local authority workers), Ofsted inspectors, people in the community who may come to talk to the children (e.g. librarians), contractors to complete work, deliveries etc.

Where applicable, we ask visitors to book in advance, so arrangements can be made to accompany them. The identity is checked of any visitors attending in a professional capacity, e.g. Ofsted inspectors, speech and language therapists.

A member of staff must accompany visitors in the nursery at all times while in the building; at no time should a visitor be left alone. 

In order to ensure that this aim is fulfilled, we ask that visitors follow the simple guidelines below:

• Always report to reception on entry, stating who you are and who you are here to see. You will be then asked to sign in and out, using a digital form - a link can be found at the end of this policy. Please wear your visitor badge at all times during your visit to the nursery. 
• If you observe any safeguarding concerns whilst in the nursery please inform our Designated Safeguarding Lead.
• Personal mobile telephone use is not permitted within the nursery. If you need to use your mobile telephone, please use it outside the nursery premises or in the staff room. 
• We do not allow hot food or drinks in rooms where there are children present.
• Only water in a clear bottle is to be consumed within the nursery.

(A copy of our Safeguarding Policy is available on request).

‍

Security of premises

• All external doors must be kept locked at all times and external gates closed. All internal doors and gates must be kept closed to ensure children are not able to leave the nursery unattended
• Staff, parents, visitors and students are reminded not to hold doors open or allow entry to any person, whether they know this person or not. Staff within the nursery should be the only people allowing external visitors and parents entry to the nursery.
• The nursery will under no circumstances tolerate any form of harassment from third parties, including visitors, towards others, including children, staff members and parents. The police may be called in these circumstances.

The Nursery Coordinator or another member of staff will show you the fire exits in the building and inform you about any planned fire drills for the duration of your visit. 

Fire alarm tests take place on Fridays. If the alarm goes off at any other time then please leave the building via our fire exits.

The assembly point for the building will be communicated to you by the Nursery Coordinator.

If you have an accident, please report to a staff member. All staff have first aid training.

Relevant Links - Visitor Form

HWK MEbaby
HWK MEbig 
Kings Cross

‍

Our substitute teachers play an essential role. When teachers are sick or on a course, we have a team of passionate, consistent and reliable staff to fill in, who share our values and teaching philosophy.
Teachers Standards for Early Years

An Early Years teacher must:

1. Set high expectations which inspire, motivate and challenge all children.
   • Establish and sustain a safe and stimulating environment where children feel confident and are able to learn and develop.
   • Set goals that stretch and challenge children of all backgrounds, abilities and dispositions.
   • Demonstrate and model the positive values, attitudes and behaviours expected of children.
     


2. Promote good progress and outcomes by children.
   • Be accountable for children’s progress, attainment and outcomes.
   • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of how babies and children learn and develop.
   • Know and understand attachment theories, their significance and how effectively to promote secure attachments.
   • Lead and model effective strategies to develop and extend children’s learning and thinking, including sustained shared thinking.
   • Communicate effectively with children from birth to age five, listening and responding sensitively.
   • Develop children’s confidence, social and communication skills through group learning.
   • Understand the important influence of parents and/or carers, working in partnership with them to support the child's wellbeing, learning and development.
     ‍
3. Demonstrate good knowledge of early learning and EYFS.
   • Have a secure knowledge of early childhood development and how that leads to successful learning and development at school.
   • Demonstrate a clear understanding of how to widen children’s experience and raise their expectations.
   • Demonstrate a critical understanding of the EYFS areas of learning and development and engage with the educational continuum of expectations, curricula and teaching of Key Stage 1 and 2.
   • Demonstrate a clear understanding of systematic synthetic phonics in the teaching of early reading.
   • Demonstrate a clear understanding of appropriate strategies in the teaching of early mathematics.

   • Plan education and care, taking into account the needs of all children.
   • Observe and assess children’s development and learning, using this to plan next steps.
     ‍
4. Plan balanced and flexible activities and educational programmes that take into account the stage of development, circumstances and interests of children.
   • Promote a love of learning and stimulate children’s intellectual curiosity in partnership with parents and/or carers.
   • Use a variety of teaching approaches to lead group activities appropriate to the age range and ability of children.
   • Reflect on the effectiveness of teaching activities and educational programmes to support the continuous improvement of provision.


     ‍
5. Adapt education and care to respond to the strengths and needs of all children.Have a secure understanding of how a range of factors can inhibit children’s learning and development and how best to address these.
   • Demonstrate an awareness of the physical, emotional, social, intellectual development and communication needs of babies and children, and know how to adapt education and care to support children at different stages of development.
   • Demonstrate a clear understanding of the needs of all children, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, and be able to use and evaluate distinctive approaches to engage and support them.
   • Support children through a range of transitions.
   • Know when a child requires additional support and how this can be accessed, working in partnership with parents and/or carers and other professionals.


     ‍
6. Make accurate and productive use of assessment
   • Understand and lead assessment within the framework of the EYFS framework.
   • Engage effectively with parents and/or carers and other professionals in the ongoing assessment and provision for each child.
   • Give regular feedback to children and parents and/or carers to help children progress towards their goals.
     ‍
7. Safeguard and promote the welfare of children and provide a safe learning environment.
   • Know and act upon the legal requirements and guidance on health and safety, safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the child.
   • Establish and sustain a safe environment and employ practices that promote children’s health and safety.
   • Know and understand child protection policies and procedures, recognise when a child is in danger or at risk of abuse, and know how to act to protect them.


     ‍
8. Fulfil wider professional responsibilities.
   • Promote equality of opportunity and anti-discriminatory practice.
   • Make a positive contribution to the wider life and ethos of the setting.
   • Take the lead in establishing a culture of cooperative working between colleagues, parents and/or carers and other professionals.
   • Model and implement effective education and care, and support and lead other practitioners, including Early Years Educators.
   • Take responsibility for leading practice through appropriate professional development for self and colleagues.
   • Reflect on and evaluate the effectiveness of provision, and shape and support good practice.
   • Understand the importance of and contribute to teamwork.


Upon the arrival of a substitute teacher at any of our sites, the Visitor Policy and Procedure will be followed. For additional information regarding visitors, please refer to the Visitor Policy. This measure ensures consistent compliance with our established guidelines and promotes a secure and harmonious environment across our sites.

As the registered provider, we will use our judgment to determine whether we should notify Ofsted. The greater the risk to children posed by the significant event, the more likely it is that we will notify Ofsted.

We also need to inform Ofsted about anything significant that is likely to affect the suitability of individuals to care for or be in regular contact with, children. Ofsted needs to know about these events, even if they happen:
when we are not working with children (in the evening or weekend)

• when we have no children on the roll
• away from the registered premises

Ofsted needs to hear about significant events that are related to the registered person and people connected with our registration, including:

• anyone aged 16 or over who lives, or works during childcare hours, in a childminder’s home or childcare on domestic premises
• everyone that Ofsted checked when the nursery was registered, such as the nominated individual, directors, partners, committee members and others associated with registered childcare

This is to make sure that OFSTED can check that all individuals connected with the registration continue to be suitable.
‍

When we MUST notify OFSTED

As the registered provider, we must notify OFSTED of significant events as soon as reasonably possible, and no more than 14 days from when the event happened.
‍

Examples of significant events (which we MUST notify Ofsted about)

OFSTED cannot list all possible events, but they have listed some examples to help settings decide what may count as a significant event. In any case, if something happens that is likely to affect an individual’s continued suitability to care for or be in regular contact with children, the Nursery Manager should count it as a significant event.
Examples of significant events may include:

• involvement with safeguarding partners and statutory agencies about incidents or concerns that might affect someone’s suitability, for instance, child protection, welfare or safety investigations. These agencies and organisations could include: the police, the Local Authority (and services within it), mental health services, drug/alcohol services, fire services, environmental health, and building control and planning departments
• a device containing children’s information being stolen
• an incident where a child or children may have been at risk of harm, for example:
  • involved in a car accident when transporting children and the police are investigating a possible offence
  • a child was able to leave a setting or was missing for any period 
  • a child was not adequately supervised (such as being left unattended in a car)
  • an unauthorised person gained access to the childcare premises
• if anyone in the building has been the victim of a crime that occurred on the childcare premises, such as assault, harassment or vandalism
• any incidents of domestic abuse
• any incidents of self-harm or overdose
• any one-off or ongoing incidents on or around your premises that may affect children, such as violence, criminal or sexual exploitation and gangs, county lines activity, grooming and child trafficking
• the disqualification of an employee or any person who lives or works on the premises where childcare is provided (see applying to waive disqualification)
  ‍

Serious injuries, accidents and illnesses, eyes-related conditions & substance or electricity-related injuries‍

Ofsted MUST be informed about any of the following (on-site events or when the children are in the nursery's care off-site; staff when on duty):

• anything that requires resuscitation
• admittance to hospital for more than 24 hours
• a broken bone or fracture
• dislocation of any major joint, such as the shoulder, knee, hip or elbow
• any loss of consciousness
• severe breathing difficulties, including asphyxia
• anything leading to hypothermia or heat-induced illness
• if a child suffers any loss of sight, whether it is temporary or permanent 
• penetrating injury to the child’s eye
• chemical or hot metal burn to the child’s eye
• If a child in our care suffers any injury from or requires medical treatment following the absorption of any substance:

  • by inhalation

  • by ingestion

  • through the skin
  • from an electric shock or electrical burn
• where there is reason to believe it resulted from exposure to:
  • a harmful substance
  • a biological agent
  • a toxin
  • an infected material

    ‍

Notifiable Diseases

‍List of Diseases notifiable to local authority proper officers, HSE and Ofsted:

• Acute encephalitis
• Acute infectious hepatitis
• Acute meningitis
• Acute poliomyelitis
• Anthrax
• Botulism
• Brucellosis
• Cholera
• Diphtheria
• Enteric fever (typhoid or paratyphoid fever)
• Food poisoning
• Haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS)
• Infectious bloody diarrhoea
• Invasive group A streptococcal disease
• Legionnaires’ disease
• Leprosy
• Malaria
• Measles
• Meningococcal septicaemia
• Monkeypox
• Mumps
• Plague
• Rabies
• Rubella
• Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)
• Scarlet fever
• Smallpox
• Tetanus
• Tuberculosis
• Typhus
• Viral haemorrhagic fever (VHF)
• Whooping cough
• Yellow fever

Report other diseases that may present a significant risk to human health under the category ‘other significant disease’.
‍

Registration Updates

Ofsted must be informed about updates to our registration, such as changes to our address, at enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk. 


‍

Changes in any of the Registered People 


Ofsted must be informed about changes to those responsible for the daycare organisation, such as the Nominated Individual.


‍

Guidance on how to Report a Serious Childcare Incident to Ofsted 


You can report the accident by calling 0300 123 1231 or report online using the designated 'Notification of Early Years Provision Incident' form on the Ofsted website. To complete the form or talk with an agent on the phone, you should know the reference number, childcare provider

address and all relevant details of the incident and those involved. 

‍

Who will  inform Ofsted, if necessary 


The Nursery Manager is responsible for notifying Ofsted when necessary at each MEplace site. This responsibility includes notifying Ofsted through a phone call (0300 123 1231) or by completing the online notification form. If the nursery manager is unavailable or unable to carry out the notification, then the Nominated Individual (Vlada Bell) will inform Ofsted. On such occasions, the Deputy Nursery Manager will be responsible for providing all of the necessary details and notes about the notification process.

‍

After you notify OFSTED about a significant event


Ofsted will carry out a risk assessment, looking at the information given and the details they already hold. This will help them to decide the appropriate action to take. OFSTED will take account of the sensitive and personal nature of certain information shared, and respond accordingly.

‍

OFSTED may:

• ‍‍contact the setting to discuss the information
• contact other agencies involved for more information
• consider if any new suitability checks are required
• carry out a telephone interview, regulatory visit or inspection
• if the information relates to another person, check whether they remain suitable to care for, or be in regular contact with, children; we may also need to contact that person directly to discuss this

Notifying Ofsted will not necessarily affect the nursery’s registration. But Ofsted can take action against the setting if the setting’s Manager does not inform Ofsted about these events.



The Early Years Inspection Handbook explains how significant events inform inspection (see ‘failure to notify Ofsted and/or meet conditions’). The Enforcement Policy sets out Ofsted’s approach to regulation and enforcement.

Events we do not need to tell Ofsted about:

• referrals made to other agencies following a concern about a child in our care, such as a child protection referral
• complaints about fee dispute
• changes to the health of managers, staff or volunteers in early years settings
• admissions to the hospital for routine operations or check-ups that do not affect the ability to care for children
• injury or illness suffered by a child in our care which does not meet the above criteria
• Minor injuries - We do not need to inform Ofsted about minor injuries, even if treated at a hospital (for less than 24 hours). These include:
• animal and insect bites, such as a bee sting that doesn’t cause an allergic reaction
• sprains, strains and bruising, for example, if a child sprains their wrist tripping over their shoelaces
• cuts and grazes
• minor burns and scalds
• dislocation of minor joints, such as a finger or toe
• wound infections

‍‍

How Ofsted uses information


To find out how Ofsted processes any personal data, read the early years privacy notice. 



‍

The legal framework


It is a legal requirement to notify Ofsted of significant events. This is set out in regulation 8 and paragraph 7 of the schedule to the Early Years Foundation Stage (Welfare Requirements) Regulations 2012 and the ‘Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework’, specifically paragraph 3.78 (Changes that must be notified to Ofsted – bullet point 3). The EYFS framework states that failure to notify Ofsted of significant events without a reasonable excuse is an offence.
‍

Relevant guidance can be found here. 

The Bribery Act 2010 creates an offence which can be committed by an organisation which fails to prevent persons associated with them from committing bribery on its behalf, but only if that person performs services for you in business. It is unlikely that the organisation will be liable for the actions of someone who simply supplies goods to you. There is full defence if it can be shown that there are adequate procedures and risk assessments in place to prevent bribery.

At MEplace, we have adopted this policy to ensure that we have adequate procedures in place that are proportionate to the bribery risks we face. It is our policy to conduct all of our business honestly and ethically. We take a zero-tolerance approach to bribery and corruption and are committed to acting professionally, fairly and with integrity in all our dealings wherever we operate. We are also committed to implementing and enforcing effective systems to counter bribery.

‍

What is a bribe?

A bribe is a financial or other advantage offered or given:

• To anyone to persuade them to or reward them for performing their duties
improperly
• To any public official to influence the official in the performance of his/her duties.

‍

Gifts and hospitality

A ‘gift’ is defined as any item, cash, goods, or any service which is offered for personal benefit at a cost that is less than its commercial value, or at no cost.
You should consider the following if a gift is offered:

• Whether it is appropriate to accept it
• Discuss the position with the manager

Parents may wish to thank nursery staff for looking after their children with Christmas gifts or gifts when the child moves on from a particular room or leaves the nursery. This is perfectly understandable. If in any doubt, staff should discuss this with the Nursery Manager.



MEplace staff must not accept gifts from service providers. This may be deemed as a bribe to maintain a contract. The nursery will remain transparent and open at all times.



All gifts received must be recorded in the central gift register by both the staff member receiving it and the parent giving it. Parents must complete the dedicated 'Parent Gift Declaration' form - a link can be found at the end of the policy - before presenting a gift to any staff member. Additionally, staff members must complete the 'Team Gift Acceptance' form - a link can be found at the end of the policy - whenever they receive a gift, without exceptions.

‍

Steps and Guidelines for Team Accepting Gifts from Parents 

Ensuring clarity in evaluating gifts and offers is vital in maintaining ethical standards within our early years setting. Below are concise steps to determine the appropriateness of gifts and offers.

‍

Step 1: Gift Evaluation


Value Check: If the value of the gift is below £50, proceed to the next step.
Group or Individual: If the gift is intended for a group, it is acceptable.

‍

Step 2: Individual Gifts


Favour Attached: If the gift is intended for an individual and comes with an attached favour, politely decline the offer.

‍

Step 3: Identifying Bribery


Bribe Assessment: If the gift appears to be a bribe or is linked to any action that compromises ethical standards, promptly disclose the situation to the Nursery Manager.

By adhering to these steps, teachers contribute to the maintenance of a transparent and ethical environment within our setting. These guidelines foster responsible decision-making and ensure consistent compliance with our established standards.
Restriction on teachers giving gifts to children or parents 

This restriction on teachers, preventing them from giving gifts to children or parents, reinforces our commitment to an impartial educational environment. While gifts from teachers to parents or children might seem harmless, they can inadvertently imply favouritism and erode trust. By forbidding such gifts, we ensure that each child's journey at MEplace Nursery is solely shaped by their individual qualities. This covers various gifts, erasing any ambiguity and emphasising equitable treatment. Furthermore, this policy safeguards teacher professionalism, upholding the teacher-student relationship based on trust, guidance, and learning.

‍

Non-Compliance and Consequences

Failure to adhere to the guidelines outlined in this Anti-Bribery Policy constitutes a breach of our commitment to ethical conduct and compliance. Any employee found in violation of this policy will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action, following established company procedures. This may include, but is not limited to, formal warnings, suspension, termination of employment, and legal action if deemed necessary. We are dedicated to upholding the integrity of our operations and ensuring that every team member contributes to the maintenance of our transparent and ethical working environment.

‍

Relevant Links 

Team - Gift Acceptance

MEbaby
MEbig

‍

Parents - Gift Declaration 

MEbaby
MEbig

Sharing information is an intrinsic part of our processes at MEplace. Information sharing helps to ensure that each child receives the right level of care at the right time and prevents a need from becoming more acute and difficult to meet.

We recognise that parents have a right to know that the information they share with us will be regarded as confidential, as well as to be informed about the circumstances when, and the reasons why, we are obliged to share information.


We are obliged to share confidential information without permission from the parent or guardian if:

• It is to prevent a crime from being committed or to intervene where one may have been, or to prevent harm to a child; or
• Not sharing it could be worse than the outcome of having shared it

In the event of the following, information must be shared with urgency to protect the well-being of the children involved:

• Where there is evidence that a child is suffering, or is at risk of suffering significant harm
• Where there is reasonable cause to believe that a child may be suffering, or is at risk of suffering, significant harm
• To prevent significant harm to children, including the prevention, detection and prosecution of serious crime

‍

Procedures

Our procedure is based on the seven golden rules of information sharing:

1. Remember that the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), Data Protection Act 2018 and human rights law are not barriers to justified information sharing, but provide a framework to ensure that personal information about living individuals is shared appropriately.
2. Be open and honest with the individual (and/or their family where appropriate) from the outset about why, what, how and with whom information will, or could be shared, and seek their agreement unless it is unsafe or inappropriate to do so.
3. Seek advice from other practitioners, or your information governance lead, if you are in any doubt about sharing the information concerned, without disclosing the identity of the individual where possible.
4. Where possible, share information with consent, and where possible, respect the wishes of those who do not consent to having their information shared. Under the GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018 you may share information without consent if, in your judgement, there is a lawful basis to do so, such as where safety may be at risk.
5. You will need to base your judgment on the facts of the case. When you are sharing or requesting personal information from someone, be clear about the basis upon which you are doing so. Where you do not have consent, be mindful that an individual might not expect information to be shared.Consider safety and well-being: base your information-sharing decisions on considerations of the safety and well-being of the individual and others who may be affected by their actions.
6. Necessary, proportionate, relevant, adequate, accurate, timely and secure: ensure that the information you share is necessary for the purpose for which you are sharing it, is shared only with those individuals who need to have it, is accurate and up to date, is shared promptly, and is shared securely (see principles below).
7. Keep a record of your decision and the reasons for it – whether it is to share information or not. If you decide to share, then record what you have shared, with whom and for what purpose.

The GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018 do not prevent, or limit, the sharing of information to keep children safe.

The principles set out below must be adhered to when sharing information. Staff must use their judgement when making decisions about what information to share, and must follow MEplace procedures or consult the nursery manager if in doubt.

The most important consideration is whether sharing information is likely to support the safeguarding and protection of a child.

‍
Necessary and proportionate 


When making decisions about what information to share, staff must consider how much information they need to release. Not sharing more data than is necessary to be of use is a key element of the GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018. Information must be proportionate to the need and level of risk.
‍

Relevant


Only information that is relevant to the purposes of sharing must be shared with those who need it. This allows others to do their job effectively and make informed decisions.

Adequate 
The information must be adequate for its purpose. Information must be of the right quality to ensure that it can be understood and relied upon.

‍

Accurate 


The information must be accurate and up-to-date and must clearly distinguish between fact and opinion. If the information is historical then this must be explained.

‍

Timely 


Information must be shared promptly to reduce the risk of missed opportunities to offer support and protection to a child. Timeliness is key in emergencies and it may not be appropriate to seek consent for information sharing if it could cause delays and therefore place a child at increased risk of harm. Staff must ensure that sufficient information is shared, as well as consider the urgency with which to share it.

‍

Secure 


Wherever possible, information must be shared in an appropriate, secure way.

‍

Recorded

Information-sharing decisions should be recorded, whether or not the decision is taken to share. If the decision is to share, reasons must be cited, including what information has been shared and with whom, in line with MEplace procedures. If the decision is not to share, it must be recorded including the reasons for this decision. In line with MEplace’s record retention policy, the information should not be kept any longer than is necessary. In some rare circumstances, this may be indefinitely.

Partnership with parents‍

‍

‍Consent


The information parents share is regarded as confidential. Our policies and procedures set out our responsibility regarding gaining consent to share information and when it will be shared without permission to protect a child.
We ask parents to give written consent to share information about any additional needs their child may have, or to pass on child development summaries to the next provider/school. 


We consider the following questions when we need to share information

Is there a legitimate purpose for sharing the information?
Does the information enable the person to be identified?
Is the information confidential?
If the information is confidential, do we have consent to share it?
Is there a statutory duty or court order requiring us to share the information?
If consent is refused, or there are good reasons for us not to seek consent, is there sufficient public interest for us to share information?
If the decision is to share, are we sharing the right information in the right way?
Have we properly recorded our decision?

‍

Consent must be informed. ‍

The person giving consent needs to understand why information will be shared, what will be shared, who will see information, the purpose of sharing it and the implications for them of sharing that information.

For separated parents, consent to share information will need to be provided by one parent. Where parents are separated, this would normally be the parent whom the child lives with.

At MEplace we are committed to the safety and well-being of all children within our care. Please also see our Safeguarding Children and Child Protection Policy for more information.

Definitions

An accident is an unfortunate event or occurrence that happens unexpectedly, typically resulting in an injury, for example, tripping over and hurting your knee.

An incident is an event or occurrence that is caused to another person, typically resulting in an injury, for example, being pushed over and hurting your knee. When a child comes into the nursery with an injury sustained at home, an incident form must also be created when the child enters the nursery.

This policy aims to ensure that when an accident or incident occurs involving a child at MEplace (whether inside or outside the nursery), appropriate action is taken, and accurate information is recorded and communicated.

Each accident requires a different reaction, as children respond differently. We have guidelines in place to ensure accidents and injuries are dealt with appropriately and swiftly. All team members are required to complete first-aid training by the end of their probationary period. 

Accidents can happen anywhere and at any time; to ensure our nursery is a safe environment, all measures will be taken to protect your child. The safety of your child is paramount. All parents will need to consent to MEplace administering basic first-aid in the event of an accident.

In the case of a head injury, the child’s parents must be informed via a phone call detailing what happened and how it happened, before the completion of the accident form. Parents need to be informed of more major injuries too, as well as biting incidents, for which an explanation will be offered and the next steps will be agreed upon to prevent the accident from happening again.

‍

When an accident occurs in the nursery:

• A member of staff will attend to the child and administer appropriate basic first-aid while making sure to reassure and comfort the child.
• First-aid will be administered wearing disposable gloves and only using materials from the first-aid box. There is a first-aid box located in each room and near all fire exits. There are separate first-aid boxes for outings.
• The child will be closely monitored to spot signs of concussion or shock.
• Where a minor accident or injury occurs, while administering first-aid, the child's parents will be informed of the accident through an accident form on the Famly App.
• If a major accident happens which requires medical attention, we will call the ambulance immediately. The child’s key person will accompany the child and remain present until the child’s parents have arrived.
• Whenever a child is taken from the nursery to the hospital by a member of staff or a parent, a senior member of staff (who remains at the nursery) must inform the head office immediately. We will also inform Ofsted of the incident.
• All accidents and incidents must be recorded on Famly.
• If it is a head injury,  the child’s parents must be informed via a phone call detailing what happened and how it happened, before the completion of the accident form. Parents need to be informed of more major injuries too, as well as biting incidents, for which an explanation will be offered and the next steps will be agreed upon to prevent the accident form happening again. For head injuries, the child involved will wear a sticker reading ‘I bumped my head’ for the rest of the day, so all staff members can closely observe the child for the rest of the day.
• The Manager is required to notify HQ by calling whenever a major or head accident occurs.

‍

When a child comes into the nursery with an injury sustained at home:

• We will ensure appropriate information is obtained to support a child protection case if the need to make a referral to the children’s social services department becomes necessary.
• If we suspect the injuries have been caused by physical harm, we are legally required to inform the designated safeguarding lead immediately.
• When a child arrives with an injury, it is essential to promptly ask the parents or guardians about the incident at the door. If the parents do not disclose the information timely, we must contact them immediately upon discovering the injury and complete the incident form without delay.
• If the child is involved in an accident or incident outside the nursery (e.g. during the weekend) and arrives in the nursery with physical evidence of it (e.g. broken arm or bruise) the nursery teachers will record an incident report and ensure that parents acknowledge it. 

‍

After every accident, however minor:

• An accident report will be completed, signed, and witnessed, on the same day. This will be done on Famly; if a device is not available this will be done using the hard copies in the first-aid box. If the report is made in hard copy, it will be filed in the accident folder and updated in Famly as soon as possible.
• The parent/guardian is asked to acknowledge the accident report and will receive a copy once the form is submitted on Famly. 
• Accidents are logged and evaluated at the end of each month by the Nursery Manager.
• At the end of each month, the Manager will download all accident/incident reports for the month to find common themes and create action points to further reduce the number and severity of the accidents. 

‍

If the accident requires any medical treatment:

• We inform Ofsted immediately – or at least within 14 days (under Standard 14.3 Children Act regulation, inform Ofsted about any significant events)
• We inform our Insurance Company
• We inform RIDDOR: this can be done online (https://www.hse.gov.uk/riddor/report.htm) or by phone in the case of a fatal incident (0345 300 9923)
• The Nursery Manager will be responsible for reporting these incidents. If the Nursery Manager is unavailable, the Deputy will be responsible for reporting.

‍

In the case of a head injury:

• Comfort, calm and reassure the child
• Assess the child’s condition to ascertain if a hospital or ambulance is required. We will follow our procedures if this is required (see below)
• If the skin is not broken we will administer a cold compress for short periods 
• If the skin is broken then we will follow our first-aid training and stem the bleeding
• Call the parent and make them aware of the injury and if they need to collect their child
• Complete the accident form accurately and promptly
• Keep the child in a calm and quiet area whilst awaiting collection, where applicable
• We will continue to monitor the child and follow the advice on the NHS website for all head injuries https://www.nhs.uk/condi)ons/minor-head-injury/
• For major head injuries, we will follow our paediatric first-aid training.

We follow the guidelines of the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases, and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR), the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) and the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) for the reporting of accidents and incidents.

‍

Transporting Children to Hospital Procedure

The Nursery Manager must:

• Call for an ambulance immediately if the injury is severe. We will not attempt to transport the injured child in our vehicles
• Whilst waiting for the ambulance, contact the parents and arrange to meet them at the hospital
• Arrange for the most appropriate member of staff to accompany the child, taking with them any relevant resources such as registration forms, relevant medication and the child’s comforter
• Redeploy staff if necessary to ensure there is adequate staff deployment to care for the remaining children. This may mean temporarily grouping the children together
• Inform a member of the management team immediately
• Remain calm at all times. Children who witness an incident may well be affected by it and may need lots of cuddles and reassurance. Staff may also require additional support following the accident.

‍

First-aid training 

At MEplace, teachers receive paediatric first-aid training. First-aid boxes are dotted around the nursery and visibly labelled with up-to-date essentials.

‍

First-aid boxes

The locations of the first-aid boxes are outlined in the Nursery Factsheet (for more information relating to your nursery site, please see the Factsheet which is displayed at the site entrance).

First-aid boxes are accessible at all times with appropriate content for use with children.

The appointed person responsible for checking the contents of the first-aid boxes regularly is the Nursery Coordinator (outlined in the Nursery Factsheet - for more information relating to your nursery site, please see the Factsheet which is displayed at the site entrance). The NC regularly replaces items that have been used or are out of date.

The staff first-aid box is kept in the staff room. This is kept out of reach of the children.

First-aid boxes should only contain items permitted by the Health and Safety (first-aid) Regulations Act 1981, such as sterile dressings, bandages and eye pads. No other medical items (such as paracetamol) should be kept in them.

‍

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

The nursery provides staff with PPE according to the need of the task or activity. Staff must wear PPE to protect themselves and the children during tasks that involve contact with bodily fluids. Staff are consulted when procuring PPE to ensure all allergies and individual needs are supported, and this is evaluated on an ongoing basis.

‍

Medical Information

Room Leaders are responsible for making sure that all medical information and emergency contact details on the children’s documents/files are up to date and accurate.‍

‍

Injury Assessment 

When an accident occurs, it is the responsibility of the nursery manager to determine whether the injury can be dealt with in the nursery or if medical assistance is required.

‍

Biting Incidents 

At MEplace, we promote positive behaviour at all times. We understand that children may use certain behaviours, such as biting, to communicate their feelings and needs. Biting is a common type of behaviour that some children use to make sense of the world around them and to manage interactions with others. It can be triggered when they do not have the words to communicate their anger, frustration or need. It can also be used to fulfil an oral stimulation need, such as during periods of teething or developmental exploration. Sometimes biting can be due to a special educational need and/or disability.

The nursery uses the following strategies to help prevent biting:

• Individual, one-to-one and small group times so that each child is receiving positive attention
• Quiet and cosy areas for children who are feeling overwhelmed to go to
• Stories, puppets and discussions about emotions and feelings, including activities and stories that help support children to recognise feelings and empathise with characters and events
• Additional resources for children who have oral stimulation needs, such as teething rings or chew necklaces
• Vigilant staff who know the children well and can identify when children need more stimulation or quiet times
• Providing adequate resources; where possible, more than one resource or toy is sought to minimise conflicts.

Every child is treated as an individual, and we work with families to support all children’s individual needs. With this in mind, it will be necessary to implement different strategies depending on the needs of the child carrying out the biting.

‍

In the event of a child being bitten, we use the following procedures, the most relevant staff member(s) will:

• Comfort any child who has been bitten and check for any visible injury. 
• Administer any paediatric first aid where necessary and complete an accident form once the child is settled again. The parents must be informed via telephone. Staff will continue to observe the bitten area for signs of infection. For confidentiality purposes and possible conflict, we do not disclose to the parents the name of the child who has caused the bite.
• Tell the child who has caused the bite, in terms they understand, that biting (the behaviour and not the child) is unkind, and show the child that it makes staff and the child who has been bitten sad.
• Complete an incident form for the child who caused the bite and an accident form for the child who received the bite and share it with the parents at the end of the child’s session.
• If a child continues to bite, carry out observations to try to distinguish a cause. These will then be communicated on the notes section of the child’s profile including what the child was doing before the biting incident, how the biting incident happened, the time and how the team handled the biting incident. These notes need to be visible to parents. If needed, arrange for a meeting with the child’s parents to develop strategies to prevent ongoing biting behaviour. Parents will be reassured that it is sometimes part of a child’s development and not made to feel that it is their fault.
• In the event of a bite breaking the skin, to reduce the risk of infection from bacteria, give prompt treatment to both the child who has been bitten and the child who has been bitten.
• If a child or member of staff sustains a bite wound where the skin has been severely broken, arrange for urgent medical attention after initial first-aid has been carried out. Parents are to be contacted via a phone call to collect the child and arrange for medical attention within the day. 

At MEplace, we prioritise the good health of all children in our care, including their oral health. We adhere to the Early Years Foundation Stage guidelines and stay up to date with current advice from the NHS to ensure the well-being of our children. Our policies and procedures are designed to promote a healthy environment and minimise the spread of illness.

‍

Medication Administration

1. Medicine will only be administered once the medication form has been completed (please find the relevant links at the end of this policy), indicating parental consent.
2. Staff members are trained to administer medication safely. All staff, with valid First Aid training, have been trained to administer medication.
3. Medicine must be provided in its original container, within the use-by-date, and with instructions in English.
4. Medicine provided by parents must be clearly labelled with the child's full name.
5. Medication will be stored in its original container, in a locked compartment away from children, following the product instructions.
6. Medication is administered to the child by a team member with a valid first aid certificate and with another team member present as a witness
7. Once the medication is administered, the team member who administered it needs to fill out the Medication Administration Form on Famly, including relevant details such as medication type, dosage, date, and time. This information must be acknowledged by the parents via the Famly app.

‍

Temperature Monitoring

We monitor children’s temperatures using a digital thermometer and an ear thermometer. Each nursery site is equipped with disposable covers that are discarded after each use. We take four readings at 5-minute intervals to determine the average; this is recorded on the child’s profile on Famly (Room Overview, Status for Child, Temperature Check) every time it is taken. If the temperature of the child continues to increase or remains high, we will call the parents to pick up their child as soon as possible. If the child shows a temperature of 38.0 or above after the first reading, we will call the parents immediately. 

‍‍

Homoeopathic Medication

‍Homoeopathic medication will only be administered with prior written parental consent and written instructions from a licensed Homoeopath.

‍

Antibiotics

If a child is on antibiotics, they must remain at home for the first 24 hours, unless it is part of an ongoing care plan for a non-contagious medical condition.

‍

Parent Notification and Pick-Up

1. If a parent is informed during the day that their child is too sick to attend nursery, they must make suitable arrangements to pick up the child as soon as practically possible, but no later than within two hours.
2. If a child is sent home unwell, they must remain at home for at least 24 hours, including the following day, to allow for a full recovery.

‍

Illness and Contagious Diseases

1. Parents must inform the nursery if their child is unwell and on medication.
2. We promote good health by asking parents to keep unwell children at home.
3. Staff and visitors who are unwell are asked not to attend the setting.
4. We will not admit any child who appears to have a contagious disease or is showing signs of illness.

‍

Procedures

1. If a child becomes ill during the nursery day, we call their parent(s) to pick them up as soon as possible. The child is cared for in a quiet, calm area with their key person.
2. Children with infectious diseases, such as sickness and diarrhoea, must not return to the nursery until they have been clear for at least 48 hours.
3. Parents are informed if a contagious infection is identified in the nursery. 
4. Any food poisoning affecting two or more children on the premises is promptly reported to Ofsted.
5. Children on long-term medication will have a medical plan (also called an Individual Health Care Plan, or IHCP) to ensure staff have sufficient information to care for the child. The IHCP is regularly reviewed every four months by the Nursery Manager.

‍

Calpol (or any other pain/fever relief) Administration 

If a child displays a high temperature, they must remain home for 24 hours.

If a parent has administered Calpol or any other type of pain/fever relief to their child, the child should not attend MEplace for 24 hours from the time when the medicine was ingested.

This is because this type of medication can mask the effects of illnesses which could then be passed on to other children.

If Calpol is given on 3 consecutive days, the child will not be able to return to the nursery until they have been seen by a GP. The 3 days include any days when a child is not at the nursery. Please note, as per the label on the bottle, Calpol must not be given to a child for more than 3 days.

‍

Relevant Links

‍MEbaby Caterpillars Medication Form ‍

MEbig Dinosaurs Medication Form 

MEbig Butterflies Medication Form

List of Infectious Diseases and Exclusion Periods - (These apply for team and children)

There may be instances where a child under our care requires medication. Parents/guardians must inform the staff by completing the Medication Form (please find relevant links at the end of this policy) when a child needs medication while attending the setting.

If a child requires medicine while under the care of MEplace, we will familiarise ourselves with the child’s needs and will ensure this information is kept up-to-date.

Strict guidelines are followed when dealing with medication of any kind in the nursery.

‍

Medication Administration

Medication will be administered by a first-aid-trained and fully qualified member of staff. Medicine will be administered from its original packaging with written consent from parents/guardians.

When medication is administered to a child, this should be logged on their profile on the Famly app and made visible to the child’s parents.

Prescription medication will only be administered if it has been prescribed by a doctor for the particular child.

Non-prescribed medications, such as Calpol, should not be stored within children’s bags. Non-prescription medication will not be administered. 

Children must only be given medication which has been prescribed and handed over to the teacher by the parents with written instructions in English.

If a child receives medication at home but it is not required to be administered during nursery working hours, parents must inform the team via the Medication Form (please find the relevant links at the end of this policy) and indicate that the medication will be administered at home. This is to ensure team members can be aware of any potential side effects the child might have while at nursery; otherwise, any side effects from medication will be treated as per our usual Sickness and Illness policy.

Upon medication administration by a first-aid-trained MEplace Employee, the parents of the child will receive a notification on Famly. Parents are required to acknowledge the administration of medication within a 24-hour time frame.

‍

Medication Storage

All medication for children must have the child’s name clearly written on the original container from the pharmacy or GP and must be kept in a closed box, which is out of reach of all children. Emergency medication, such as inhalers and EpiPens, will be within easy reach of staff in case of an immediate need but will remain out of children’s reach. Any antibiotics requiring refrigeration must be kept in a fridge inaccessible to children for medical requirements. For all other prescribed medications, we will follow the storage guidelines on the packaging.

All medications must be in their original containers; labels must be legible and not tampered with, or medication will not be administered. All prescription medications should have the pharmacist’s details and notes attached to show the dosage needed and the date the prescription was issued. This will all be checked, along with expiry dates, before staff agree to administer medication.

Medication stored in the setting for children with an Individual Health Care Plan will be checked monthly by the Nursery Manager. The Manager will also check with the parents on a termly basis to ensure that the medication continues to be required, along with verifying that the details on the medication form remain current.

‍

Relevant Links ‍

MEbaby Caterpillars Medication Form 

MEbig Dinosaurs Medication Form 

MEbig Butterflies Medication Form 

At MEplace, we are committed to promoting the health and well-being of all children within our care. We ensure children with medical conditions are fully supported. Medicine will only be administered with parental consent once the Medication Form has been completed (please see relevant links at the end of this policy).

An Individual Health Care Plan (IHCP) will also be created by the Nursery Manager in collaboration with the parents to support children with medical conditions. All staff members will be notified to familiarise themselves with the Individual Health Care Plan for all children with medical conditions.

Parents MUST inform the Nursery Manager of any changes in the child’s medical conditions or if their child has developed one.

‍

Roles and Responsibilities

Nursery Manager

The nursery manager must:

• Ensure all staff comply with this policy.
• Oversee the development of IHCPs for children with medical needs by the Room Leader.
• Create new IHCPs as needed in collaboration with parents and doctors/nurses. 
• Ensure risk assessments are in place for all children with medical needs.
• Ensure all teachers in the location and the child’s key person are aware of the child’s medical condition.
• Carry out monthly checks to ensure Famly profiles under the Health Section are up to date with the latest and most relevant information.
  
  

Staff

All staff members:

• Are trained to administer medication to meet each child's individual needs.
• Must follow IHCP procedures for children with medical needs.
• Must maintain accurate records and report any incidents where medication is not administered (e.g. duration and type of epileptic seizures) on the child’s Famly profile notes.
• Must give the correct dosage and follow the instructions on the packaging when administering medication.
• Understand and adhere to the safe storage of medication.
• Must respond promptly to children with medical conditions in need of help and follow emergency procedures outlined in their IHCP.
• Must conduct monthly checks to ensure that they are familiar with all the information in the Health Information section on Famly for the children in their group.
  
  

Parents

Parents must:

• Complete the Health Information section as part of the registration process.
• Provide the nursery with information on any changes to their child’s medical needs, communicating these directly with the Nursery Manager.
• Renew expired medication.
• Collect and dispose of used medication.
• Be involved in the development of their child’s IHCP.
• Comply with the requirements of this policy.
  
  

Outings

As part of the planning process when preparing for a nursery outing, arrangements must be included to administer medication to children with medical needs. Children with medical needs must not be excluded from taking part in nursery outings unless advice by a GP states otherwise. Staff must consider how the medical needs of children will impact their participation. The nursery will make reasonable adjustments to allow children with medical needs to participate fully in nursery outings.

‍

Individual Health Care Plans (IHCPs)

Children with medical needs will require an Individual Health Care Plan. This must be reviewed every 4 months or as needed, to meet the needs of each child.

An IHCP must include the following:

• The child's name and date of birth.
• Contact details of the child's GP.
• The child’s medical condition; treatment; any symptoms; and triggers.
• The child’s medication and dosage.
• Dietary requirements and allergies.
• Who will support the child; their responsibilities, evidence of their competency and cover arrangements.
• Details of the type of support required to meet the child’s needs.
• Information on what to do in an emergency, including who to contact.
• Details of: Which nursery staff need to be aware of the child’s condition and the support required; arrangements required for nursery outings; and what steps to take if a child refuses medication.

For children with SEND, it will include their special educational needs and disabilities.

Parents who are joining the nursery with a child who has medical needs, or parents whose child already attends but develops a medical condition, will be invited to an initial meeting with the nursery manager. During this meeting, parents have the opportunity to share all relevant information about the child's medical condition with the nursery manager.

Once the plan is ready, within three working days and before the child attends the nursery again or for the first time, the nursery manager will share the draft of the Individual Health Care Plan with the parents for approval before it is shared with the entire setting.

A child with a medical condition and without an Individual Health Care Plan must not attend until the plan is in place and the nursery manager confirms that the team is aware of the plan and the steps to take in an emergency.

The Room Leader is responsible for reviewing the Individual Health Care Plan every 4 months if no changes occur. If parents inform the Nursery Manager of any changes in the child's medical condition, the Room Leader must make the necessary adjustments and communicate the changes to the team within 2 working days. The Nursery Manager must then inform the entire setting about the changes.

‍

Emergencies

In the event of an emergency, each child's IHCP will contain details of actions to take. If a child needs to be taken to the hospital, the ambulance will be called, and the child's parents will be informed by the Nursery Manager. The child's key person will accompany the child to the hospital and stay with the child until the child's parents arrive.

‍

Relevant Links

‍MEbaby Caterpillars Medication Form 

MEbig Dinosaurs Medication Form 

MEbig Butterflies Medication Form 

At MEplace, we do our best to ensure the safety and wellbeing of children, nursery staff and others on the premises. In the event of an emergency, we have an evacuation procedure in place to enable a swift and efficient response:

• In the event of a fire, do not attempt to put it out yourself. Lead the children to the nearest fire exit to evacuate the building
• The designated fire marshal is responsible for all matters relating to fire safety
• Fire exits are marked clearly, and fire evacuation procedures are displayed in all rooms
• Room Leaders and Deputies will be responsible for taking the nursery tablet/phone, which grants access to the register and parent contact details. The evacuation bag should also be collected by the Room Leaders and Deputies. 
• Parents and guardians are obliged to follow this procedure in the event of a fire. We require all parents and guardians to follow any instructions given by the Nursery Manager
• Quarterly fire drills will be carried out and documented within the fire log Monday schedule. The fire marshal will notify all staff ahead of time, so you are aware that this is a drill. Once a year a fire drill will take place without warning. All fire drills and fire incidents will be logged in the Fire Safety Monday Board, including any additional relevant notes and actions to be taken.
• Fire alarms will be tested weekly on Friday morning to ensure the alarms are in good working condition. These tests will be recorded in the fire logbook by the fire marshal.
• Fire extinguishers, detection systems, and emergency lighting will be tested regularly by the fire marshal.
• All staff receive fire safety training by the end of their probationary period and are required to know where the fire appliances are kept and ensure escape routes are kept clear at all times
• Guidelines on fire procedures are outlined next to each fire exit

‍

If you discover a fire

• Alert all staff and children by pressing the manual call point (red break glass).
• Calmly call children in your care together
• Evacuate efficiently and swiftly (ensuring all occupants are accounted for) away from the fire via the nearest and safest escape
• Tackle the fire if you have been suitably trained (provided it is no bigger than an office bin) and if it is safe to do so and does not impede or compromise your safe evacuation
• Close all doors behind you
• The Nursery Manager must ensure everyone is accounted for and has assembled at the assembly point (outlined in the Nursery Factsheet - for more information relating to your nursery site, please see the Factsheet which is displayed at the site entrance)
• The fire marshal must dial 999 and request fire brigade assistance

‍

On hearing the fire alarm

• Calmly call children in your care together
• Visually check the space around you is empty
• Leave the building via the nearest, safe emergency exit
• Count the children in your care and alert the Nursery Manager if any are missing
• Remain outside the building until the Nursery Manager deems the nursery safe

‍

Nursery Manager

• Assign the management of the children in your care to another member of staff
• Collect the registers and visitors in the building, and contact information
• Sweep through the building to check for children or visitors left behind
• Ensure that the fire brigade has been alerted
• Remain outside of the building until a member of the fire authority deems it safe to return

‍

Staff fire safety training

Staff induction training covers training on the evacuation plan and practice fire drills. We have regular fire safety training on:

• Where fire extinguishers are located, the selection, and their basic use. (If you are key personnel you should be shown how to operate the extinguisher with fire science and classes of fire)
• Escape routes and their locations
• Fire warden's roles and responsibilities
• Fire policy and procedures
• Fire management plan
• The assembly point

‍

Fire Marshal

The Fire Marshal for each site will be the Nursery Coordinator (outlined in the Nursery Factsheet - for more information relating to your nursery site, please see the Factsheet which is displayed at the site entrance). They will liaise with the fire authorities on their arrival and provide the following information:

• Location of fire or incident.
• Any flammable liquids or gases (dangerous substances including asbestos).
• Individuals at risk.
• Individuals that have been accounted for and not accounted for.
• Location of dangerous/hazardous substances present.

‍

Procedures to be followed in the event of a fire or emergency

1. When the fire alarm goes off, staff will collect all children and lead them out of the building through the nearest fire exit to the assembly point
2. Room Leaders must do a headcount of children in their group and the Nursery Manager must do a headcount of the entire nursery, including children, teachers, visitors
3. The Nursery Manager will call the emergency services (999) using the nursery mobile phone or the nearest phone booth once the building has been evacuated.
4. Once children are in the safe zone and counted, the Deputies and Room Leaders must contact the parents
5. The Nursery Manager or Deputy will do a final check to make sure no one is left behind
6. If a child is missing, we will inform the police immediately and provide a description of the child. We will continue to search the areas and inform the child's parents as soon as reasonably practical to do so. We will record details of the event in the incident book and ask parents to sign.
7. The emergency services will inform the Nursery Manager when it is safe to re-enter the building
8. Where it is not safe to return to the building, children will be taken to the designated area where they will be kept warm and dry until parents and guardians arrive
9. Room Leaders and Deputies must contact parents and guardians
10. The Nursery Manager will inform parents and guardians of the pickup location
11. If the nursery building and the surroundings remain unsafe, we will guide the children to our local Safe Space (outlined in the Nursery Factsheet - for more information relating to your nursery site, please see the Factsheet which is displayed at the site entrance) so the children can be picked up.

At MEplace, we take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of children, staff and others on the nursery premises in the case of a fire or other emergency through our Fire Safety policy and emergency evacuation procedures.

The designated fire marshal is specified in the Nursery Factsheet - for more information relating to your nursery site, please see the Factsheet which is displayed at the site entrance. 

We ensure the nursery premises are compliant with fire safety regulations, including following any major changes or alterations to the premises. The fire marshal ensures that all the appropriate fire detection and control equipment (fire alarms, automatic smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers) is in working order and seeks advice from the local fire safety officer as necessary.

All staff receive regular fire safety and evacuation training (including as part of induction) to help them understand their roles and responsibilities. This includes the steps they must take to ensure the safety of children, for example keeping fire doors free from obstruction; how to safely evacuate the children; and where the evacuation meeting point is situated. Each room has a specific evacuation plan, which includes information such as evacuating non-mobile babies and using alternative exits depending on where the fire may be situated.

The fire marshal checks fire detection control equipment and fire exits in line with the timescales within the checklist below:

• Weekly Fire Alarm Test
• Bi-annual Fire Service Check 
• Weekly Fire Equipment (Extinguisher) Check 
• Monthly Fire Emergency Lighting Test

‍

Registration

An accurate record of all staff and children present in the building must be kept at all times with children and staff marked in and out on arrival and departure. An accurate record of visitors is kept in the visitors’ log. These records are taken out along with the register and emergency contacts list in the event of a fire.

‍

No Smoking/Vaping Policy

The nursery operates a strict no-smoking/vaping policy – please see the Smoking Policy for details.

‍

Fire Drill Procedure

On discovering a fire:

• Calmly raise the alarm by breaking the alarm glass
• Immediately evacuate the building under guidance from the fire
  marshal (collecting devices, where applicable)
• Using the nearest accessible exit, lead the children out and assemble at the fire assembly point location - specified in the Site Factsheet (for more information relating to your nursery site, please see the Factsheet which is displayed at the site entrance)
• Close all doors and windows behind you wherever possible
• Do not stop to collect personal belongings on evacuating the building
• Do not attempt to go back in and fight the fire
• Do not attempt to go back in if any children or adults are not accounted for
• Wait for the emergency services and report any unaccounted persons to the fire service and/or police.

‍

If you are unable to evacuate safely:

• Stay where you are safe
• Keep the children calm and together
• Wherever possible, alert the manager of your location and the identity of the children and other adults with you.
  

The Manager is to:

• Collect a device to gain access to the central children’s register.
• Collect the staff register, Nursery Manager phone, keys and visitor book. In the fire assembly point area, check the children against the register and do a headcount.
• Account for all adults (staff and visitors).

‍

The Room Leader and deputies are to:

• Take the nursery tablet/phone, which grants access to the register and parent contact details.
• Collect the evacuation bag.

‍

The Fire Marshal is to:

• Telephone the emergency services: dial 999 and ask for the fire service.
• Liaise with the fire authorities on their arrival and provide the relevant information, including anyone missing and possible locations, and respond to any other questions they may have (please see the Emergency Evacuation Plan for further details).

Remember:

• Do not stop to collect personal belongings on evacuating the building
• Do not attempt to go back in and fight the fire
• Do not attempt to go back in if any children or adults are not accounted for.

At MEplace, we ensure the nursery is a safe environment for children, parents, staff, and visitors. In the event of a potential threat to the immediate welfare of either children, parents, staff, or visitors, we will follow the procedures outlined below:

• The nursery manager will call the emergency services immediately
• The nursery manager or deputy manager will alert staff of the lockdown by shouting the word ‘Lockdown’ to ensure everyone will hear this.

‍

The manager is to control the lockdown. All staff and children are to remain and or proceed indoors and follow lockdown procedures:

1. If staff and children are outside, once alerted of the lockdown, staff must quickly gather the children and go inside, taking the nursery devices. 
2. All staff and children must gather in the Lockdown Room (outlined in the Nursery Factsheet - for more information relating to your nursery site, please see the Factsheet which is displayed at the site entrance), taking registers, the nursery mobile phone and contact numbers with them (on Famly). 
3. Room leaders of each class are responsible for checking that all children are accounted for. 
4. The Manager and Deputy will ensure that all external doors are locked.
5. Once everyone is inside the lockdown room, lock all doors, turn off all lights, close all windows and pull down the blinds.
6. Keep all children inside the Lockdown Room and keep them as calm and quiet as possible; stay away from windows and doors.
7. Do not attempt to interact with the perpetrator/s.

‍

If danger enters the building:

• Try to leave the building with the children at the nearest possible exit - please refer to the Emergency Evacuation Plan for full details.
• Follow directions from the nursery manager from the emergency services.
• An “All Clear” announcement will end the lockdown.
• If a safeguarding issue arises from the situation, then follow the guidelines from the police and the Local Authority.

‍‍

It is critical to reassure the children at all stages to avoid undue stress. Children must remain under the supervision of staff at all times.

The nursery manager will notify parents as soon as possible after the lockdown. The premises will be checked by the nursery manager or senior teacher after the “All Clear” announcement to make sure it is safe to re-enter the building.

If children are on an outing during a lockdown procedure, the accompanying staff must be informed by the nursery manager. They are not to go back to the nursery until they are informed that everything is safe. They will retreat to our Safe Space (outlined in the Nursery Factsheet - for more information relating to your nursery site, please see the Factsheet, which is displayed at the site entrance). Parents can come and pick up their children from there.

At MEplace, we prioritise the health, safety, and welfare of the children in our care by implementing a comprehensive Critical Incident Policy. This policy enables us to effectively respond to various critical incidents that may occur, ensuring the continuity of operations and the wellbeing of all stakeholders. 

These incidents include but are not limited to: floods, fires, burglaries, abductions or threatened abductions, bomb threats or terrorism attacks, national outbreaks of infection or health pandemics and any other incident that may impact the care of the children in the nursery.

‍

Floods

We cannot anticipate adverse weather conditions, but we maintain regular maintenance and checks of our water and heating systems to minimise the risk of flooding. If flooding occurs during nursery hours, the severity and location will determine the appropriate response, which may include following the fire evacuation procedure outlined in the Emergency Evacuation Plan and the Fire Safety Policy.

‍

Fire

Please refer to the Fire Safety Policy for detailed information on our procedures regarding fires and fire evacuations.

‍

Burglary

We have robust security measures in place, including a lockdown procedure (outlined in the Lockdown Policy) and regular checks of the premises. In the event of a burglary, the nursery manager will follow specific procedures, which include notifying the authorities, ensuring the safety of children and staff, and providing assistance with police inquiries. Temporary closure or relocation may be necessary, depending on the situation.

‍

Abduction or Threatened Abduction of a Child

We maintain strict safety procedures to prevent unauthorised individuals from entering the premises and to ensure children's safety. Vigilance and immediate reporting of suspicious behaviour are practised by staff. Parents are regularly reminded not to allow entry to anyone, known or unknown, and to always close the door behind them. The release of children is strictly controlled, following designated procedures outlined in the Unfamiliar Person to Collect Child Policy. Any witnessed or potential abduction triggers immediate actions, including contacting the authorities, securing children's safety, and cooperating with the police investigation. The nursery remains neutral in custody matters but will follow any court orders presented. Support and reassurance are provided to all affected parties.

‍

Bomb Threat/Terrorism Attack

In the event of a bomb threat or terrorism attack threat received at the nursery, we will promptly record all details. The Nursery Manager will notify emergency services, and follow the fire evacuation procedure alongside guidance from the authorities to ensure the safety of everyone present. Support and reassurance will be provided to children, parents, carers, and staff as needed.

‍

Other Significant Incidents

All incidents are managed by the nursery manager, who coordinates with emergency services when necessary. The fire evacuation procedure is followed for emergency evacuations, and individual incidents, such as a water supply interruption, are handled on a case-by-case basis to ensure the safety, health, and welfare of children and staff.

‍

National Outbreaks of Infection and/or Health Pandemics

During national outbreaks, we closely follow government health advice, legal guidelines, and insurance provider recommendations. The nursery remains open as long as sufficient staff are available. Measures are implemented based on the nature of the pandemic, which may involve excluding infected individuals from the premises for a specified period to prevent the spread of infection. Decisions are made in consultation with parents, staff, legal advice, and our insurance provider, with each case being reviewed individually.

‍

Ofsted will be notified of any critical incidents, as outlined in our Notifying Ofsted Policy.

This policy ensures our readiness and responsiveness to critical incidents while prioritising the well-being of children, staff, and parents. In all critical situations, the Nursery Manager takes action and provides instructions to the entire team. The nursery manager makes the necessary arrangements to notify parents as soon as possible, either through a telephone call or a post on Famly. 

At MEplace we are committed to taking all necessary steps to keep children safe and well. This includes making sure that children are not exposed to adults who may be under the influence of alcohol or other substances that may affect their ability to care for them.

This policAt MEplace we are committed to taking all necessary steps to keep children safe and well. This includes making sure that children are not exposed to adults who may be under the influence of alcohol or other substances that may affect their ability to care for them.

This policy is in line with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and The Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. This should be read in conjunction with the Safeguarding Children and Child Protection Policy and disciplinary procedure. 

‍

Alcohol

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, companies have a legal requirement to provide a safe working environment for all of their employees.

Anyone who arrives at the nursery clearly under the influence of alcohol will be asked to leave. If they are a member of staff, the nursery will investigate the matter and will initiate the Disciplinary procedure, as a result of which action may be taken, including dismissal. It is possible to still be under the influence of alcohol the following day and staff should be aware of this, ensuring this is not the case when starting work.

If they are a parent, the nursery manager and/or designated safeguarding lead will judge if the parent is suitable to care for the child. This may involve calling the second contact on the child’s Famly Contact List to collect them. If a child is thought to be at risk, the nursery will follow the Safeguarding Children and Child Protection procedures.

If anyone arrives at the nursery in control of a car while under the influence of alcohol, the police will be contacted.

Staff, students, parents, carers, visitors, contractors etc. must not bring alcohol onto the nursery premises.

‍

Substance Misuse

Anyone who arrives at the nursery under the influence of illegal drugs, or any other substance including medication, that affects their ability to care for children, will be asked to leave the premises immediately.

If they are a member of staff, an investigation will follow which may lead to consideration of disciplinary action, as a result of which dismissal could follow.

If they are a parent, the nursery manager will judge if the parent is suitable to care for the child. This may involve calling the second contact on the Famly Contact List to collect them. If a child is thought to be at risk, the nursery will follow the Safeguarding Children and Child Protection procedures.

The nursery manager will contact the police if anyone (including staff, volunteers, contractors and visitors) is suspected of being in possession of illegal drugs, or if they are driving or may drive when under the influence of illegal drugs. If they are a member of staff, Disciplinary procedures will be followed.

If a member of staff is taking medication that may affect their ability to care for children, they must seek medical advice and inform the nursery manager as soon as possible to arrange for a risk assessment to take place. This will ensure that staff members only work directly with children if medical advice confirms that the medication is unlikely to impair that staff member’s ability to look after the children properly.

If the nursery suspects a member of staff may have a drug or alcohol problem, but there is no evidence

‍If the nursery suspects that there may be an issue with drugs or alcohol (such as from observations, poor performance, changes in behaviour, sickness and/or staff feedback), but there is no evidence that it is happening during working hours or that they are arriving at work under the influence of drugs or alcohol, a meeting will be held with the member of staff and manager to investigate the health concerns.

Support and referral to appropriate services (LADO) may be offered to the staff member if this is considered appropriate. 

Confidentiality will be maintained at all times.

The staff member will be reminded that Disciplinary procedures will apply if they attend work under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

‍

Safeguarding and Child Protection

If a parent is clearly over the alcohol limit, or under the influence of illegal drugs and it is believed the child is at risk, we will follow our Safeguarding Children and Child Protection procedures, contacting the local authority children’s social care team and the police.

Staff will do their utmost to prevent a child from travelling in a vehicle driven by a parent or guardian suspected of being over the alcohol limit or under the influence of illegal drugs. If necessary, the police will be called.

Where an illegal act is suspected to have taken place, the police will be called.

Alcohol and Substance Misuse Policy: condensed format (key information)

• Anyone arriving at the nursery under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or any other substance impacting their ability to care for children, will be asked to leave.
• If a staff member is deemed to be under the influence of the above, the disciplinary procedure will be initiated.
• If a parent is deemed to be under the influence of the above, the DSL will judge whether they are capable of caring for the child; safeguarding and child protection procedures will be followed if a child is thought to be at risk.
• The police will be contacted if anyone arrives at the nursery in control of a car while under the influence of the above, or if anyone is in possession of illegal drugs.
• Alcohol must not be brought onto the nursery premises.
• Staff taking medication which may affect their ability to care for children must seek medical advice, and a risk assessment must be put in place.
• If staff are suspected (without evidence) to have a drug or alcohol problem, a meeting will be held to investigate concerns, and appropriate support/referrals may be offered.

At MEplace we take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of children, staff and others on the premises, including carrying out safety checks regularly. 

These include daily safety checks of the premises, indoors and outdoors, and all equipment and resources before the children access any of the areas. The checks are recorded and show any issues and solutions.

All staff are trained in health and safety to raise awareness. Staff know how to recognise potential hazards, including near misses in the nursery environment, and they monitor safety at all times.

‍

Risk assessments 

Risk assessments document the hazard, who could be harmed, existing controls, the seriousness of the risk or potential injury, any further action needed to control the risk, who is responsible for what action, when and how often will the action be undertaken, and how will this be monitored and checked and by whom.

The nursery carries out risk assessments at least annually. These are regularly reviewed and cover potential risks to children, staff and visitors at the nursery. When circumstances change in the nursery, e.g. a significant piece of equipment is introduced or a new activity or experience is planned, we review our current risk assessment or conduct a new risk assessment depending on the nature of this change.

All staff are trained in the risk assessment process to ensure understanding and compliance with how to manage risks.

All outings away from the nursery are individually risk-assessed. 

Risk assessments for the opening and closing of the nursery, and for educational visits and outings, can be found at the end of this policy.

‍

Dangerous substances

All dangerous substances, including chemicals, are kept in locked areas out of children’s reach. All substances are kept in their original containers with their original labels attached. Safety data sheets (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)) and risk assessments are kept for all substances, and the appropriate personal protection is taken and used, e.g. gloves, and apron.

‍

Hot drinks and food‍

Hot drinks must only be consumed in the staff room. No bottled or canned drinks, sweets or crisps are to be kept or consumed in the nursery rooms or outside. Employees are only allowed clear water bottles with water while working around children.

‍

Transport and outings‍

The nursery has a comprehensive documented policy relating to outings, which incorporates all aspects of health and safety procedures.

Room temperatures

• The Nursery Coordinator and Manager should be aware of room temperatures in the nursery, ensuring that they are suitable at all times. 
• Staff must always be aware of the dangers of babies and young children being too warm or too cold.
• Temperatures should not fall below 18°C in the baby rooms and 16°C in all other areas.

‍

Water supplies

• A fresh water drinking supply is available and accessible to all children, staff and visitors.
• No hot water taps can be accessed by children.

At MEplace, we prioritise the health, safety, and well-being of all children, staff, and visitors. To ensure a safe and hygienic environment, animals are strictly prohibited on the nursery premises under all circumstances. This policy outlines the rationale behind this decision and the measures in place to maintain an animal-free environment.

The presence of animals within the nursery premises poses potential risks to children, including allergies, bites, scratches, and transmission of diseases. Moreover, it is crucial to uphold hygiene standards to prevent the spread of animal-borne illnesses and to maintain a clean and sanitary environment for all.

‍

Prohibition of Animals

Under no circumstances are animals, including pets, service animals, or therapy animals, permitted on the nursery premises.

This includes but is not limited to dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, reptiles, rodents, and any other domestic or exotic animals.

‍

Exceptions

Strictly controlled and supervised visits by authorised and trained animal handlers or professionals may be allowed for educational purposes or special events, with prior approval from the nursery management and founder. 

Such visits must adhere to health and safety guidelines, including appropriate animal hygiene, health certificates, and risk assessments.

‍

Communication and Enforcement

Staff members will be trained to enforce the policy and educate parents and visitors about its importance.

Any violation of the policy will be addressed promptly and sensitively by the nursery management.

‍

Allergies and Sensitivities

The nursery will maintain an updated record of children and staff members with known allergies or sensitivities to animals.

Parents will be responsible for disclosing any relevant information about their child's allergies or sensitivities.

‍

‍Communication with Parents

Parents will be encouraged to inform the nursery of any animal-related incidents or exposures that their child may have experienced outside of the nursery.

‍

Hygiene and Sanitation

The nursery will maintain high standards of hygiene and cleanliness, including regular cleaning and disinfection of all areas to minimise the risk of contamination.

Staff members will receive training on proper hygiene practices and will be responsible for ensuring that children's hands are washed after outdoor activities or contact with animals outside the nursery.

‍

Educational Alternatives

MEplace Nursery recognises the value of providing children with educational experiences related to animals. As an alternative, we will incorporate age-appropriate animal-related learning activities, stories, and resources into our curriculum to promote understanding and respect for animals.

‍

Outdoor Activities

During outdoor activities or excursions, children will be supervised to avoid contact with animals and their droppings.

Staff members will conduct regular checks of outdoor play areas to ensure they are free from any potential animal hazards.

At MEplace, we take all reasonable steps to ensure staff and children in our care are not exposed to risks. We promote the safety of children, parents, staff and visitors by reviewing and reducing any risks.

‍

Risk assessments

Risk assessments document the hazards or aspects of the environment that need to be checked regularly. These include who could be harmed, existing controls, the seriousness of the risk or possible injury, any further action needed to control the risk, who is responsible for what action, when and how often the action will be undertaken, and how this will be monitored, checked and by whom.

The nursery carries out written risk assessments regularly (at least annually), by the nursery manager. These are reviewed regularly and cover potential risks to children, staff and visitors at the nursery. When circumstances change in the nursery, e.g. a significant piece of equipment is introduced or new activity or experience is planned, we review our current risk assessment or conduct a new risk assessment depending on the nature of this change.

All staff are trained in the risk assessment process to ensure understanding and compliance of how to manage risks. All outings away from the nursery are individually risk-assessed and adequately staffed with paediatric first-aid-trained team members. For more details, please refer to the Educational Visits policy.

‍

Hints and tips

Please refer to the Health and Safety Executive’s ‘Five Steps to Risk Assessment’ https:// www.hse.gov.uk/simple-health-safety/risk/index.htm for further support with the risk assessment process. The Five Steps to Risk Assessment publication and risk assessment templates can be downloaded from the Health and Safety Executive’s website at www.hse.gov.uk. Citation Plc can also offer further support with risk assessments at www.cita+on.co.uk.

At MEplace, we prioritise the safety and well-being of all children in our care by ensuring suitable staffing arrangements and adequate supervision. 

The nursery manager holds the responsibility for overseeing all staff, including students, volunteers, and agency staff and providing them with comprehensive information on health and safety policies and procedures. 

This ensures that they can effectively supervise the children, including during meal times.

To maintain appropriate supervision, we have implemented the following practices:

‍

‍Staff Deployment

• We carefully deploy staff members based on the required staff-to-child ratios and qualification requirements to meet the individual needs of the children.
• Parents are informed about the staff deployment arrangements, and their input is considered, whenever feasible, in making these decisions.
  

‍

‍Continuous Supervision

• Every child is always within the sight and/or hearing of a suitably vetted staff member.
• Registers are completed promptly upon children entering and leaving the premises, and head counts are conducted regularly throughout the day.
  

‍

‍Risk Assessment

• We conduct thorough risk assessments of activities, experiences, and equipment to ensure that children are not exposed to unnecessary risks.
• Choking hazards are removed, and close supervision is provided during activities that may pose this risk.
• Extra care is taken to ensure full supervision during all types of water play, as we are aware of the potential dangers of even shallow water.

‍

Appropriate Supervision in Specific Situations

• Special attention is given when children are using large apparatus, such as climbing frames, and when they are walking up or down steps or stairs.
• We support children in identifying, minimising, and managing risks during their play.
• Staff members are knowledgeable about potential dangers related to bushes, shrubs, and plants during outdoor visits or activities.
  

‍

Supervision & Care

• Children are fully supervised during meal times, with close monitoring of toddlers and babies.
• Under twos are never left alone with a bottle and are always fed by a staff member, if needed. 
• Sleeping children are never left unattended.
• Children are never left unattended during nappy-changing times or toilet visits. 
• Careful supervision is provided when children are using scissors or tools, including knives during cooking activities, if required.
  

‍

Increased Supervision During Outings

• During outings, we maintain higher staff-to-child ratios to ensure adequate supervision and safety. Please refer to our Educational Visits policy for further details.
  

‍

Compliance with Safety Guidelines

• We strictly adhere to safety guidelines provided by external organisations or companies, especially regarding the hiring of equipment or services, such as bouncy castles.
• A staff member must supervise the children at all times, ensuring their safety and well-being.

‍

By implementing these supervision practices, we aim to create a safe environment where children can thrive and enjoy their learning experiences, knowing that they are well cared for and protected. We continuously review and update our policies to ensure that they align with the latest industry standards and best practices

At MEplace, the safety and well-being of children, staff, and visitors are paramount. This Electrical Safety Policy has been established to ensure the safe use and maintenance of electrical systems and equipment within our facility. All individuals, including staff and contractors, have a responsibility to adhere to this policy and prioritise electrical safety.

‍

Qualified Personnel

Only authorised and qualified personnel will be permitted to install, repair, or maintain electrical systems and equipment within the facility. 

‍

Maintenance and Inspections

Routine yearly inspections will be conducted by qualified electricians to identify and rectify any potential electrical hazards. Maintenance and repairs will be promptly carried out to ensure the safe operation of electrical systems and equipment. All electrical equipment will be maintained, including Portable Appliance Testing (PAT testing) on a routine yearly basis.

‍

Safe Practices & Child Safety

1. All electrical outlets, switches, and appliances will be checked daily for wear and tear. Any faulty items will be promptly repaired or replaced.
2. The use of extension cords and power strips is limited to temporary solutions, and they must be in good condition, free from damage, and not overloaded.
3. Leads should never be pulled to remove a plug or to lift or move an appliance.
4. Sockets must not be overloaded by the use of adaptors (for safety, when in doubt, err on the side of caution/seek qualified advice).
5. If extension cables are used, they must be placed in such a way as not to cause a hazard to anybody else.
6. Childproofing measures will be implemented, including securing electrical outlets and keeping cords out of children's reach, to prevent accidents.
7. Any electrical hazards, malfunctions, or incidents must be immediately reported to nursery management for prompt action. 

‍

Staff's Responsibilities Regarding Electrical Safety

1. Inspecting Appliances: It is the responsibility of all users, including staff, to inspect appliances for loose wiring, faulty plugs, or any visible defects before using them. This includes both paid and voluntary staff.

2. Reporting Electrical Faults: If any electrical faults or issues are identified, they must be reported immediately to the appropriate authorities or management.

3. Labelling and Removing Faulty Equipment: If any equipment is found to be faulty, it must be promptly removed from usage and clearly labelled as such. This is to ensure that no one inadvertently uses or attempts to repair malfunctioning equipment.

3. Recognising Electrical Faults: All employees, whether paid or voluntary, are responsible for recognising common electrical faults, such as equipment not working, loose wiring, broken casing, electrical arcing (sparks), plugs becoming warm, etc.

4. Basic Principles of Electrical Safety: Staff members are expected to observe basic principles of electrical safety, which include:

• Ensuring that their hands are dry before using an electrical appliance.
• Seeking and following adequate instructions when using unfamiliar electrical equipment, complying with the manufacturer's guidelines.
• Avoiding pulling leads to remove plugs or to lift or move appliances.
• Switching off the mains, unplugging, and safely storing all electrical equipment when not in use.
• Ensuring that sockets are not overloaded, by using adaptors cautiously and seeking qualified advice when in doubt.
• Properly placing extension cables to avoid creating hazards for others.

5. Record Keeping for Incidents/Accidents: Staff members are responsible for maintaining accurate records of any electrical safety incidents or accidents involving children and the team. These records should be documented on designated accident forms and include details such as the date, time, location, individuals involved, a description of the incident, any injuries sustained, and any actions taken to address the situation.      

‍

Responsibilities for Management

While the above responsibilities apply to all staff members, management has additional responsibilities related to electrical safety, including:

1. Overseeing Maintenance and Testing: Ensuring that all electrical equipment within the facility is properly maintained, and that routine PAT testing is conducted as required by regulations. This includes scheduling and supervising maintenance and testing procedures.‍

2. Providing Training and Guidance: Arranging for regular training on electrical safety protocols and procedures for all staff members, including new employees during their onboarding process. Management is responsible for ensuring that staff members are well-informed about electrical safety.‍

3. Enforcing Compliance: Enforcing compliance with the electrical safety policy and taking disciplinary action if any staff members fail to adhere to the policy. Management should also lead by example in following safety guidelines.‍

4. Emergency Response and Communication: Developing and communicating emergency response procedures in case of electrical incidents, ensuring that all staff are aware of these procedures, and coordinating with relevant authorities as needed.‍

5. Monitoring Regulations and Standards: Staying updated with relevant electrical safety regulations, such as the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, and ensuring that the facility's electrical systems and practices comply with these standards.

‍

Legal Framework

This policy is aligned with relevant legislation and regulations, including:

•  Electricity at Work Regulations 1989: This legislation mandates the maintenance of electrical systems to prevent danger and ensure the safety of employees and others.
• Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974: This act places a duty on employers to ensure health, safety, and welfare at work, including electrical safety.
• Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER): PUWER requires employers to ensure the safe use of work equipment, including electrical equipment.
• The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999: These regulations require risk assessments, including those related to electrical systems and equipment.
• The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005: While primarily addressing fire safety, this legislation may also affect electrical safety within our setting, as faulty electrical systems can be a fire hazard.

‍

MEplace Nursery is committed to creating a secure environment for everyone within the facility, and this Electrical Safety Policy plays a crucial role in achieving that goal. Failure to comply with this policy may result in disciplinary action.

This policy is created with the intent of creating a whole nursery approach to the health care and management of those members of the MEplace community suffering from specific allergies.

All staff are aware that children who attend MEplace may suffer from food, bee/wasp sting, animal or nut allergies and we believe that all allergies should be taken seriously and dealt with professionally and appropriately.

MEplace can not guarantee a completely allergen-free environment. To our best endeavours, we try to minimise the risk of exposure, encourage self-responsibility, and plan for effective responses to possible emergencies.

All our staff are trained to use EPI pens accordingly as part of their first-aid training.

The Statutory Framework states that the provider must obtain information about any dietary requirements/allergies. As such parents must provide details of allergies in the child’s health information on Famly under the health section.

This policy intends to minimise the risk of any child suffering allergy-induced anaphylaxis whilst attending MEplace.

An allergic reaction to nuts is the most common high-risk allergy and as such demands more rigorous controls throughout the policy.

The underlying principles of this policy include:

• The establishment of effective risk management practices to minimise the children, staff, parents and visitors' exposure to known trigger foods and insects.
• Staff training and education to ensure an effective emergency response to any allergic reaction situation.

This policy applies to all members of the MEplace community:

• Nursery Staff
• Parents / Carers
• Volunteers
• Children

‍

Definitions

Allergy – A condition in which the body has an exaggerated response to a substance (eg. food and drugs) also known as hypersensitivity.

Allergen – A normally harmless substance that triggers an allergic reaction in the immune system of a susceptible person.

Anaphylaxis – Anaphylaxis, or anaphylactic shock, is a sudden, severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction to food, stings, bites, or medicines.

Epipen – Brand name for syringe-style device containing the drug Adrenalin, which is ready for immediate intramuscular administration.

Minimised Risk Environment – An environment where risk management practices (eg. risk assessment forms) have minimised the risk of (allergen) exposure.

Individual Health Care Plan – A detailed document outlining an individual child’s condition treatment and an action plan for the location of any Epipens.

‍

Procedures and Responsibilities for Allergy Management

General

• Parents complete the Allergy (Special Dietary Requirements) Form before their child joins the setting and fill in the form again if they become aware of any new allergies that their child has developed. A link to the form can be found at the end of this policy.
• Parents and staff collaborate to establish Individual Health Care Plans.
• Practices are established and maintained for effectively communicating a child's healthcare plans to all relevant staff.
• Staff are trained in anaphylaxis management, including awareness of triggers and first-aid procedures to be followed in the event of an emergency.
• Our curriculum encompasses age-appropriate education for children with severe food allergies.
• Every room should have a clear visual displaying all children and their allergies/food intolerances (permission for the display is required from parents).

‍

Medical Information

Any change in a child’s medical condition during the year must be reported to the Nursery Manager.

For children with an allergic condition, we require parents/carers to provide written advice from a doctor (GP), which explains the condition and defines the allergy triggers and any required medication.

The Manager will ensure that an Individual Health Care Plan is established and updated for each child with a known allergy.

Teachers of children and key staff are required to review and familiarise themselves with the medical information.

Action Plans with a recent photograph of any children with allergies will be displayed in relevant rooms with parental permission.

Where children with known allergies are participating in nursery outings, the risk assessments must include this information.

The wearing of a medic-alert bracelet is allowed.

‍

Medical Information (EpiPens) 

Where EpiPens (Adrenalin) are required in the Individual Health Care Plan:

• Parents/ guardians are responsible for the provision and timely replacement of the EpiPens; MEplace will inform the parents when the expiry date is coming closer.
• The EpiPens are located securely in the medical cupboard in each room. 

‍

Parents’ Role 

Parents are responsible for providing, in writing, ongoing accurate and current medical information to the nursery. This involves completing (and updating as appropriate) the Allergy (Special Dietary Requirements) Form. A link to the form can be found at the end of this policy.

Parents must provide a letter from the GP confirming and detailing the nature of the allergy, including:

• The allergen (the substance the child is allergic to)
• The nature of the allergic reaction (from rash and breathing problems to anaphylactic shock)
• What to do in case of an allergic reaction, including any medication to be used and how it is to be used
• Control measures – such as how the child can be prevented from getting into contact with the allergen

If a child has an allergy requiring an EpiPen or the risk assessment deems it necessary, an Individual Health Care Plan must be completed and acknowledged by the parents.

It is the responsibility of the parent to provide MEplace with up-to-date medication/ equipment clearly labelled in a suitable container.

In cases where life-saving medication like EpiPens is required, the child will not be allowed to attend the nursery without it.

Parents are also required to provide up-to-date emergency contact information.

Parents should liaise with staff about the appropriateness of snacks and any food-related activities (e.g. cooking).

No external food is allowed in the nursery to minimise the risk of exposing children with allergies to food that could trigger an allergic reaction.

‍

Staff’s Role

Staff are responsible for familiarising themselves with the policy and adhering to health & safety regulations regarding food and drink.

If a child’s health care plan states that they have an allergy then a MEplace IHCP is needed. It must be in place before the child starts attending sessions. 

Upon determining that a child attending MEplace has a severe allergy, a team meeting will be set up as soon as possible, where all staff concerned attend to update knowledge and awareness of the child's needs.

All staff who come into contact with the child will be made aware of what treatment/ medication is required and where any medication is stored by the child’s key worker.

All staff are to promote hand washing before and after eating for children and staff at all times. 

Children with allergies are provided with designated red placemats that are placed under their plates or bowls during all mealtimes. These placemats are clearly labelled with the child's name, picture, and information regarding their specific allergies.

A permanent staff member from MEplace must be seated either next to or opposite children with allergies at all times during mealtimes, allowing them to look at the children directly. This ensures that proper supervision and assistance can be provided to children with allergies to maintain their well-being.

All tables are cleaned and wiped with an approved solution.

Children are not permitted to share food between themselves.

As part of the staff first-aid course, EpiPen use and storage have been covered.

We may ask the parent for a list of food products and food derivatives the child must not come into contact with.

Emergency medication should be easily accessible, especially at times of high risk.

Staff should liaise with parents about snacks and any food-related activities.

‍

ACTIONS

In the event of a child suffering an allergic reaction:

• The Nursery Manager will contact the child’s parents as per the child's IHCP.
• If a child becomes distressed or their symptoms become more serious, telephone 999.
• A member of staff will make the child feel comfortable.
• If medication is available, it will be administered in line with training and in conjunction with the Medication Policy. 

If parents have not arrived by the time an ambulance arrives, a member of staff (the child’s key person or someone from the management team) will accompany the child to the hospital, remaining with the child until the parents arrive.

‍

‍Relevant Links 

MEbaby Allergy (Special Dietary Requirements) Form 

MEbig Allergy (Special Dietary Requirements) Form

To ensure the safety of all children within our care, it is important to identify any special dietary requirements.

Children with allergies or intolerances and specific food preferences are categorised into two distinct groups when it comes to food containers facilitated by a traffic light system: red for allergies or intolerances and yellow for preferences.

Children with dietary preferences, indicated by a yellow label on their respective containers, are unable to consume certain food items due to reasons associated with their religious beliefs, personal moral principles, or parental preferences. It's important to note that these dietary restrictions are not based on medical reasons. 

The group denoted by a red label on their containers comprises children who either suffer from food allergies or have food intolerances. This classification is rooted in medical necessity. 

Containers dedicated to children with allergies, intolerances or dietary preferences are individually marked with stickers. Each sticker displays the child's name along with information detailing their specific dietary requirements, such as allergens or dietary restrictions.

The labelled containers, along with designated red placemats for children with allergies, are collected from the kitchen. During mealtimes, the red placemats are placed under the individual’s plate or bowl to indicate that they have specific allergies, and that they require close supervision. These placemats are clearly labelled with the child's name, picture, and information regarding their specific allergies.

A Food Champion, which is the Nursery Coordinator at all MEplace Sites (outlined in the Nursery Factsheet - for more information relating to your nursery site, please see the Factsheet which is displayed at the site entrance), will be appointed for the following. In the absence of the Food Champion, the Nursery Manager will be responsible for this role:

1. Ensure staff comply with the requirements in this policy.
2. Ensure children's dietary requirements are updated every three months - Nursery Coordinator to check with parents.
3. Ensure all allergy risk assessments are completed.
4. Ensure any emergency medication needed for children is stored securely away from children in a locked cabinet and that it is not expired.
5. Ensure all relevant displays for dietary requirements are displayed with up-to-date information.

‍

Dietary Requirements & Weaning Babies

Parents must complete the Dietary Requirements Form as part of the onboarding process before their child starts at MEplace. A link to the form can be found at the end of this policy. This document is to be kept in the child's profile on Famly.

Parents must inform the Nursery Manager in writing of any changes to their child’s dietary requirements using the Dietary Requirements Form. 

The Dietary Requirements Form is designed to ensure that staff have all of the necessary dietary information for each child. All information on dietary requirements will be stored in the child’s file.

‍

Dietary Requirements Form

If a child develops a food allergy or intolerance, the Dietary Requirements Form must be completed within 1 working day by the parents/guardian. This will provide MEplace with the information required to ensure that we follow all necessary dietary requirements. 

The child’s parents/guardian must provide advice and instructions on how to manage the child’s allergy or intolerance, along with any reactions the child may suffer. 

The Nursery Manager will create an Individual Health Care Plan where necessary.

‍

Relevant Links 

MEbaby Allergy (Special Dietary Requirements) Form 

MEbig Allergy (Special Dietary Requirements) Form 

At MEplace, we provide fresh, nutrient-rich, plant-based meals with ingredients carefully selected to help boost vitality and wellness.

We are committed to ensuring:

• A balanced and healthy breakfast and lunch are provided for children who attend, in addition to a light dinner and two daily snacks for children attending a full day at the nursery.
• Fresh, filtered drinking water is available at all times.
• We meet individual dietary requirements. 
• We gather information from parents regarding their children’s dietary requirements, including any allergies. Where appropriate, we will carry out a risk assessment in the case of allergies and work alongside parents to put into place an Individual Health Care Plan for their child.
• We provide different flavours and textures of food for babies through the weaning stage.
• We promote healthy eating by offering a plant-based menu of nutritious meals and snacks, tailored to meet the dietary needs and preferences of each child. Our commitment to healthy eating is reinforced through our educational programme and activities.
• Staff receive relevant training in food hygiene procedures.

‍

Environment

We recognise new environments may influence how children behave. Some children may refuse to eat, particularly during the settling-in phase when children are unfamiliar with the nursery. This is usually brief and may occur during the transition period.

‍

Feeling Unwell

Unwell children may lose their appetite and refuse to eat, sometimes rejecting solids and opting for milk and other liquids. We take a proactive approach to support children by providing specific alternatives to ensure children eat.

Our staff have a wealth of experience and will always do what is best to support each child. Staff members will actively encourage healthy eating habits among children by creating a positive mealtime environment where nutritious foods are served. When children are hesitant to eat, we employ gentle encouragement and provide a variety of food choices, allowing them to explore new tastes at their own pace. Our approach prioritises fostering a healthy relationship with food, ensuring that mealtimes are nurturing and enjoyable experiences without resorting to coercion or pressure to eat. 

If, for any reason, children refuse to eat, we will inform parents on the same day via the Famly app. However, we would never force children to eat. Instead, we are committed to providing unwavering support and encouragement to help them make positive choices when it comes to their meals.

In extreme cases, where a child continuously refuses to eat, we will work together with parents and specialists to meet the child’s unique needs and support the child and their family through this process. 

At MEplace, we believe that food is more than just fuel. We understand that our diets are an integral part of our sustained growth and development, providing the fundamental ingredients for a life well-lived.

We prioritise the provision of wholesome and nutritious meals for children, primarily sourced from organic plant-based ingredients. Our commitment to offering healthy dining options is unwavering, with limited exceptions.

‍

Milk and Formulas

Younger children (up to the age of 2) are offered oat milk, usually just before nap time. Children consuming oat milk, provided by the setting, should be placed on one side of the room, while those consuming formula or breast milk should be on the other side. Bottles are returned to the kitchen once children are finished drinking or asleep, and the bottles are rinsed before placing them in the dishwasher.

Exceptions to our plant-based approach include the allowance of human breast milk, which should be appropriately labelled and stored. Additionally, selected dry formulas are made available only upon specific request from parents or guardians and are subject to approval.

The approved brands for dry formulas at MEplace are HIPP Organic Stage 3 and Kendamil Organic Stage 3. These formulas are provided to children when requested and approved, ensuring that their dietary requirements are met while adhering to our commitment to health and well-being. Parents are asked to speak to the Nursery Manager if they would like to request one of the approved brands of dry formula for their child. 

Parents who bring breast milk to the nursery must complete a Milk Form confirming that the bottles only contain breast milk. A link to the form can be found at the end of this policy. Bottles containing breast milk must also be clearly labelled with the child's name and the date the milk was expressed.

External Food

Under no circumstances can external food be accepted at the nursery, including cow's milk and morning snacks brought by children. The only exception is breast milk from the child's mother, provided it is clearly labelled with the child's name and the date expressed. A dedicated refrigerator space is available for storing breast milk.

‍

Dietary Requirements

It is the Food Champion’s (Nursery Coordinator’s) responsibility to ensure that all staff members are aware of each child's dietary requirements. The Nursery Coordinator is specified in the Nursery Factsheet (for more information relating to your nursery site, please see the Factsheet, which is displayed at the site entrance). Nursery chefs are responsible for providing food that meets the needs of children with allergies, intolerances and dietary preferences. Allergy, intolerance and preference lists are displayed in rooms where children consume food, and all staff members are aware of children's specific dietary requirements.

‍

Dietary Requests for Children with Medical Needs

If, for any medical reason, parents require a different brand or type of plant-based milk that contains no allergens, they must communicate this to the Nursery Manager. Following a discussion, there may be an opportunity to provide the requested item for the child if there is a medical reason that the child cannot consume what the setting offers.

‍

By implementing these dietary policies, we aim to provide a safe, nutritious, and enjoyable dining experience for all children at MEplace.

At MEplace, we aim to support parents’ choices when continuing to give their baby breast milk at the nursery.

We will handle breast milk following the universal precautions for storage by following the Breastfeeding Network Guidelines for storing breast milk.

Please inform the MEplace team and fill in the Breast Milk Declaration if you are bringing breast milk to the nursery so that we can ensure it is stored correctly in a separate area of the fridge and handled correctly. A link to this form can be found at the end of this policy.

Breast milk should be clearly labelled with the child's name and the date it was expressed.

‍

Breast Feeding at the Nursery

We want to ensure that every mother feels comfortable to breastfeed their baby whilst they are in the nursery.

When parents come into the nursery, they will come into the reception area and will be helped from there.

Staff will provide the mother with a comfortable seat in the nursery.

We will ensure that the mother can wash her hands before and after breastfeeding.

‍

Expressed Milk

Expressed milk may either be stored in our fridge or may be brought in frozen, in line with guidance. The baby's feeding routine will be discussed with parents and their key teacher to make arrangements for the mother to come into the nursery to breastfeed or express. This may be verbal or written via a message in the Famly app.

Following good hygiene guidance when unfreezing breast milk, we will adhere to the following procedure: frozen breast milk will be defrosted by swirling the bottle in a bowl of warm water (it will not be microwaved or defrosted in hot water).

Milk will be given following parents’ wishes, e.g. from the fridge, at room temperature or heated (following the above procedure).

Any unused milk will be discarded; the bottles are to be rinsed and returned to the parents upon child collection.

‍

Storage of breast milk

Breast milk can be stored in the top section of the fridge. It will need to be transported in an insulated cool bag. Fridges and freezers are monitored for temperature control measures and this is recorded. The temperature of the storage fridge needs to be 4°C or lower.

Note for Families/Religions That Do Not Celebrate Birthdays‍

At MEplace, we understand and respect that some families or religious beliefs may not participate in birthday celebrations. We want to assure these families that our policy is flexible and considerate of their preferences. If your child's family chooses not to celebrate birthdays, please let us know, and we will ensure that their wishes are respected. We are committed to creating an environment where all children feel comfortable and valued, regardless of their individual cultural or religious practices.‍

‍

Introduction for Families That Do Celebrate Birthdays ‍

At MEplace, we want to ensure inclusivity and accommodate the diverse needs of our children so we have implemented the following policy regarding nursery birthday celebrations.

‍

Food Restrictions‍

Due to the increasing number of children with allergies, dietary restrictions, religious preferences or other dietary requirements, outside foods such as cupcakes, sweets and other treats are not permitted for nursery birthday celebrations. This policy aligns with our commitment to creating an inclusive environment where all children can participate without exclusion. 

‍

Inclusive Celebrations‍

The MEplace team and the child's friends will come together to sing "Happy Birthday," engaging activities will be arranged to make the celebration enjoyable for everyone.

‍

Outside Nursery Celebrations - Digital Invitations

Parents are encouraged to give us a digital copy of their child's potential birthday invitation. We will happily share the invitation with their friends through our Famly app, allowing for excitement and anticipation among classmates.

‍

Promoting Inclusion‍

The Birthday Policy is designed not to diminish the joy or excitement of a birthday but to celebrate in a manner that promotes inclusivity, a sense of belonging and respect for all children and their unique needs.

At MEplace, we ensure any activities involving food, including cookery, sensory trays and other food play, are carefully supervised.

We will also use the following procedures to ensure children are kept safe:

• Choking hazards are checked for and avoided.
• We will not use whole jelly cubes for play.
• Small objects, such as dried pasta, will only be used under supervision.
• All allergies and intolerances will be checked for, and activities will be adapted to suit all children’s needs including any dietary requirements, so that no child is excluded.
• Any cooking activities will be assessed before starting to ensure all children are able to use all of the ingredients based on their individual needs.

We will not use food in play unless it enhances the opportunities children arereceiving from the activity. Much of the food will be reused in other activities (e.g. art activities), especially the dry materials.

At MEplace, the well-being of all children within our care is of the utmost importance. Staff must adhere to the procedures outlined below, in line with our MEplace Email and Internet Platforms Policy, Team and Visitors Personal Phones and Devices Policy, Social Media Policy, Photography and Video Policy, CCTV Policy, and Device Management Policy. Links to each of the related policies can be found at the end of this policy.

‍

Staff use of the Internet:

• Use of the internet on the nursery premises must be principally for teaching purposes, e.g. accessing learning resources, using educational websites, researching curriculum topics, or use of MEplace email.
• Use of the nursery’s internet for personal financial gain (including the use of online auction sites, gambling, political purposes, or advertising) is prohibited.
• Staff must not access the internet for personal reasons whilst teaching children.
• Use of the internet to access any illegal sites or inappropriate material is a disciplinary offence.
• The nursery recognises that many staff will actively use Facebook/X and other such social networking sites, blogging, and messaging services during their time outside work. Staff must not post material (including text or images) that could compromise our reputation or question the suitability of staff when it comes to working with children. Staff must recognise that it is not appropriate to discuss issues relating to children or other staff via these networks. Those who post material that could be considered inappropriate could render themselves vulnerable to criticism or allegations of misconduct.
• Existing parents must not be accepted as “friends” on social networking sites. If a child’s parent sends a friend request on a social networking site, staff must not accept the ‘friendship request’.
• High-security settings must be in place on social networking sites and regularly reviewed.

‍

Use of digital images

Any photos or videos of children must only be taken using the nursery’s devices. These images must not be posted or publicly displayed anywhere else and must only be shared through the Famly app.

Please note that pictures to be shared on Famly must only be taken of children whose parents have consented, as stated on the child’s profile.

Staff must not download, save or store pictures, contact details or any other information relating to children and parents on their personal devices while accessing Famly from home.

‍

Security and passwords

All electronic devices will be password-protected and passwords will be updated regularly. Passwords for our systems are confidential and must be kept as such. You must not share any passwords for any of your accounts (including Famly, Gmail, Access Control, etc.) with any other person; in particular, you must not allow any other staff member to know or use your password or PIN. Passwords must be changed yearly.

MEplace is committed to safeguarding the children and families at our nursery. We are aware of the risk that mobile phones and other devices with camera functionality pose to the children in our care.

‍

Guidelines for Personal Phones and Devices

We aim to promote safe and appropriate practice by establishing clear guidelines. This policy also relates to the use of any device which may be used to take images, including but not restricted to tablets, smartwatches, and cameras.

• Mobile phones, smartwatches and fitness watches are either turned off or on silent and not accessed during working hours.
• Mobile phones, smartwatches and fitness watches can only be used on a designated break and only in the staff room. 
• Smartwatches may be worn during working hours; however, notifications must be turned off.
• Mobile phones or other similar mobile devices must not be used while on duty and/or in any area of the setting occupied by or accessible to children. 
• All mobile phones will be locked away in the staff area/dedicated box during working hours and must not be taken into any areas accessible to children. Staff will have access to their own personal devices during their lunch break.
• The nursery’s mobile phone must be used by staff expecting an emergency phone call when inside the nursery.
• Using a personal mobile phone or similar device to take pictures or videos of children is strictly prohibited.
• Personal mobile phones must not be used to communicate with parents or guardians concerning nursery matters.
• The nursery’s mobile phone must be taken out on outings (one per group). This phone will contain the nursery contact details for management, head office and the directors. 
• Passwords and/or passcodes for nursery devices must not be shared or written down and will be changed regularly.
• During outings, staff must only use mobile phones belonging to the nursery.
• Only nursery-owned devices will be used to take photographs or film videos. These photos and videos must not be shared in any way, and they must only be posted via the Famly app.
• Nursery devices must not be taken home with staff and will remain secure in the setting when not in use.

Authorised use of digital images can contribute positively to the experience of families and potential families at MEplace. The nursery recognises the positive role that social media can play, and where we have authorisation from parents, appropriate and relevant images of children will be shared on social media. Images of children will be deleted from the device once they have been used for the intended purpose. The taking of images on any unauthorised device is strictly prohibited.

‍

Per the aims of this policy, parents and guardians must not use their mobile phones while in the nursery or while picking up and dropping off their children, except for scanning the QR code to sign the children in and out of the nursery on the Famly app.

Social media is a large part of the world we live in and, as such, at MEplace we need to make sure we protect our children by having procedures in place to ensure the safe use of social media.

The use of X, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, Tik Tok and any other social media or live streaming platform is strictly prohibited during working hours. Access to social media on nursery devices is not permitted.

We recognise social media has become a part of everyday life. We advise staff to be mindful of the type of content they share when posting on social media, especially when wearing MEplace-branded clothing or on the nursery premises. Comments made on social media posts could have a negative impact on how parents view the suitability of staff.

‍

Staff use of social media

We require our staff to be responsible and professional in their use of social networking sites about any connection to the nursery, nursery staff, parents or children.

‍

When using social networking sites we ask the staff:

• Not to make comments relating to their work or post pictures in work uniform.
• Not to send private messages to any parents or family members of the children at the nursery, nor to accept any friend requests from parents/family.
• To ensure that any posts reflect their professional role in the community (e.g. no inappropriate social event photos or inappropriate comments such as foul
  language).
• To report any concerning comments or questions from parents to the
  Nursery Manager or Designated Safeguarding Lead.
• Not to post anything that could be construed as having any impact on the
  nursery’s reputation, or relating to the nursery or any children attending the
  nursery in any way.
• To follow this policy in conjunction with the Whistleblowing policy.
  

We have strong security measures in place, as specified in all of our technology use policies.

If any of the above points are not followed, then the member of staff involved will face disciplinary action, which could result in dismissal.

All electronic communications between staff and parents should be professional and take place via the official nursery communication channels (i.e. on the Famly app). This is to protect staff, children and parents.

‍

We ask parents not to:

• Send friend requests to any member of the nursery staff;
• Screenshot or share any posts or pictures from the nursery on social media
  platforms (these may contain other children in the pictures);
• Post any photographs to social media that have been supplied by the nursery with other children in them (e.g. Christmas concert photographs or photographs from an activity at the nursery).

‍

We ask parents to:

• Share any concerns regarding inappropriate use of social media, informing the Nursery Manager or completing the Feedback Form.

Photography and videography are essential tools for monitoring the learning that takes place in our settings. They also provide a valuable record for parents of their child’s time in our care. However, they must be used safely. The following rules must be adhered to:

• Images (photographs or videos) can only be taken with signed permission from the child’s parent/guardian. This permission can be found in the child’s profile on Famly. 
• Images are to be used for authorised reasons only.
• Staff must not take a picture or video of children while changing or without a nappy or underwear on.
• Images must only be taken on nursery devices.
• Parents and press photographers are only permitted to take photographs at public events. The Nursery Manager will inform parents if an event is public or not.
• Parents will be notified when a professional photographer visits to take portraits, class pictures, etc. The photographer will be supervised at all times and the Visitor Policy will be followed.
• Photographs stored on nursery devices are password-protected.
• Staff must not send photographs from any nursery device to their personal device.

Failure to comply with these rules will result in disciplinary action and could potentially constitute gross misconduct resulting in a dismissal.

Please note that this policy only applies to sites where CCTV (Closed-Circuit Television) is available.

The nursery CCTV surveillance is intended for:

• Promoting the health and safety of children, staff and visitors
• Protecting the nursery building and resources

The system is comprised of fixed cameras. These are placed around the nursery, inside and outside, but not in the toilets or changing areas. This is to maintain children’s dignity.

‍
Monitoring

The CCTV is monitored centrally and is registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) under the terms of the Data Protection Act. 

The nursery complies with the ICO CCTV Code of Practice to ensure it is used responsibly.

All authorised operators and employees with access to images are aware of the procedures to be followed when accessing the recorded images. All operators are trained to understand their responsibilities under the CCTV Code of Practice. All employees are aware of the restrictions in relation to access to and disclosure of recorded images.

‍

Storage and retention

The images captured by the CCTV system will be retained for a maximum of 30 days, except where the image identifies an issue and is retained specifically in the context of an investigation or prosecution of that issue. The images and recordings will be stored in a secure environment with a log kept of access to recordings. Access will be restricted to authorised personnel.

Supervising the access and maintenance of the CCTV system is the responsibility of the Nursery Manager and Nominated Individual. In certain circumstances, the recordings may also be viewed by other individuals. When CCTV recordings are being viewed, access will be limited to authorised individuals on a need-to-know basis. Files will be stored in a secure environment with a log of access to recordings kept.

‍

Subject Access Requests (SAR)

Individuals have the right to request access to CCTV footage relating to themselves under the Data Protection Act and GDPR. Individuals submitting requests for access will be asked to provide sufficient information to enable the footage relating to them to be identified - for example, date, time and location.

The nursery will respond to requests within 14 calendar days of receiving the request. The nursery reserves the right to refuse access to CCTV footage where this would prejudice the legal rights of other individuals or jeopardise an ongoing investigation.

A record will be made of the date of the disclosure, along with details of who the information has been provided to (the name of the person and the organisation they represent) and why they required it.

Where footage contains images relating to third parties, the nursery will take appropriate steps to mask and protect the identities of those individuals.

‍

Responsibilities

The manager will ensure:

• That the use of CCTV systems is implemented in accordance with this policy.
• That they oversee and coordinate the use of CCTV monitoring for safety and security purposes.
• That all CCTV monitoring systems will be evaluated for compliance with this policy.
• That the CCTV monitoring is consistent with the highest standards and protections. 
• That if safeguarding concerns arise from monitoring the footage, appropriate safeguarding actions are taken, e.g. contacting the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO). Please see the Safeguarding Children and Child Protection Policy for procedures to follow in the event of a staff allegation.
• That they review camera locations and are responsible for the release of any information or recorded CCTV materials stored in compliance with this policy.
• That they maintain a record of access to or the release of files or any material recorded or stored in the system.
• That monitored footage is stored in a secure place with access by authorised personnel only.
• The images recorded are stored for a period of no longer than 30 days and are then erased unless required as part of a criminal investigation or court proceedings (criminal or civil).
• That camera control is solely to monitor suspicious behaviour, criminal damage, etc., and not to monitor individual characteristics.

Under certain circumstances, the CCTV footage may be used for training purposes (including staff supervision, staff training, etc.) or for parents to view child transitions.

MEplace Nursery is dedicated to protecting the privacy of children, teachers, and families. We understand the importance of confidentiality and are committed to complying with Data Protection Laws. This policy outlines our guidelines for handling confidential information and ensures that it is shared only with relevant professionals to enhance the child's welfare.

‍

Access and Storage of Information

Parents are welcome to view the policies and procedures of the nursery, which govern how the nursery operates. These may be viewed at any time when the nursery is open, simply by asking the Nursery Manager or by accessing the files on the Parent Hub. 

Parents are also welcome to see and contribute to all of the records that are kept on their child. However, we must adhere to data protection laws and, where relevant, any guidance from the relevant agencies for child protection.

As we hold personal information about staff and families, we are registered under data protection law with the Information Commissioner’s Office. A copy of the certificate can be viewed at the nursery reception. All parent, child and staff information is stored securely according to the requirements of data protection registration, including details, permissions, certificates and photographic images. We will ensure that staff understand the need to protect the privacy of the children in their care as well as the legal requirements that exist to ensure that information relating to the child is handled in a way that ensures confidentiality.

The nursery’s documentation and records that are required to be kept and stored by current legislation are performed in accordance with minimum legal archiving requirements. We currently archive these records for at least 24 years to ensure we are covered for any child protection concerns.

Nursery records and documentation that are not required to be kept are deleted in line with the current data protection laws and our GDPR privacy notice which can be found on each site. 

If parents have a specific deletion or retention request regarding any data that we hold, please raise a query in writing and we will respond formally to your request.

‍

Confidentiality of Information

Information shared between parents and staff at MEplace Nursery is considered strictly confidential. It must be treated as such, and access should be limited to relevant professionals involved in the child's care and education.

‍

Disclosure to Outside Professionals

Before disclosing any confidential information to outside professionals, such as specialists requiring specialist advice, parents will be consulted and their consent obtained. This ensures that parents are aware and involved in the process, maintaining transparency and respecting their rights.

Personal Information Protection Procedures 

Personal information, including telephone numbers and addresses, must not be shared without obtaining explicit permission from the individuals concerned. It is crucial to respect their privacy and only disclose such information when necessary and authorised.

Procedures

It is our intention to respect the privacy of children and their families, and we do so by:

• Storing confidential records in a locked filing cabinet or on the office computer with files that are password protected.
• Ensuring staff, student and volunteer inductions include an awareness of the importance of the need to protect the privacy of the children in their care as well as the legal requirements that exist to ensure that information relating to each child is handled in a way that ensures confidentiality. This includes ensuring that information about children and families is not shared outside of the nursery, other than with relevant professionals who will need to know. It is not shared with friends and family, or part of any social discussions outside of the setting. If staff breach any confidentiality provisions, this may result in disciplinary action and, in serious cases, dismissal. 
• Ensuring that all staff, volunteers and students are aware that information about children and families is confidential and only for use within the nursery to support the child’s best interests, with parental permission. If any of this information is requested for whatever reason, the parent’s permission will always be sought other than in the safeguarding circumstances above.
• Ensuring that parents have access to files and records of their own children but not to those of any other child. Exceptions to parental access may take place when relevant professionals (e.g. the police or a local authority social care team) decide this access is no longer in the child’s best interest.
• Ensuring staff do not discuss personal information given by parents with other members of staff, except where it affects planning for the child's needs.
• Ensuring staff, students and volunteers are aware of and follow our Social Networking Policy about confidentiality.
• Ensuring issues concerning the employment of staff remain confidential to the people directly involved with making personnel decisions.
• Ensuring any concerns or evidence relating to a child's personal safety are kept in a secure, confidential file and are shared with as few people as possible on a ‘need-to-know’ basis. If, however, a child is considered at risk, our Safeguarding Children and Child Protection Policy will override confidentiality.

‍

Use of Information on Famly

Information stored on Famly, about each child, must be used exclusively for childcare, educational, and nursery purposes. Any use beyond these purposes is strictly prohibited, in the interests of maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of the data.

Data Protection Compliance

MEplace Nursery is committed to complying with Data Protection Laws and regulations. Staff members are expected to adhere to all applicable laws and internal policies to safeguard sensitive information and maintain confidentiality.

Training and Awareness

Regular training sessions will be provided to staff members to ensure that they are aware of their responsibilities in safeguarding privacy and maintaining confidentiality. This will include educating staff on data protection principles, confidentiality obligations, and best practices.

Non-Compliance

Any breaches or potential breaches of confidentiality must be promptly reported to the Designated Safeguarding Lead. Non-compliance with this policy may result in disciplinary action, in accordance with nursery policies and procedures.

GDPR (the General Data Protection Regulation) condenses the Data Protection Principles into six areas, referred to as the Privacy Principles. These are:

1. We must have a lawful reason for collecting personal data and must do it fairly and transparently.
2. We must only use the data for the reason it was initially obtained.
3. We must not collect any more data than is necessary.
4. Data has to be accurate and there must be mechanisms in place to keep it up-to-date.
5. We cannot keep data any longer than needed.
6. We must protect personal data.

These privacy principles are supported by a further principle: accountability.

This means our setting must not only do the right thing with data in line with the Privacy Principles but must also show that all the correct measures are in place to demonstrate how compliance is achieved.

We continuously train our staff on data protection. Documentation of policies, procedures, and training is a key part of our compliance program.

The Data Protection Act (DPA) was brought into law in 1998 with the intention of governing the way that organisations process and manage data on living identifiable individuals. This data is often referred to as “personal data”.

Personal data includes:

• Children’s names, dates of birth, addresses, allergies, and medical information
• Parents’ names, addresses, and bank details
• Staff information such as bank details, national insurance numbers, and qualifications

‍

Who can request access to personal data?

All staff members and parents have the right to access personal information related directly to them which is being processed or stored. They also have the right to request changes to be made to personal information about them if the data we hold is not accurate or up-to-date.

We will need permission from the relevant individual if we wish to share personal data with an outside organisation. However, if we have a child protection concern, we can consult the relevant authorities without asking for consent from the parents of that child.

‍

How do we comply?

Our GDPR Policy outlines what measures we take to comply with the Data Protection Act. It also describes what actions staff must take if they think there has been a breach, and how individuals can access information relating to them.

‍

What should happen if a staff member thinks their setting breaches the DPA?

If a member of staff thinks that there has been a violation of these rules, they must notify the Data Controller as soon as possible and give them details of the breach. It is then the responsibility of the Data Controller to investigate and then either rectify or report any violations of the Data Protection Act to the ICO.

Privacy Notices‍

When we collect any data we tell people exactly how we are going to use it, who we might share it with, and how long we will keep it for as well as information on consent and complaint.

Individual Rights

People now have new and enhanced rights on the collection, access, and deletion of their data, so we ensure our setting has mechanisms to allow individuals to exercise these rights.

Consent

GDPR requires early years providers to have a legitimate reason for processing any personal data. Where we rely on consent for processing data, we ensure that the consent is freely given.

Breach Notification

We are obligated to notify the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) of a data breach within 72 hours of becoming aware of the breach.

This policy outlines the requirements for record retention by data protection laws. We are legally obligated to keep certain records about children, parents, and staff members for a specific period. This policy should be used in conjunction with the Confidentiality Policy, Online Policy and the GDPR Policy.

‍

Statutory Retention Periods (Compulsory)

Accident books; accident records/reports: 3 years from the date of the last entry (or, if the accident involves a child/ young adult, then until that person reaches the age of 25)

Income tax and NI returns; income tax records and correspondence with HMRC: Not less than 3 years after the end of the financial year to which they relate

Medical records as specified by the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH): 40 years from the date of the last entry

Statutory Maternity Pay records, calculations, certificates (Mat B1s) or other medical evidence: 3 years after the end of the tax year in which the maternity period ends

Wage/salary records (also overtime, bonuses, expenses): 6 years

National minimum wage records: 3 years after the end of the pay reference period following the one that the records cover

Records relating to working time: 2 years from the date on which they were made

Safeguarding Records and Cause for Concern Forms: Safeguarding records and cause for concern forms will be passed on to the child's new educational establishment. If the nursery is not informed of the child's new placement, the records will be kept until the child reaches 25 years old.

Reportable Deaths, Injuries, Diseases, or Dangerous Occurrences: Retained until the child reaches the age of 21 years and 3 months, as these incidents may have potential legal implications

Signing-in Child: The signing-in proof will be retained for up to 24 years as part of the child protection trial.

‍

Non-Statutory Retention Periods

Recruitment - application forms and interview notes (for unsuccessful candidates): 1 year

Assessments under health and safety regulations: Permanent and Ongoing 

Records of consultations with safety representatives and committees: Permanent and Ongoing 

Inland Revenue/HMRC approvals: Permanent and Ongoing 

Parental Leave: 5 years from birth/adoption of the child or 18 years if the child receives a disability allowance

Personnel files and Training Records (including disciplinary records and working time records): 6 years after employment ceases

Redundancy details, calculations of payments, refunds, and notification to the Secretary of State: 6 years from the date of redundancy

At MEplace, we prioritise the safety and well-being of children, staff, and families when using the internet. We acknowledge the benefits and potential risks associated with online activities and strive to promote safe internet usage. This policy outlines our commitment to online safety and provides guidelines to ensure the protection of all individuals within our nursery community.

‍

Responsibilities

The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) holds ultimate responsibility for addressing online safety concerns. Any concerns should be promptly reported to the DSL. 

‍

Risk Categories

Online safety encompasses various risks, which can be categorised as follows:

Content

Exposure to illegal, inappropriate, or harmful material, including pornography, fake news, and extremist views.

Contact 

Harmful interactions with other users, such as commercial advertising or interactions with adults posing as children or young adults.

Conduct

Personal online behaviour that may cause harm, including sharing explicit images or engaging in online bullying.

Commerce

Risks such as online gambling, inappropriate advertising, phishing and or financial scams.

‍

Safety Measures

To ensure the online safety of children, staff, and parents, we have implemented the following measures:

Technical Measures

• Installing and regularly updating appropriate antivirus and antispyware software on all devices.
• Activating content blockers and filters on all nursery devices, including computers, laptops, tablets, and mobile devices.
• Ensuring all devices are password-protected with secure screen locks. 
• Reminding staff members to use strong passwords, keep them confidential, change them regularly, and avoid writing them down.
• Monitoring internet usage throughout the nursery.
• Securely storing all nursery devices at the end of each day.
• Prohibiting the installation of social media or messaging apps on nursery devices; the nursery manager and deputies carry out regular checks on devices. 
• Conducting regular reviews of downloaded apps and games to ensure age-appropriate and suitable content.
• Exclusively using nursery devices for recording and photographing children within the nursery.

Education and Supervision

• Educating children on safe online practices.
• Providing supervised internet access for educational purposes while using connected devices.
• Discussing the concept of "stranger danger" with children and differentiating between real-life acquaintances and online "friends."
• Conducting staff training on online safety.
• Staff members model safe technology practices and strictly adhere to an acceptable use policy, limiting device use to matters relating to children's education and care. 
• Strictly prohibiting personal device usage at all times within the nursery except the staff room/reception.

Privacy and Reputation Management

• Ensuring that personal and financial information is never shared via email.
• Reporting emails containing inappropriate content to the DSL. 
• Managing and monitoring our digital reputation by ensuring appropriate and professional content is posted online.
• Using official nursery communication channels, via the Famly app and telephone calls, for all electronic communication between staff and parents.
• Providing guidance and support to parents regarding online safety at home, including appropriate sources of support and reporting mechanisms for online safety concerns.

‍

Incident Reporting and Support

Any online safety concerns will be addressed following our Safeguarding Children and Child Protection Policy. The DSL will:

• Ensure all staff members are aware of reporting procedures and escalation processes, including external referral procedures.
• Log, assess, and take necessary action on all concerns in accordance with our safeguarding procedures.
• Support parents in developing their knowledge of online safety issues and provide resources for discussing online safety with their children.
• Signpost parents to appropriate sources of support regarding online safety at home.
• Ensure staff members have access to information and guidance on online safety for personal and professional use.
• Enforce the strict prohibition of any staff member, whether at work or elsewhere, from engaging in illegal activities, such as accessing or distributing child sexual abuse material.

‍

Cyber Security

This policy should be read in conjunction with our Data Protection and Confidentiality Policy, Acceptable Internet Use Policy, and GDPR Privacy Notice. To maintain cyber security, staff members are reminded to:

• Back up sensitive data regularly.
• Use strong passwords and protect devices to safeguard personal and sensitive information.
• Exercise caution when receiving suspicious messages and report them to the manager promptly.
• Report suspicious messages through the DSL.

‍

Regular Review

This policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with relevant regulations. Updates or amendments will be made in consultation with nursery management, and all staff members will be informed of any changes.

At MEplace, we comply with the requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Statutory Framework. One of the overarching principles of the EYFS is that children learn and develop well in enabling environments. To implement this, we plan trips where children can explore and develop a better understanding of the world around them. At MEplace, we offer children a range of local outings, including walks and visits off the premises. We believe that planned outings and visits complement and enhance the learning opportunities inside the nursery environment and extend children’s experiences.

‍

Procedure

• A senior staff member (Room Leader or Management Team Member) will visit the chosen venue in advance of the outing to ensure its suitability for the children's age, stage, and developmental needs. This proactive approach ensures the safety and appropriateness of the venue.
• The senior member of staff will conduct a comprehensive risk assessment. This thorough assessment aims to identify and evaluate any potential risks or hazards that may affect the children during the outing. Steps will be outlined to effectively mitigate, minimize, or manage these risks and hazards.
• Permission will be obtained from parents before taking children out. The permissions can be checked on Famly. Permissions from parents must be checked before the outing.
• Adequate staff-to-child ratios must be maintained at all times.
• No child will be left unsupervised at any time.
• Safety must be maintained at all times.
• Staff are assigned specific children to look after during the outing.
• Children must wear high-visibility vests with the nursery's telephone number displayed on each child's vest.
• Children must hold on to the safety rope at all times when walking. There must always be at least two staff members, one leading the children and one behind them, as a safety precaution. 
• Children and staff must wear appropriate clothing and footwear; staff will also wear high-visibility jackets.
• Drinking water must be carried by staff and available at all times.
• Staff must take a headcount of all children before leaving the nursery, at the venue, when leaving the venue and finally back at the nursery.
• At the venue, staff will discuss age-appropriate safety rules with the children.
• Essential documents must be taken, e.g. dietary requirements, allergies, and medical information.
• Essential medication must be taken, including epi-pens and asthma pumps.
• Contact/emergency information for all children must be taken on the outing (to be accessed through the Famly app).
• Teachers will mark children on an outing on Famly.
• A complete first aid kit must be taken on all outings.
• At least one staff member on every outing must have paediatric first aid training.
• In the event of an accident, staff will assess the situation. If required, the group will return to the nursery immediately, and parents will be contacted to collect their child. In the event of a serious accident, an ambulance will be called at the scene, and parents will be contacted. One staff member will accompany the child to the hospital, and the rest will return to the nursery. The Manager must be made aware and arrangements will be made for a staff member to join the group on the outing to return to the nursery safely. 
• Individual healthcare plans (IHCPs) must be taken for children with IHCPs along with any medication.
• The nursery mobile phone must be fully charged and taken on all outings.
• Staff must comply with the Missing Child policy and follow the procedures should a child go missing.

Missing child

In the event of a child going missing, the Missing Child will be followed. Any incidents or accidents will be recorded in writing, and Ofsted will be contacted and informed of any incidents.

‍

In the event of an emergency

In the event of an emergency whilst out on a visit, we encourage staff to find a safe shelter and remain there until the danger passes. If necessary, the police will be contacted if it is safe to do so. Each outing will have a detailed risk assessment, which covers all of these risks and is planned. We will contact the parents of the children on the visit when it is safe to do so.

Ofsted will be contacted and informed of any incidents.

‍

Photography Note

Our primary focus during outings is to ensure the safety and engagement of the children. We do not prioritise taking pictures of the children during outings and educational visits.

At MEplace, we recognise the importance of outdoor play and physical development. We are committed to ensuring all children have daily access to this, regardless of their age or stage of development. Where possible, this includes children having daily access to the outdoors. We make reasonable adjustments where required, in line with the Equality Act 2010. We go out to play with all children in all weathers (unless it is deemed unsafe).

We understand the vital role that learning outdoors has on children’s learning and development, as well as the importance of regular access to outdoor play for keeping fit and healthy, developing children’s large and fine motor skills, and experiencing learning in a natural environment. 

The outdoor areas, both within the nursery grounds and in the local community, provide a wealth of experiences and resources which help children to learn and develop skills in a variety of ways, including independence, exploration and investigative skills, risk-taking and self-esteem. These areas support children to develop skills now and in the future.

We take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of children through risk assessments whilst balancing the benefits of learning through providing an element of ‘risky play.’ This type of play allows children to explore and find their boundaries in a safe environment with supportive teachers. Staff are informed of the importance of safety procedures and are trained appropriately to ensure these procedures are followed effectively.

We ensure outdoor play is always fully supervised, and we have robust safety checks in place, including head counts.

At MEplace, we have an adverse weather policy to ensure our nursery is prepared for all weather conditions that might affect the nursery's operation, such as floods, snow, and heat waves.

If these impact the nursery's ability to open or operate, we will contact parents via Famly Post.

We will not take children outdoors where we judge that weather conditions make it unsafe to do so.

‍

Use of Approved Products (Suncream) 

To ensure the health and safety of all children attending our nursery, parents must not bring homemade sun cream or any other personal sun care products, including any products brought in from home, onto the premises. We provide and use approved sun protection products to ensure consistency and effectiveness in safeguarding children from sun exposure.s. We understand that parents may have specific preferences or concerns regarding the use of certain products. However, using homemade sun cream poses potential risks in terms of effectiveness, SPF protection, and potential allergies or adverse reactions that could affect the well-being of other children.

Many children attending our nursery have unique medical conditions, allergies, or sensitivities. Our responsibility is to maintain a controlled environment to prevent any potential allergic reactions or adverse effects. By utilising approved sun creams that have been tested and deemed suitable for sensitive skin, we can ensure the well-being of all children under our care.

‍

Collaboration with Parents

We understand that parents may have concerns or questions about the sun creams used in our nursery. We are committed to open communication and encourage parents to discuss their preferences and any specific concerns with our staff. We will gladly provide information on the approved sun creams used at the nursery and address any queries regarding ingredients, SPF protection, or potential allergies.

MEplace is committed to ensuring all children are safe and receive the highest level of care at all times. We have procedures in place to ensure all children are accounted for at all times. In the unlikely event that a child goes missing, we will follow the procedures outlined.

Procedure

1. If a child goes missing on the premises

• Once we notice a child is missing, the child’s key person will notify the Nursery Manager.
• The Nursery Manager will report the missing child to the police and then inform the child’s parents.
• The Nursery Manager will conduct a thorough search of the premises.
• Class teachers will do a headcount to ensure all other children are present.
• The Nursery Manager will speak to staff to investigate when and where the child was last seen and will record this.
• The Nursery Manager will report the incident to the Director, who will investigate the incident.
  

‍

2. If a child goes missing on an outing

• Once we notice a child is missing, children will be asked to stand with their key person and staff will carry out a headcount to ensure no other child is missing.
• One member of staff will conduct a thorough search of the area.
• The incident will be reported to the Nursery Manager.
• The Nursery Manager will report the incident to the police and then inform the child’s parents.
• The Nursery Manager will advise the parents to meet at the nursery.
• Staff will take the other children on the outing back to the nursery.
• If this happens at an indoor venue, staff will carry out a headcount and inform the venue’s security, who will take over the search and report the incident to the police if the child is not found.
• The Nursery Manager will inform the Director, who will investigate the incident.
  

‍

Investigation

• Staff must remain calm so as not to elevate any anxiety or worry in other children.
• The Nursery Manager, together with the Director, will notify parents.
• The director will carry out a full investigation, taking written statements from all staff present at the time.
• The key person responsible for the child will write an incident report detailing:

1. The date and time

2. Which staff and children were present

3. When the child was last seen

4. What took place since the child went missing

5. The estimated time the child went missing

• The incident report will be used to determine the breach in security. If the incident requires police investigation, the police will handle all aspects of the investigation including interviewing staff. The local authority may be involved if there is reason to believe there is a child protection issue to address. The incident will be reported to Ofsted and RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences).

‍

Staff Responsibilities 

• Staff must not discuss the incident when children are present.
• If children do ask questions, we expect staff to answer honestly while reassuring them.
• The Nursery Manager or Director will inform parents of any missing child incidents and handle any questions or concerns parents may have.
• We understand that such an unsettling event may leave staff feeling anxious. The Director and Nursery manager will make arrangements to support staff.
• Staff must not discuss a missing child incident with the press. The Director will appoint a spokesperson who will handle all press-related matters.

At MEplace, we understand the importance of sleep and rest for a child's development. Our Sleep and Rest Policy is designed to ensure that each child receives adequate sleep and rest in a safe and nurturing environment.

‍

Settling Down for Naps

Our trained staff members assist children in settling down for their naps. They provide comfort and support to help children transition from their active playtime to restful sleep. As part of this process, we ensure that no strings or loose objects are present around the children during their sleep and rest time to prevent the risk of suffocation.

‍

Continuous Check-ins

Our staff members regularly check on sleeping children to ensure their safety and well-being. We monitor their sleeping position, room temperature, and overall comfort during nap times. There is always a minimum of two team members present in the designated sleeping area while the children are sleeping. All sleeping or resting children are visually monitored to ensure their safety. We carry out sleep checks every 15 minutes for all sleeping children. To do a sleep check, follow these steps:

1. Go to the sleep status of the child.
2. Choose "Checked now."

Please note that sleep checks are not visible to parents. 

‍

Sleeping Environment

We provide clean, light bedding and blankets to ensure children are appropriately dressed for sleep and to avoid overheating. To ensure their safety and comfort, we only use safety-approved firm and flat mats in conjunction with a clean fitted sheet and a blanket. Each child has their own labelled bag to store their weekly bedding, which includes a fitted sheet and blanket. We ensure that each child receives a washed set of bedding weekly. We ensure that no strings or loose objects are present around the children during their sleep and rest time to prevent the risk of suffocation.

‍

Sleep Records and Parent Communication

We maintain a record of each child's nap times on the Famly app. Parents will receive notifications through the app regarding their child's sleep duration and any significant observations made during this time. This allows parents to stay informed about their child's rest periods and ensures open communication between the nursery and families.

‍

Nap Time Flexibility

While we encourage children to have a nap after lunch, we understand that each child has different needs. Sleep time is not mandatory and we ensure that our daily activities are designed to meet the individual needs of each child throughout the day. We respect and accommodate children who may have different sleep patterns or preferences. 

‍

Respecting Natural Sleeping Patterns

We aim to support and respect each child's natural sleeping patterns. If a child shows signs of tiredness outside of the designated nap time, we provide a quiet and cosy space where they can rest. We understand the importance of following their cues and adapting to their individual needs. We also understand the importance of providing a gentle approach to help children fall asleep. When patting children on the back during nap time, our caring staff members do so for approximately 5 minutes and never longer than 10 minutes. If a child doesn't fall asleep within that time, we respect their individual needs and preferences. We allow them to return to their room, ensuring a nurturing and responsive approach to their sleep habits. Our goal is to create a calm and supportive environment that promotes restful 

sleep for each child.

‍

Milk before sleep time 

In the case of children aged between 1 and 2 years who consume oat or breast milk before sleeping time, a staff member must be present nearby. This staff member is responsible for supervising the children during this activity, and also for promptly removing the bottle from the child's area when the child falls asleep, finishes the bottle, or no longer wishes to continue drinking from it. This precaution is taken to ensure the safety and comfort of our younger children during their bedtime routine.

‍

Personalised Approach

We recognise that each child is unique and may have specific sleep requirements. Our staff members work closely with parents to understand their child's sleep routine, preferences, and any specific instructions or considerations. This personalised approach allows us to provide tailored support to each child during their sleep and rest periods.

Definition

Intimate care can be defined as any care which involves washing, touching or carrying out a procedure on intimate personal areas which most people usually carry out themselves but some pupils are unable to do because of their young age, physical difficulties or other special needs. Examples include care associated with continence and menstrual management as well as more ordinary tasks such as help with washing, toileting or dressing. It also includes supervision of pupils involved in intimate self-care.

‍

Principles

At MEplace we take seriously our responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of the children and young people in our care. Meeting a pupil’s intimate care needs is one aspect of safeguarding.

We recognise that there is a need to treat all children, whatever their age, gender, disability, religion, ethnicity or sexual orientation, with respect and dignity when intimate care is given.  The child’s welfare is of paramount importance and their experience of intimate and personal care should be a positive one. It is essential that every pupil is treated as an individual and that care is given gently and sensitively; no child should be attended to in a way that causes distress or pain.

Staff will work in close partnership with parents/carers and other professionals to share information and provide continuity of care.

Where children with complex and/or long-term health conditions have an Individual Health Care Plan in place, the plan should, where relevant, take into account the principles and best practice guidance in this Intimate Care Policy.

Members of staff must be given the choice as to whether they are prepared to provide intimate care to pupils.

All staff undertaking intimate care must be given appropriate training.

This Intimate Care Policy has been developed to safeguard children and staff. It applies to everyone involved in the intimate care of children.

‍

Child-focused principles of intimate care

The following are the fundamental principles upon which the Policy and Guidelines are based:

• Every child has the right to be safe.
• Every child has the right to personal privacy.
• Every child has the right to be valued as an individual.
• Every child has the right to be treated with dignity and respect.
• Every child has the right to be involved and consulted in their own intimate care to the best of their abilities.
• Every child has the right to express their views on their own intimate care and to have such views taken into account.
• Every child has the right to have levels of intimate care that are as consistent as possible.

‍

Best Practice

Children who require regular assistance with intimate care have written Individual Education Plans (IEP), health care plans or intimate care plans agreed upon by staff, parents/carers and any other professionals actively involved, such as school nurses or physiotherapists. Ideally, the plan should be agreed upon at a meeting at which all key staff and the pupil should also be present wherever possible/appropriate. 

Any historical concerns (such as past abuse) should be taken into account. The plan should be reviewed as necessary, but at least annually, and at any time involving a change of circumstances, e.g. for staff changes (where the staff member concerned is providing intimate care). They should also take into account procedures for educational outings/day trips.

Where relevant, it is good practice to use appropriate terminology for private parts of the body and functions. At MEplace, we use scientific names to refer to private parts.

All pupils will be supported to achieve the highest level of autonomy that is possible given their age and abilities.  Staff will encourage each child to do as much for themselves as possible.

Staff who provide intimate care are trained in personal care (e.g. health and safety training in moving and handling) and provide care according to the needs of the child.  Staff should be fully aware of best practices regarding infection control, including the requirement to wear disposable gloves or other PPE where appropriate.

Staff who provide intimate care should speak to the child personally by name, explain what they are doing and communicate with all children in a way that reflects their ages.

Every child's right to privacy and modesty will be respected. Careful consideration will be given to each child’s situation to determine who and how many carers might need to be present when they need help with intimate care. SEND advice suggests that reducing the number of staff involved goes some way to preserving the child’s privacy and dignity. Wherever possible, the child’s wishes and feelings should be sought and taken into account.

An individual member of staff should inform another appropriate adult when they are going alone to assist a child with intimate care. When changing a child, the door of the nappy changing room should never be closed. The door should be open to ensure that this process is visible to multiple members of staff.

Adults who assist children with intimate care should be employees of the nursery, not students or volunteers, and therefore have had the usual range of safer recruitment checks, including enhanced DBS checks.

All staff should be aware of the nursery’s Safeguarding Children and Child Protection Policy. Sensitive information will be shared only with those who need to know.

No member of staff will carry a mobile phone, camera or similar device whilst providing intimate care.

‍

Child Protection

Staff at MEplace recognise that students with special educational needs and who are disabled are particularly vulnerable to all types of abuse. The nursery’s child protection procedures will be adhered to at all times.

From a child protection perspective, it is acknowledged that intimate care involves risks for children and adults as it may involve staff touching private parts of a pupil’s body. At MEplace, best practices will be promoted and all adults (including those who are involved in intimate care and others in the vicinity) will be encouraged to be vigilant at all times, to seek advice where relevant and to take account of safer working practices.

Where appropriate, children will be taught personal safety skills carefully matched to their level of development and understanding.

If a member of staff has any concerns about physical changes in a child’s presentation, e.g. unexplained marks, bruises, etc., they will immediately report concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).  A clear written record of the concern will be completed and a referral made to the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) if appropriate, by our child protection procedures.  Parents/carers will be asked for their consent or will be informed that a referral is necessary before it is made, but this should only be done where such discussion and agreement-seeking will not place the child at increased risk of suffering significant harm.

If a child becomes unusually distressed or very unhappy about being cared for by a particular member of staff, this should be reported to the manager. The matter will be investigated at an appropriate level and outcomes recorded. Parents/carers will be contacted as soon as possible to resolve this.  Staffing schedules will be altered until the issue/s becomes resolved so that the child's needs remain paramount. Further advice will be taken from outside agencies if necessary.

If a child, or any other person, makes an allegation against an adult working at the nursery, this should be reported to the DSL who will consult the Local Authority Designated Officer following the nursery’s policy on Safeguarding Children.  It should not be discussed with any other members of staff or the member of staff the allegation relates to.

Medical Procedures

Pupils who are disabled might require assistance with invasive or non-invasive medical procedures such as the administration of rectal medication and managing catheters or colostomy bags. These procedures will be discussed with parents/carers, documented in the Individual Health Care Plan or Individual Educational Plan, and will only be carried out by staff who have been trained to do so.

It is particularly important that these staff should follow appropriate infection control guidelines and ensure that any medical items are disposed of correctly.

Any members of staff who administer first-aid should be appropriately trained in accordance with Local Authority (LA) guidance. If an examination of a child is required in an emergency first-aid situation, it is advisable to have another adult present, with due regard to the child’s privacy and dignity.

Nappy Changing 

We aim to support children’s care and welfare daily, in line with their individual needs. All children need contact with familiar, consistent carers to ensure that they can grow confidently and feel self-assured. Babies and toddlers will have their nappies changed according to their individual needs and requirements by their key workers wherever possible. Information will be shared between parents and the key person about nappy changing and toilet training in a way that suits the parents. We wish to ensure the safety and welfare of children whilst being changed and to safeguard against any potential harm, as well as ensure the staff members involved are fully supported and able to perform their duties safely and confidently. Through the following actions, we will endeavour to support all parties

‍

Nappy Changing Procedures

• Nappies should be checked on arrival, and, if necessary, changed immediately.
• All children should be changed at least three times a day: in the morning, at lunchtime, and in the afternoon.
• Ideally, the child's key person or secondary key person should handle the nappy change.
• Only staff members with a satisfactory DBS check are permitted to change nappies.
• Soiled nappy changes must be recorded on the Famly app, noting whether it was soiled or a bowel movement, the time of the change, and the initials of the staff member responsible for changing the nappy.
• Children should be changed immediately if their nappy becomes wet or soiled.
• Staff members must wear disposable gloves during each nappy change, dispose of them afterwards and use new gloves for the next change.
• A changing sheet should be placed on the changing mat for each child and the mat should be sprayed with an anti-bacterial solution and wiped clean after each nappy change.
• Staff must wash their hands after each nappy change.

‍

Use of Approved Products

To ensure the health and safety of all children attending our nursery, we kindly request that parents refrain from bringing any nappy cream onto the premises (this also includes homemade ones). We understand that parents may have specific preferences or concerns regarding the use of certain products. However, the use of homemade nappy cream poses potential risks in terms of allergies and adverse reactions that could affect the well-being of other children.

Many children attending our nursery have unique medical conditions, allergies, or sensitivities. It is our responsibility to maintain a controlled environment to prevent any potential allergic reactions or adverse effects. By utilising approved nappy creams that have been tested and deemed suitable for sensitive skin, we can ensure the well-being of all children under our care.

We understand that parents may have concerns or questions about the nappy creams used in our nursery. We are committed to open communication and encourage parents to discuss their preferences and any specific concerns with our staff. We will gladly provide information on the approved nappy creams used at the nursery and address any queries regarding ingredients or potential allergies.

‍

Potty Procedures

• Staff should provide privacy to children using potties by positioning them out of sight from others in the toilet area.
• After use, staff should appropriately dispose of waste in the toilet and clean the potty with an anti-bacterial cleaner immediately.
• Children must wash their hands after using the potty.
• Nursery-provided nappy cream may be used with parental permission recorded on the Famly app, and staff should note on the app when a child is sore and cream has been applied.

‍

General Guidelines

• Staff members must follow child protection procedures if they have any concerns about a child.
• The changing mat should be disinfected with an anti-bacterial spray between each nappy change and allowed to dry naturally or wipe dry with a paper towel.
• Children should never be left unattended on the nappy-changing stand.
• Staff always keep one hand supporting the child when on the stand, to avoid the risk of falling.
• At the end of the day or when the nappy bin is full, nappy bags should be taken outside and placed in the designated nappy waste bins while wearing gloves.
• Soiled underwear should be placed in a nappy sack and kept in the toilet area until the parent collects the child, informing the parent of the condition of the underwear and offering them the choice to keep or dispose of it appropriately.
• If a child needs a change and has no spare underwear, the nursery will provide spare underwear, which the parents can dispose of after use. 

‍

Potty Training 

At MEplace, we understand that being able to use the potty or toilet independently is a significant milestone for children. We believe that it is important for children to feel relaxed and comfortable in their environment before starting their potty training journey. Therefore, children must be fully settled in the nursery before we begin the potty training process. This approach ensures that their well-being is prioritised and that they have a higher chance of success during this developmental stage.

During potty training, our approach is to verbally encourage children to use the potty. We never force children to use the potty or toilet. Each child embarking on their potty training journey will receive frequent reminders throughout the day to listen to their body's signals and attempt to use the potty or toilet. Our caring and supportive staff members will also encourage children to go to the toilet and sit on the potty at designated times. Parents will be kept informed of their child's progress during feedback sessions at the door if requested, and through weekly updates.

Before starting potty training at the nursery, we recommend that children have already developed a level of confidence in using the toilet or potty at home. This includes recognising when they need to go and successfully using the potty, with occasional accidents being a normal part of the learning process. Once children demonstrate this level of readiness and familiarity with using the potty at home, we can begin potty training at the nursery.

Throughout the potty training period, we prioritise maintaining children's self-esteem and confidence. Our dedicated staff members provide support, encouragement, and understanding to help children navigate this transition. We understand that accidents may occur during this learning phase, and we request that parents ensure there are a minimum of five full sets of spare, labelled clothes in their child's bag to accommodate any accidents that may happen.

To facilitate independence during potty training, we encourage parents to dress their children in sensible clothing. This includes choosing clothing that is easy to take off and pull up independently, allowing children to manage their own bathroom needs with minimal assistance.

If a child experiences persistent accidents, typically defined as four or more accidents in a day, and becomes highly distressed, we may use a pull-up nappy temporarily to alleviate their anxiety and stress. This approach is designed to support the child during challenging moments. In cases where persistent accidents continue, we may advise parents to temporarily delay potty training and resume it at a later date to ensure the child's comfort and readiness.

We recommend that parents involve their children in the process by taking them to choose their first set of boy/girl pants or panties. This empowers children to take ownership of their progress and share a sense of responsibility in keeping their underwear dry throughout the day.

At MEplace, we are committed to providing a supportive and nurturing environment during the potty training journey, promoting children's independence and confidence as they reach this important developmental milestone.

There are a lot of books on the market that can be supportive during the process of potty training, such as:

• Pirate Potty Pete
• Princess Polly
• Potty Superstar
• Who’s in the loo?
• And many more

We recommend sharing these frequently to maximise the success of the potty training.

When children go on an educational outing during their potty training, we will put a pull-up nappy on the child. They will, however, be encouraged to use the potty during their outing.

At MEplace, we comply with the Special Educational Needs and Disability Code of Practice (2014). We have procedures in place to identify and support children with special educational needs and disabilities. We have clear arrangements in place for assessing SEND, with a targeted plan to provide support and ensure that every child is fully included in all aspects of the nursery.

We follow the requirements set out in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Statutory Framework and Birth to 5 Matters Guidance. The statutory progress check at age two under the EYFS is a key milestone to assess whether a child is developing at expected levels. Teachers review each child’s development, focusing on communication and language, physical development, and personal, social, and emotional development. The progress check identifies each child’s strengths and any areas where the child’s progress may show signs of delay.

The assessment at the end of the EYFS, when children turn five, is particularly helpful for children with SEND. This informs future learning and identifies any additional needs which require support.

SEND support is available at MEplace to children who have needs which are different from or additional to other children of the same age. Teachers follow the graduated approach to understand each child's needs and the necessary support required.

The Graduated Approach

Assess: An initial assessment based on the prime areas under the EYFS, including the progress check at age 2 together with an 'Initial Record of Concern', providing a summative assessment which covers how to adapt activities or the nursery premises to address the child's needs and determine whether or not a child requires SEND support.

Plan: The special educational needs coordinator (SENDCo), the child’s teacher and the child’s parents work together to gain a better understanding of what teaching approaches work. This plan takes into account the child's interests, level of engagement and potential. It is reviewed regularly and adjusted to best support the child.

Do: This involves implementing strategies and regularly evaluating their effectiveness to best support the child. The nursery SENCO will oversee the implementation and support the child's teacher through the entire process. The SEND Code of Practice (2014) emphasises the responsibility of each teacher when it comes to the day-to-day learning and progress of all children.

Review: This gives the SENCO and the child's teacher a better understanding of what approaches are working and what changes to teaching methods or the nursery premises will better support the child.

Teachers regularly monitor and review the progress and development of all children. Where there are any concerns, teachers will refer to information about the child’s learning and development, formal checks, observations, and detailed assessments. This process will take place together with the SENCO and the child's parents, alongside any specialist advice which may determine whether the child has SEND.

Specialist advice may be provided by a range of professionals, including:

• Health Visitors
• Health professionals, e.g. paediatricians or speech & language therapists
• Portage Education Service
• Educational Psychology Service
• SEND specialist education services for ASD, Speech & Language; or, help from a specialist hearing or visual impairment service
• The SENCO will also work closely with children who show signs of developmental delay
  

The Role of the SENCo involves:

• Working with teachers to develop high-quality and inclusive teaching for all children with special educational needs and disabilities.
• Ensuring children benefit from the highest standard of early years provision, and that families receive the support they need for their child to thrive.
• Highlighting the nursery’s approach to identifying and meeting Special Educational Needs and the needs of children with disabilities, and collaborating with parents and other education, health, and social care professionals to ensure effective provisions are in place.
• Advising and supporting teachers to assess children's particular strengths and weaknesses and to use their assessments effectively
• Supporting teachers to implement the graduated approach.
• Working closely with parents and guardians to meet the needs of children with SEND.
• Acting promptly when a child is not making progress, and working with the child's key worker and parents to identify the best provision for the child to make progress.
• Tracking the progress of all children with SEND and informing parents of any changes.
• Making parents aware of sources of support available for them locally, as set out on the local authority's 'Local Offer' website, and nationally, usually through charitable organisations.
• Monitoring the effectiveness of the provision; making referrals to multi-agency professionals when needed; maintaining a good relationship with the local authority; understanding how the local authority SEND system works; and making full use of the resources available.
• Liaising with professionals and agencies outside the nursery to support children with SEND.
• Supporting teachers to work closely with children, to establish whether learning delays are a result of SEND or due to other factors. For instance, delays from learning English as a second language are not SEND-related.

SEND generally covers four main areas:

• Communication and language
• Cognition and learning
• Social, emotional, and mental health
• Sensory and/or physical needs
  
  

We carry out assessments to determine whether or not children have reached developmental milestones in all four areas. In addition, we adopt the graduated approach while taking all the necessary steps to remove barriers to learning.

We arrange special educational provision for children with SEND, which is designed to help children with special educational needs, or a disability, access our curriculum. The graduated approach is used to support children with SEND and remove barriers to learning. We work closely with parents to establish the support each child needs and keep them informed of any decisions made to best support the child.

We support positive attitudes, so that all children feel valued and confident, and aspire to learn. We teach children to respect others and embrace their unique differences.

We recognise children with SEND are most vulnerable to abuse, particularly children who struggle with expressive language. Teachers working with children with SEND are alert to behavioural changes that might indicate abuse. Teachers are trained to identify signs of abuse and respond in a timely and appropriate manner.

Our SEND support also includes planning and preparing for when children move on to a new setting. To support the transition, the SENCO will meet face-to-face with the child's parents, staff from the new setting, and any other professionals, if necessary, to share information which will inform plans for future activities.

At MEplace, we are committed to preparing children for the modern world by providing them with the freedom to embrace their individuality, while giving them the love, support and care they need. We support positive behaviour patterns. We teach children to be polite, caring and kind.

We support staff to work together with parents to support each child's development, as stated in the Early Years Foundation Stage Statutory Framework.

Our Expectations

We encourage children to respect others and the environment.

We recognise that children spend most of their time at nursery, so we make it a priority to carefully consider how we interact with children to ensure that we influence them in the right way. Teachers must always behave positively when dealing with children, parents, and other members of staff.

We follow set routines for certain activities such as story times, mealtimes, tidying up and outside play, which teach children to adapt to cooperative behaviour.

We teach children to follow our Promoting Positive Behaviour policy. We do this through regular group discussions to promote acceptable behaviour.

It is strictly forbidden for staff to use corporal punishment or use force when caring for children. We do not support the use of discriminatory language or negative labels such as ‘naughty’ and ‘bad’. Teachers must only raise their voices to prevent a serious accident.

‍

Our Consequences

We understand that there will be instances where children display unacceptable behaviour - this includes hurtful actions, inappropriate language, or bullying. We manage this by explaining why their behaviour is unacceptable and how it affects others.

We prefer to correct children in a positive way which allows them to reflect on their behaviour. We always explain to children why their behaviour is unacceptable. This may involve taking a child away from the group to avoid distractions, or during instances when a child's behaviour begins to disrupt the learning/playtime or threatens the safety of other children. Taking a child away from the group will never be used as a threat or punishment, and a teacher will always be with the child.

When children disagree, instead of forcing them to say sorry we teach children to be mindful of others. We support children by asking questions. We often ask children to decide how they would like to make up. This could be by hugging, shaking hands or as they get older, saying sorry. We give children the chance to change their behaviour before we intervene. We observe, and if it is necessary, we step in. This gives children the opportunity to change their actions on their own. We understand this approach will not work for all children. We take into consideration their age and adapt our approach to meet their needs.

Children develop by exploring the world and its boundaries, trying new things, and taking on new challenges. This may sometimes involve inappropriate behaviour. We understand this plays a part in how children learn. We are constantly observing the different ways children develop and adapting our approach to meet their individual needs while encouraging acceptable behaviour. This must be considered when children display poor behaviour; by being too quickly disciplined, children may lose their confidence to explore and experiment. Early warnings are used to avoid inappropriate behaviour. We recognise each child is different, and that some children will adjust quicker than others. Each child's key person will support the child at all times.

If a child continues to display unacceptable behaviour and does not respond well to the usual forms of behaviour management in this policy, it will be discussed informally with the child's parents. Following this discussion, a behaviour management support plan will be followed, and the child’s behaviour observed and recorded. A Behaviour Incident Log (ABC Form) will be used to monitor the child’s behaviour.

• A – Action (the events that occurred before the incident took place).
• B – Behaviour (what actually happened).
• C – Consequence (what happened afterwards, how people reacted and how the incident was dealt with).
  

These observations will form the basis of a more ‘in-depth’ meeting with the child’s parents, the key person, the Nursery Manager and, if necessary, the nursery SENDCo and any further action will be agreed upon.

The behaviour management support plan will contain the child's details, previously-known concerns, key behaviour difficulties, a teaching plan, the provision needed, the reviewing progress, how to respond to difficulties, monitoring arrangements, parental involvement and reviewing arrangements.

This will be reviewed regularly with the key teacher, the child's parents, and, where necessary, the SENDCo.

The child’s teacher will then develop a plan to manage the child’s behaviour which can include:

• Teaching alternative or more appropriate patterns of behaviour.
• Adjusting the environment or the child’s schedule to decrease their exposure to triggers.
• Temporarily giving the child more individual attention.
• Paying extra attention to, supporting and praising the desired behaviour.
• Ensuring the need which the child is trying to communicate is addressed.
• Communicating this plan to everyone caring for the child.
  
  

Should a child’s disruptive behaviour become persistent and a cause for concern, we will speak to the child's parents. The discussion will provide clear information, covering the potential issues and considering whether potential support from other professionals may be necessary. All meetings will have clear aims and will be recorded, and a copy sent to all parties involved. The nursery will assist and support the parents and the child through this process. If the child shows behaviour that endangers the safety of teachers and/or children, we may consider suspending the child from the nursery.

There may be instances where a young child may pick up words or phrases which are unacceptable. We recognise that we will have to adapt our approach depending on the age of the child involved. Very young children may repeat inappropriate words heard outside the nursery. If such an incident occurs, we will simply explain to the child why such words are inappropriate. This will also be discussed with the child's parents to prevent continued use.

If repeated or uttered by an older child, we will take a similar approach to prevent continued use. However, if the child continues to use unacceptable language, influencing other children in the nursery or continuing to behave in an abusive manner, the Nursery Manager will have to consider whether the child should be suspended from the nursery.
‍

Working in Partnership

We encourage parents and teachers to discuss any concerns they may have about their child’s development.

‍

Anti-bullying Statement

We aim to prevent bullying through discussions during ‘Circle Time’ and activities which teach children the importance of kindness. If incidents of bullying occur, they will be dealt with and documented as a behaviour incident in line with this policy.

‍

Communication

All discussions around a child's behaviour must be treated as confidential. We expect all staff to comply with the procedures outlined in our Behaviour and Confidentiality Policy.

‍

Physical Intervention

Staff must never use physical intervention when caring for children, except to prevent personal injury to a child or an adult or to prevent property damage. If physical intervention is used to manage a child’s behaviour, staff must inform the child's parents and record this in the child's file.

‍

Supporting Children's Imaginative Expression 

Gun and Superhero Play

We understand that children often participate in expressive types of play, such as gun and superhero play, to make sense of the world around them. Their interest may arise from various sources, such as movies, TV characters, online gaming, or personal experiences. To ensure that gun and superhero play is appropriately supported within our nursery, we have established the following procedures:

1. Positive Reinforcement
   Our staff gives equal positive praise to children engaged in gun and superhero play as they do for children engaged in other activities, promoting inclusivity and acknowledging the value of their interests.
2. Rule Establishment
   We engage with children to establish clear rules for gun and superhero play, ensuring that all participants can engage safely and respectfully.
3. Storytelling
   We use superhero play as an opportunity to tell stories, encouraging children to explore narratives and enhance their creativity.
4. Real-Life Heroes
   We introduce children to real-life heroes, discussing the qualities and characteristics that make someone a hero. We create displays showcasing heroes who positively impact children's lives, broadening their understanding of heroism beyond fictional characters.
5. Action Figures and Capes
   We provide action figures and capes (squares of material) in our continuous provision, allowing children to incorporate props into their play and further enhance their imaginative experiences. We welcome donations of unwanted superhero costumes from parents to expand children's options.
6. Conflict Resolution
   We facilitate age and stage-appropriate discussions on conflict resolution, equipping children with different solutions for resolving conflicts that may arise during their play.
7. Sensitivity to Trauma
   We are sensitive to the needs of children and families who may have experienced trauma. In such cases, we seek the support of external professionals to ensure the well-being of all involved and to provide appropriate support for these children.

‍

Conduct of Adults

Parents and teachers must be mindful of the type of conversations they have when children are present. If there is a disagreement, it must be addressed in private away from children.

We expect parents and head office staff to treat all nursery staff with respect. We expect the same level of respect from all nursery staff in return.

We do not tolerate verbal or physical abuse. If a parent has a grievance to discuss, this must be done in private with the Nursery Manager.

Staff must not challenge senior staff in front of children or other staff members.

Any concerns must be discussed in private or raised via the internal complaint form.

A breach of this policy will be treated seriously and may lead to disciplinary action.

MEplace is committed to promoting equal opportunities within the nursery. We are dedicated to providing equal opportunities and tackling discrimination on the grounds of age, disability, gender assignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or cultural belief, gender, and sexual orientation.

We aim to provide every opportunity for children to reach their full potential and through this help children to develop positive self-esteem. 

We value diversity and inclusion. We have a diverse staff team and cater to children and families of different backgrounds. MEplace is greatly enriched by the distinctive differences in backgrounds and experiences that our teachers and children bring to the nursery.

‍

Equal opportunities for children who enrol in the nursery

At MEplace, we are committed to:

1. An inclusive environment where children are supported to express their individuality.
2. Celebrating and acknowledging a variety of festivals to promote our commitment.
3. Providing a secure environment where all children can flourish.
4. Making reasonable adjustments for children with special educational needs and disabilities.
5. The removal of physical barriers that prevent access to our service.
6. Sensitivity towards individual needs, characteristics, backgrounds, and aspirations.
7. Ensuring positive role models are displayed through toys, imaginary play, and activities that promote non-stereotyped images.
8. Embracing diversity and inclusion in recruitment, training, and promotion, and ensuring fair treatment for all job applicants and employees, regardless of age, gender, orientation, class, ability, ethnicity, religion, or belief, unless essential for safety and effectiveness. Our commitment reflects our community's diversity, creating an inclusive environment where everyone's contributions are valued.
9. Continually improving our knowledge and understanding of issues of equality, inclusion, and diversity.
10. Regularly reviewing, monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of our inclusive practices to ensure that they promote and value diversity and difference and that the policy is effective and practices are non-discriminatory.
11. Ensuring fair and even application of policies and procedures.

At MEplace, we are dedicated to providing quality care for children under the age of two, as well as preschool children. Our primary focus is ensuring their health, safety, and overall well-being through a range of measures outlined in this policy.

‍

Implementation of EYFS Requirements

We adhere to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) requirements at all times, providing a separate base room for babies and toddlers with a maximum capacity of 45 children. We maintain a minimum staff-to-child ratio of 1:3 in this room, allowing for individualised attention and care. Each toddler is assigned a key person who works in partnership with their parents to meet their specific needs and routines.

‍

Qualified and Knowledgeable Staff

Our staff members are well-qualified and have a deep understanding of the unique needs of toddlers. We ensure that all of the staff caring for children under the age of two have received specific training for working with this age group. This expertise enables us to provide appropriate care and support to promote children’s development.

‍

Safe and Stimulating Environment

We prioritise the safety of our toddlers by conducting daily risk assessments of the environment, equipment, and resources. This includes regular checks to ensure the stability and safety of mats, high chairs, and other furnishings. Our rooms are equipped with door finger-guards to prevent accidents. Outdoor shoes are removed or covered upon entering the toddler areas. Thorough cleaning is carried out regularly to maintain hygiene standards during the day, as well as a daily night cleaning of the premises.

‍

Resources and Activities

To ensure the safety of our toddlers, we take care to prevent their access to small objects that may pose a choking hazard. All activities are closely supervised, and resources or equipment that infants and young children place in their mouths are properly cleaned and sterilised after use. We maintain clean and hygienic resources, including soft furnishings, and follow appropriate guidelines for the use of resources that restrict babies' movement.

‍

Intimate Care

We provide attentive and sensitive care during intimate moments such as nappy changing and toilet training. Nappies are changed according to each child's individual needs in addition to the 3 standard daily changing slots, and toileting practices are discussed and coordinated closely with parents. Our staff ensures that all equipment is prepared and in order, before toddlers are placed on the changing mat. We maintain strict hygiene protocols during intimate care, and the privacy and dignity of the child are always respected.

‍

Sleep

We follow NHS guidelines to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and prioritise safe sleep practices. Each toddler is provided with labelled nursery bedding, which is washed regularly, taking into account any allergies or sensitivities. We use safe sleep mats. Sleep times are closely supervised, and regular checks are carried out to ensure the well-being of sleeping children.

‍
Feeding and Meal Times

Meal times are considered valuable opportunities for bonding and social interaction between caregivers and children. We use appropriate restraints in low/high chairs and never leave children unattended while eating. Young children are encouraged to feed themselves with support, promoting their independence and development. We work closely with parents regarding weaning and provide any necessary support.

At MEplace, we prioritise the overall well-being of children under our care. Wellbeing encompasses physical, emotional and social aspects of a child's life. This policy outlines our commitment to promoting and nurturing children's well-being following the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) guidelines. We aim to create a nurturing environment that supports children's personal, social, emotional, and physical development, which are prime areas of learning and growth.

‍

Physical Wellbeing

We recognise the importance of physical wellbeing and provide the following support:

• Encouraging growth and development through carefully planned curriculum programs that incorporate gross and fine motor play both indoors and outdoors.
• Providing nutritionally balanced meals to ensure children receive a balanced plant-based and nutritious diet.
• Promoting personal hygiene practices, such as hand washing and tooth brushing, by explaining their significance and incorporating them into daily routines.
• Offering quiet and calming areas for rest, sleep, and relaxation to support children's physical and mental well-being.
• Encouraging staff members to make healthy choices regarding their own physical health.

‍

Mental and Emotional Wellbeing

We prioritise children's mental and emotional wellbeing through the following measures:

• Creating a safe environment and fostering the development of self-regulation skills.
• Providing activities that enable children to acknowledge, express, and cope with their feelings and emotions, promotes emotional literacy.
• Supporting children in reducing overwhelming emotions by providing resources and modelling calming strategies.
• Utilising the Promoting Positive Behaviour policy to ensure a consistent and supportive approach from staff.
• Recognising when a child may require additional emotional support and providing one-to-one or small group interventions as needed.
• Teaching children to recognise and manage their emotions from a young age, lays the foundations for lifelong emotional wellbeing.

‍

Social Wellbeing

We promote children's social wellbeing by fostering positive relationships and a sense of belonging through:

• Encouraging strong attachments between children and their key person, fostering a secure and supportive environment.
• Facilitating the development of relationships with peers through various play opportunities, including individual, pair, small group, and large group activities.
• Supporting children in developing compassion, caring approaches, and positive interactions within their social environment.
• Nurturing family connections and recognising the importance of extended family in a child's life.
  ‍

At MEplace, we are committed to providing a holistic approach to children's well-being in our nursery. By addressing children’s physical, emotional and social needs, we strive to create a nurturing environment that supports their growth, development, and overall happiness. 

At MEplace, we are dedicated to promoting the learning and development of all children in our care. We recognise and value each child as an individual, taking into account their unique needs, interests, and developmental stages. Our highly qualified staff plan and provide a challenging and enjoyable learning experience across the seven areas of learning and development, ensuring that every child reaches their maximum potential within their capabilities.

‍

Inclusive Play Environment

We strive to create a positive and inclusive play environment where all children can develop good social skills and gain an appreciation for the multicultural society we live in. Our learning experiences are carefully planned to ensure equality of opportunity for all children and to celebrate diversity.

Personalised Development Records

We maintain personalised records of each child's development, documenting their abilities, progress, interests, weekly highlights and any areas that require additional support. These records enable us to monitor and track each child's growth and provide tailored learning experiences accordingly.

Support for Children with Home Languages other than English

For children whose home language is not English, we take reasonable steps to support their language development and ensure equal learning opportunities. We provide opportunities for children to develop and use their home language during play and learning, while also supporting their English language development. Our aim is to ensure that children are ready to benefit from the opportunities available to them when they enter Year One.

Well-planned and Resourced Educational Programmes

We ensure that our educational programmes are well-planned and adequately resourced to offer depth and breadth across the seven areas of learning. Our programmes provide engaging and challenging experiences that cater to the needs of all children. Planning is based on a secure knowledge and understanding of how to promote the learning and development of young children, taking into account their potential achievements as well as the MEframework.

Implementation of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Statutory Framework

We adhere to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework set by the Department for Education, which sets standards to ensure optimal learning and development for all children. We support and enhance children's learning and development holistically through play-based activities. We regularly review all aspects of learning and development, maintaining a flexible approach that responds quickly to children's individual needs. Our planning incorporates both adult-led and child-initiated learning opportunities, both indoors and outdoors.

‍

MEframework 

At MEplace, our key focuses revolve around promoting social-emotional development, self-discovery, mind and body love and care, environment-conscious behaviours, positive communication, and curiosity about the world. We prioritise supporting children in their experience, expression and management of emotions, fostering the ability to establish positive relationships with others. We encourage self-discovery by helping children to explore their identities and preferences. We emphasise the importance of cultivating good habits, engaging in physical exercise, and practising mindfulness for the well-being of the mind and body. Our nursery promotes environment-conscious behaviours to instil a sense of responsibility towards the planet and sustainable practices. We foster positive communication by teaching children about personal boundaries, celebrating individuality, and embracing diversity. Lastly, we nurture children's curiosity about the world, encouraging them to explore and learn from their surroundings.

‍

Assessment Practices

Assessment is an integral part of our practice, ensuring ongoing evaluation and monitoring of each child's progress. We conduct formative assessments through daily observations, prioritising interaction with the children. Summative assessments occur at set points in the year (3 times from January to December), including assessments upon entry (starting point) and progress checks at age two, in alignment with the Early Years Foundation Stage Profile.

‍

Parental Involvement and Partnership

We recognise parents as the primary educators and encourage their active involvement in their child's learning journey. We establish strong home links to enhance and extend children's learning both within the nursery environment and at home. We regularly communicate with parents through weekly updates, feedback at the door, meetings, sharing updates on their child's progress and involving them in decision-making processes. 

MEplace is committed to providing early learning opportunities that foster the growth and development of each child in our care. By implementing a comprehensive and inclusive approach, supported by effective assessment and strong partnerships with parents, we strive to create an enriching environment that nurtures children's love for learning and prepares them for future educational milestones.

At MEplace, we are dedicated to providing high-quality care and education for all children. Our committed staff members strive to offer the best possible start in life for each child, enabling them to reach their full potential. To ensure the highest quality provision, we adhere to the following practices:

‍

High Expectations

We have high expectations for all children, aiming for the best outcomes in their learning and development.

‍

Building Close Attachments

We form close attachments with children, creating a safe, secure, and happy environment where they can thrive.

‍

Family Engagement

We develop strong relationships with families to collaborate on supporting each child's learning and development. We actively engage with families and support the home learning environment.

‍

Safeguarding and Welfare

We implement all safeguarding and welfare requirements outlined in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) guidelines.

‍

EYFS Learning and Development

We embed the EYFS learning and development requirements, providing a curriculum aligned with the EYFS principles and the seven areas of learning and development.

‍

Reflective Practice

We reflect on all areas of practice and strive to meet the outstanding quality indicators outlined by Ofsted, continuously improving our provision.

‍

EYFS Assessment

We meet the EYFS assessment requirements, ensuring effective planning, observation, assessment, and next steps tailored to each child's needs and interests.

‍

Qualified Staff

We maintain a highly qualified and skilled staff team that understands and delivers high-quality practice, deploying them appropriately to meet the needs of all children.

‍

Vision and Mission

We established and practise the nursery's quality vision, mission, and outcomes.

‍

Pedagogy and Child Development

We prioritise a solid understanding of pedagogy and child development among all practitioners.

‍

High-Quality Stimulating Environment

We provide a high-quality environment and resources, both indoors and outdoors, regularly monitoring and risk-assessing equipment.

‍

Unique Experiences

We offer children wonderful experiences and opportunities that give them the best start in life.

‍

Continuous Professional Development

We value continuous professional development for all staff, accessing training and development to meet the needs of children in the nursery.

‍

Support and Assessment

We support staff in appropriately assessing children's learning and development and take prompt action to provide support when needed.

‍

Quality Improvement and Evaluation

We regularly evaluate the effectiveness of training, monitor practice, and engage in a quality improvement programme to embed high quality throughout the nursery.

‍

Robust Evaluation Process

We operate a robust quality improvement and evaluation process involving all stakeholders, including nursery teams, children, parents, and external partners.

‍

By adhering to these practices, we ensure a consistently high-quality provision at MEplace, where children can thrive and achieve their full potential in a nurturing and enriching environment.

At MEplace, we understand that starting nursery can be a significant change for both the parents and the child. We have developed a settling-in process to ensure a smooth transition and provide support during this important phase.

‍

Overview for Settling-in

Here's is our settling-in process and some tips to help make the experience as positive as possible:

Week 1

During the first week, our focus is on making every child feel comfortable in the nursery environment and building trust with their teacher. The child may not actively participate in the daily nursery routines unless they feel ready to do so.

Week 2

In the second week, we aim to familiarise the child with the nursery's schedule and routines with the support of their teachers. Individualised attention is provided to each child, and you can expect daily verbal feedback from teachers during pick-up time.

Week 3

By the third week, most often, the child will start to have a good understanding of the nursery routines and will actively participate in circle time and focus activities, and make new friends. Parents also receive their child's first weekly report from the child’s key person on Famly, sharing insights into the child’s week at the nursery.

Weeks 4-8

Within four to eight weeks, our goal is for a settling child to feel comfortable in the nursery. However, every child is unique and this process may require more time for some children. During this period, parents receive a child's Settling-In Form from the child’s key person, and you can arrange a 20-minute meeting with the key person to discuss the child's settling-in progress so far. 

‍

Before the first day: 

• Onboarding Email: the settling-in process begins when you receive the MEplace Onboarding Email, which provides essential information and the next steps.
• Child's starter form: you will be asked to fill out your child's starter and allergy form, which helps us to understand their needs and how we can support their transition into MEplace.
• Virtual teacher's meeting: book a virtual meeting with a teacher to get to know them, ask questions, and share information about your child to facilitate a smoother transition. This meeting must be completed before the child attends the setting for the first day.
• Talk about it: have an open and honest conversation with your child about the nursery, explaining what they can expect and what they will be doing.
• Adjusting to a new routine, gradually and as needed: if beginning at nursery requires changes in wake-up times or nap routines, gradually adjust your child's schedule to ease the transition.
• Reading preparation: read books with your child about starting nursery to familiarise them with the concept and address any anxieties they may have.

‍

When parents arrive at the nursery, they must follow these steps:

• Refer to the settling-in times provided in the Onboarding Email for your child's schedule during the settling-in period.
• Upon arrival, a MEplace team member will greet you. Feel free to ask any questions before handing your child over to their teacher.
• Appear positive and confident, as children can sense emotions and this will help them to feel as secure as possible.
• Understand that separation anxiety is normal, and try not to dwell on feelings of guilt. Each child's attachment bond is a sign of their secure relationship with their parents.
• If a child feels distressed about separating from you, acknowledge their feelings and reassure them. The teacher will be there to soothe and engage with the child.
• Offer affectionate gestures like hugs and kisses to comfort your child.

‍

Introduction

At MEplace, we have a yearly transition policy in place to ensure a smooth and timely transition of children from one room to another within the nursery. In line with school term times, the cut-off date for transitioning to the new rooms is the 30th of September each year.

We implement yearly transitions which stems from our commitment to fostering the best possible wellbeing among children. This approach is based on careful consideration of feedback from experienced teachers and a thorough evaluation of the impact of frequent transitions on children's development.

‍

Transition Schedule

Children will transition to a new room or group once a year, specifically during the first week of September. Parents will be notified in advance.

‍

Second Transition 

While our main transition is scheduled in September each year, there may be a second transition where children transition earlier than September. 

‍

Criteria for Secondary Transitions

The following criteria guide the decision-making process for secondary transitions:

• Physical Space & Remodelling: If the nursery space is remodelled to increase availability, it becomes a significant factor.
• Room Availability: The opening of new spots is considered, but it's important to note that a single spot opening may not necessarily lead to a transition.
• Group Transition: Children transition as a group to ensure a smooth and secure experience for the children.

Staff members will work closely with both children and parents to ensure a smooth transition process. Before the transition, parents will receive information and updates about the upcoming changes, including details about the new room, routine, and expectations. Teachers will also provide support and reassurance to children both before and during the transition period to help them adjust and settle into their new environment.

As outlined above, during the academic year, there may be instances where, after careful consideration, we will implement additional transitions. In such cases, we will make every effort to group children in order to ensure a smoother transition process, maintaining our commitment to providing a nurturing and stimulating environment that supports each child's growth and development.

By implementing this yearly transition policy, we aim to create a nurturing and stimulating environment that promotes each child's holistic development and prepares them for future milestones within the nursery.

At MEplace, welcome all parents as partners and support a two-way sharing of information that helps establish trust and understanding. We are committed to supporting parents openly and sensitively and include them as an integral part of the care and early learning team within the nursery. Working together ensures we can meet the individual needs of the family and child and provide the highest quality of care and education.

The key person system supports engagement with all parents and we use strategies to ensure that all parents can contribute to their child’s learning and development. We ask parents to fill in the starter form before the child joins and then parents are given feedback during the settling-in period. Children’s starting points are identified within 6-8 weeks and parents are kept well-informed about their children’s progress. We encourage parents to support and share information about their children’s learning and development at home and the key person seeks to engage them in guiding their child’s development at home too. The key person system ensures all teachers use effective, targeted strategies and interventions to support learning that match most children’s individual needs.

‍

Our Policy

• Generate confidence and encourage parents to trust their instincts and
  judgement regarding their child.
• Welcome nursing mothers. The nursery will make available a private area whenever needed to offer space and privacy to nursing mothers.
• Ensure that all parents are aware of the nursery’s policies and procedures. A detailed parent onboarding will be provided, and our full policy documents will be available to parents at all times on the Parent Hub.
• Maintain regular contact with parents to help us build a secure and beneficial working relationship for their children.
• Support parents in their own continuing education and personal development,
  including helping them to develop their parenting skills and informing them of relevant conferences, workshops and training, where required.
• Inform parents about the range and type of activities and experiences provided for children, the daily routines of the setting, the types of food and drinks provided for children, and ongoing events through the monthly newsletter.
• Operate a key person system to enable parents to establish a close, working relationship with nursery staff and to support two-way information sharing about each child’s individual needs both in the nursery and at home. Parents are given the name of their child’s key person and their role within the first week of their child joining. Parents receive daily updates during the settling-in week. 
• Inform parents regularly about their child’s progress and involve them in shared record keeping. Parents’ meetings are held three times a year, once the ‘learning journey’ of a child is released through Famly. The nursery consults with parents about the times of meetings to avoid excluding anyone.
• Actively encourage parents to contribute to children’s learning through sharing observations, interests and experiences from home. This may be done verbally, by sharing photographs or in written form.
• Agree that the only communication method with parents is via the Famly app. 
• Consider and discuss all reasonable suggestions from parents concerning the care and early learning of their child and nursery operation.
• Make sure all parents have access to our written complaints procedure.
• Respect all families’ religious and cultural backgrounds and beliefs, and
  accommodate any special requirements wherever possible and practical to do so.
• Inform parents how the nursery supports children with special educational needs and disabilities and hold regular meetings to support the child’s development. 
• Find out the needs and expectations of parents. We will do this through regular feedback via questionnaires, suggestion systems and encouraging parents to review working practices. We will evaluate any responses and publish these for parents with an action plan to inform future policy and staff development.

MEplace is committed to promoting consistent attendance, effective communication with parents/guardians, and safeguarding the wellbeing of all children.

This policy outlines our procedures for monitoring attendance, managing absences, booking extra days, and fostering a strong partnership between parents/guardians and our nursery team.

‍

Attendance Monitoring

Parents are required to inform the nursery in advance about holidays or days off and report sickness absences on the Famly platform. Additionally, if a child has not arrived at the nursery by 10:00 AM, parents will be contacted to ensure the child's safety. 

For children with child protection plans or involved in referral processes, any absences will immediately be reported to the Local Authority children's social care team.

‍

Swap Days

We offer parents 5 emergency swap days per year. Parents can also book additional days, subject to availability, by requesting them through the Famly app in advance. This allows for better planning and accommodation of parent requests.

‍

Changing Bookings

Parents are expected to promptly notify the nursery of any desired changes to their child's attendance. MEplace families will be given priority for changing bookings, especially for available days. This prioritisation helps us cater to the needs of our existing families while considering other families interested in joining. MEplace operates on a 2 month notice period for these changes. We might not always be able to accommodate all requested changes, so we reserve the right to refuse the requested changes.

‍

Attendance and Punctuality

Regular attendance and punctuality are strongly encouraged at MEplace Nursery. It is important to promptly notify the nursery in case of lateness, absence, or sickness. Unexplained absences will be followed up on the day with parents to ensure the child's wellbeing.

‍

Partnership with Parents/Guardians

We emphasise effective communication between parents and our nursery staff to support each child's development. In cases of poor attendance, we collaborate with parents to address and improve attendance patterns. Open and ongoing communication allows us to work together in the best interest of the child.

‍

Safeguarding

Very poor attendance can be an indication of neglect and is considered a safeguarding issue. MEplace Nursery is committed to keeping children safe and protected from harm. We maintain regular contact with parents to ensure the wellbeing of children with extended absences and address any concerns promptly

At MEplace we strive to provide the highest quality of care and education for our children and families.We believe that all parents should be treated with care, courtesy and respect.

We hope that at all times, parents are happy and satisfied with the quality and service provided and we encourage parents to voice their appreciation to the staff concerned and/or management. We record all compliments and share these with staff, where appropriate.

We welcome any suggestions from parents on how we can improve our services, and will give prompt and serious attention to any concerns that parents may have. Concerns will be dealt with professionally and promptly to ensure that any issues arising from them are handled effectively and to ensure the welfare of all children. We hope this will enable ongoing cooperative partnership with parents to continually improve the quality of the nursery.

We have a formal procedure for dealing with complaints where we are not able to resolve a concern. Where any concern or complaint relates to child protection, we follow our Safeguarding Children and Child Protection Policy.

‍

Internal complaints procedure

‍

Stage 1 - Share concerns with the child's key person or senior staff; escalate to the manager if needed.

If any parent should have cause for concern or any queries regarding the care or early learning opportunities provided by the nursery, they should in the first instance take it up with the child's key person, a senior member of staff or Room Leader. If this is not resolved, we ask them to discuss this verbally with the Nursery Manager.

‍

Stage 2 - Complete Feedback Form; expect a response within five working days.

If the issue still remains unresolved or parents feel they have received an unsatisfactory outcome, then they must present their concerns in writing as a formal complaint to the Nursery Manager via the Feedback Form. The manager will then investigate the complaint in relation to the fulfilment of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) requirements and report back to the parent within five working days. The manager will document the complaint fully, alongside the actions taken and the related outcome in the complaints log book.

(Most complaints are usually resolved at stage 1 or 2.)

‍

Stage 3 - Formal meeting with the manager and a senior staff member; document and conclude the procedure.

If the matter is still not resolved, the nursery will hold a formal meeting between the manager, parent and a senior staff member to ensure that the complaint is dealt with comprehensively. The nursery will make a record of the meeting and document any actions. All parties present at the meeting will review the accuracy of the record, and be asked to sign to agree to it and receive a copy. This will signify the conclusion of the procedure.

‍

Stage 4 - If unsatisfied, raise the matter with Ofsted for further investigation.

If the matter cannot be resolved to their satisfaction, then parents have the right to raise the matter with Ofsted. Parents are made aware that they can contact Ofsted whenever they have a concern, including at all stages of the complaints procedure. Ofsted is the registering authority for nurseries in England and investigates all complaints that suggest a provider may not be meeting the requirements of the nursery’s registration. It assesses all complaints made and may visit the nursery to carry out a full inspection where it believes requirements are not met.

A record of complaints will be kept in the nursery. The record will include the name of the complainant, the nature of the complaint, the date and time that the complaint was received, actions taken, outcomes of any investigations and any information given to the complainant including a dated response.

The record of complaints is made available to Ofsted on request. We will follow this procedure for any other compliments and complaints received from visitors to the provider, where applicable.

Contact details for Ofsted:

Email: enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk

Telephone: 0300 123 1231

By post: Ofsted, Piccadilly Gate, Store Street, Manchester, M1 2WD

For the safety of the children within our care, we must know who will be picking up children from the nursery.

It is the parent’s responsibility to inform us if someone different to usual will be picking up their child. The communication from the child’s parents must take place via the Famly app, and it must include the reason why the parents cannot pick up the child themselves and the duration of the pick-ups by the unfamiliar person. This communication is expected to happen every time an unfamiliar person picks up a child for the first time. We require the following information to be uploaded on Famly under the ‘Contacts’ Section if an unfamiliar person will be picking up the child:

• Full name
• Picture
• Name
• Contact number/s
  

A form of physical photo ID must be brought with the unfamiliar person collecting the child, e.g. their driving licence or passport. This is to ensure that the team member releasing the child to the person has cross-checked the name and picture on the child’s Famly profile (under ’Contacts’) against the person’s ID.

These details are checked before the child is released. If no form of ID is presented or if the unfamiliar person is not listed as a contact on Famly, the child will not be released.

We also ask that the person collecting is 18 years old or above. We do not take responsibility for the child once they have left the nursery with the specified person after the Famly profile and ID have been cross-checked. 

‍

Unauthorised Person

If someone unauthorised arrives at the nursery, and we have no information about that person from the parents, management will be informed. If the unauthorised person is here to pick up a child, management will call the parents to get permission and the necessary details. The child will not be released without permission from the parents, which consists of adding the person as a Famly contact and a physical ID with a picture being checked by a member of the management team. If the unauthorised person is here for no valid reason, they will be asked to leave the nursery; if they refuse, the police will be called.

Please be aware that the same procedure applies even when a MEplace parent is collecting another child from the nursery.

Please note that once the person is listed on the child’s Famly emergency contacts, they will be able to pick up the child at all times, following the initial time that their physical photo ID is checked. However, the MEplace Management Team may request to cross-check the unfamiliar person’s ID as needed before pick-up.

Our commitment to ensuring the safety of the children in our care is of paramount importance. Therefore, we have implemented a meticulous procedure to verify the identity of authorised individuals before releasing a child. A verbal confirmation from the person picking up the child or from the parents is not sufficient. Our team conducts a thorough cross-reference of the information provided in the Famly profile against the identification credentials presented by the authorised individual.

In situations where a person does not possess a physical form of identification, we maintain a stringent policy of not releasing the child. This unwavering approach underscores our steadfast dedication to upholding the safety and security of the children entrusted to our care.

We are committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all children within our care. In the event that a child has not been picked up at the end of the day, we will follow the procedures outlined below to ensure the child receives the highest standard of care.

Parents must call or message on Famly to inform the nursery if they are unable to pick up their child as planned.

Our Child Protection procedure will be followed if a child is not picked up by an authorised person within an hour after the nursery has closed and staff can no longer care for the child within the nursery.

If a child is not picked up at closing time, we will call and email the child’s parents.

If this is unsuccessful, we will contact the child’s emergency contact.

All reasonable attempts will be made to contact the child's parents and nominated guardians.

The child will not be released to anyone other than the parents and those named as the child's emergency contact.

‍

Uncollected Child

If the child is not picked up after one hour and we cannot get through to an authorised guardian, then we will contact the children's social care emergency duty team within the council (see emergency contact list).

The child will remain at nursery within the care of one of our teachers until the child is safely picked up by the parents or a social worker from the Council.

The social care team will make every effort to contact the child’s parents; if this is unsuccessful the local authority will look after the child.

Under no circumstances should staff take the child home.

A full written report of the incident will be recorded on the child’s profile on Famly which will remain confidential and only accessible by the DSL and nominated individual.

MEplace does not provide a babysitting place outside of our opening hours. We are aware that some parents may wish to ask teachers and other staff to babysit their children. MEplace staff are not allowed to enter into any private paid arrangements with MEplace parents. If this advice is ignored by parents or staff, MEplace is not responsible for any consequence arising from the private arrangement.

We maintain a firm stance on upholding the professional boundaries of our nursery services. Our focus is solely on providing quality care within our established hours, ensuring the safety and well-being of all children entrusted to our care.

At MEplace, we recognise that children and their families may experience grief and the loss of close family members or friends or their family pets whilst with us in the nursery. We understand that this is not only a difficult time for families but also a confusing time for young children, especially if they have little or no understanding of why their family is upset and why this person/pet is no longer around.

We aim to support both the child and their family and will adapt the following procedure to suit their individual needs and family preferences:

• We ask that if there is a loss of a family member or close friend the parents inform the nursery as soon as they feel able to. This will enable us to support both the child and the family wherever we can and help us to understand any potential changes in the behaviour of a child who may be grieving themselves.
• The manager will talk with the family to ascertain what support is needed or wanted from the nursery. This may be an informal discussion or a meeting away from the child to help calm a potentially upsetting situation.
• The child may need extra support or one-to-one care during this difficult time. We will adapt our staffing arrangements so the child is fully supported by the most appropriate staff member on duty and, where possible, the child’s key person.

We will adapt the above procedure as appropriate when a family pet dies to help the child understand their loss and support their emotions through this time.

We also recognise that there may be rare occasions when the nursery team is affected by the death of a child or member of staff. This will be a difficult time for the staff team, children and families. 

Additionally, in the unfortunate event of a child's demise, MEplace extends its deepest condolences to the child's family. In such a situation, the parents or legal guardians of the deceased child are not required to pay any further fees to MEplace for the child's attendance.

At MEplace, we are grateful that our parents understand that educating children requires a working partnership between parents, teachers and the nursery community. That’s why we want to ensure that we model positive communication and mutual respect in our interactions with one another. 

The purpose of this policy is to provide a reminder to parents about our expectations of conduct. We understand that when it comes to your child’s wellbeing, emotions can become heightened, as you want to ensure your child is receiving the best care possible. That is why we want to assure you that, to achieve this care, we need to retain a respectful and considerate attitude towards one another. We know that practising active listening and attentiveness can help us to reach resolutions together in a cooperative and peaceful manner. 

The Parent Code of Conduct aims to provide clear guidelines and expectations for parents when interacting with various members of the MEplace community, including staff, children, and other parents and guardians. Ultimately, the goal is to promote a culture of mutual respect and cooperation.

In order to support a peaceful and safe nursery environment, MEplace cannot tolerate parents, guardians and visitors exhibiting the following unacceptable behaviours:

• Disruptive behaviour that interferes with the operations of the nursery or a staff's duties.
• Loud or offensive language, including swearing, cursing, use of profanity or an extreme temper, whether in-person or via email, text or phone call. 
• Threatening physical violence or displaying acts of physical aggression or violence.
• Damaging nursery property. 
• Defamatory, offensive or discriminatory language regarding MEplace and our children, parents or staff. This includes communication in person and online. Any concerns you have must be made through the appropriate feedback channels available at MEplace so that they can be dealt with appropriately. Please refer to our Complaints and Compliments Policy for further information. 
• Smoking or the consumption of alcohol or drugs whilst on nursery property. 
• Chastising another parent’s child. 
• Trespassing or forcefully entering restricted areas. 
• Threatening to remove a child without proper authorisation. 
• Behaviour that compromises the safeguarding of our children, staff and parents. This includes sharing sensitive information or posting videos or photographs without consent. 

We trust that parents and carers will work alongside our nursery to ensure that we can safeguard and protect our MEplace community. We have established policies and guidelines to safeguard our children. We ask that all parents familiarise themselves with these procedures in order to ensure the children’s safety. Refusal to comply with these policies, including safeguarding procedures, may result in immediate action. 

If you witness or experience any of the behaviours detailed above, please report this to us immediately so that we can take appropriate action.

Should any of the above behaviours occur, the nursery is licensed to contact the appropriate authorities and, if necessary, ban the offending adult from entering MEplace property, with the potential of discontinuing their membership.

We value open and honest communication with our parents, but we also expect everyone to communicate respectfully and professionally when discussing any aspect of MEplace. If you have any concerns or issues you'd like to discuss, we encourage you to bring them to our attention through our varied feedback channels so that we can find the correct solution. 

‍

Incident Reporting and Risk Assessment 

When an incident occurs, MEplace asks those who were involved to fill in our Typeform incident report. Based on the information gathered from the Typeform, the HQ Team conducts a risk assessment to determine the appropriate response to the incident.

This assessment is a crucial step in managing incidents at MEplace. It considers whether the parent or teachers were verbally or physically aggressive or threatening, the mode of communication used, the availability of evidence and witnesses, any previous incidents, and whether our staff, parents or children felt intimidated by the behaviour displayed. The risk assessment also evaluates provocation and how frequently these behaviours have occurred. 

By assessing the level of the threat and the risk of repetition and/or retaliation, the HQ Team will determine the level of response required. Whilst disciplinary measures are unpleasant, the safety and care of our community is the priority, and therefore, our response will always be reasonable and proportionate. By combining the incident report and risk assessment, the HQ Team will ensure that incidents are handled fairly, appropriately, and in a way that is mindful of the safety and wellbeing of all parties involved.

‍

Addressing Unacceptable Behaviours

If we perceive that a parent is behaving outside of our code of conduct, a formal meeting will be arranged with the HQ team to discuss the incident(s). The meeting is held in order to better understand the parent's perspective and also communicate the implications of the behaviour. If the behaviour is particularly disruptive or harmful, the HQ team will be asked to assess what further actions need to be taken. This may include the termination of the contract. The decision will be based on the severity of the behaviour, whether the parent aligns with MEplace's values, and whether their behaviour poses a risk to others associated with MEplace.

If the parent's contract is terminated, they will be given a 2-month notice to make alternative care arrangements for their child. Throughout this process, MEplace will prioritise the child's wellbeing and progression. All decisions made will be in the best interest of the child.

‍

Addressing Unreasonable Behaviour 

At MEplace, we strive to collaborate with parents to provide the best service possible..As such, we prioritise looking after all children's needs over an individual child's needs. 

In addition to the above list of unacceptable behaviours, MEplace also outlines unreasonable behaviours that will be addressed and recorded if displayed. Behaviour that could be considered unreasonable includes: 

• Excessive demands of special treatment;
• Unfounded complaints or lack of patience towards staff members;
• Refusing to comply with or respect decisions, policies or changes within the nursery;
• Use of intimidating language;
• Taking up a disproportionate amount of time and resources from our team. 

We kindly ask parents to be mindful of their behaviour and to avoid making unreasonable demands that can interfere with the operations of the nursery. Requests from parents are welcomed; we trust our parents will understand that not all requests can be accommodated. Parental requests will always be considered in the context of the smooth operation of the nursery, with the needs of all children as our priority. We always strive to provide our parents with high-quality treatment and services, and we ask for mutual respect and understanding to be shown towards our staff at all times. By working together and avoiding these behaviours, we can ensure the best service and an efficient use of time and resources. 

‍

Recording of Unreasonable Behaviour

MEplace will also record incidents of unreasonable behaviour. This process provides evidence of the behaviour and promotes transparency and accountability within our team. We use a Typeform to document incidents and include screenshots of any communication with the parent to support necessary actions. Recording incidents also helps us identify trends in unreasonable behaviour and take proactive steps to address them in the future.

‍

Response to Unreasonable Behaviour

At MEplace, we value open communication with parents and are committed to providing the best possible service to all families. However, sometimes, a parent's behaviour may become unreasonable, persistent, or confrontational, which can negatively impact our team's ability to provide quality services.

In cases where a parent displays unreasonable behaviour, we have steps to manage it effectively and efficiently. This may involve issuing a formal warning or restricting communication temporarily or permanently, depending on the severity of the behaviour. We do not take these measures lightly, but they are necessary to ensure the wellbeing of our staff and to provide a peaceful environment for all.

‍

We are grateful for our MEplace community and want to work alongside parents to sustain our warm and friendly atmosphere. To do this, we need to ensure that our MEteam, children, and parents feel respected and comfortable. We understand that every parent wants the best for their child, and we want to work together to provide the best service possible.

To ensure that our Parent Code of Conduct remains relevant and up-to-date, it is reviewed annually by our HQ Team. Any updates or changes will be communicated clearly to parents so that everyone is aware of what is expected of them.

‍

MEplace is committed to providing the best possible care. We have a responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of all children within our care. The nursery is also committed to providing a supportive working environment for all staff. The nursery recognises that in order to achieve these aims, it is of utmost importance to attract, recruit and retain staff who share this commitment.

Our aim is to:

• Ensure that the best possible staff are recruited;
• Ensure that all job applicants are considered equally;
• Ensure that no job applicant is treated unfairly on any grounds including race, colour, nationality, ethnic origin, religious belief, sexual orientation, marital status, disability or age;
• Ensure that the nursery meets its commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children by carrying out all necessary pre-employment checks.

‍

Recruitment Procedure

We follow the procedure below:

1. We use only reputable recruitment agencies and recruitment platforms, as well as advertising online.

2. We invite the candidate in for an informal phone call or online meeting and a discussion about the position and the nursery’s ethos.

3. We would then arrange a formal interview and trial day.

4. At the interview, we would discuss the following with the candidate:

• DBS requirements: All new staff must complete or produce an enhanced disclosure which must be returned clear of any offences that would deem them unsuitable to work with children. The Childcare (Disqualification) Regulations 2009 are made under section 75 of the Childcare Act 2006.
• Our Annual Declaration includes the importance of disclosures regarding any medical issues or any restrictions regarding working with children.
  

5. Two references are mandatory for all applicants, one of which must be from their most recent employer. If a candidate fails to provide two satisfactory references, they will not be eligible to commence employment. In such cases, the start date of the employment contract will be adjusted and set for a later date, contingent upon the acquisition of two satisfactory references and the clearance of their DBS check.

At MEplace, we are committed to ensuring that all staff, including volunteers and any agency or supply staff, are suitable to fulfil the requirements of their role to work with or be in regular contact with children. We have effective systems in place to ensure that this includes deciding suitability as part of the recruitment process and monitoring continued suitability as part of regular staff and/or student supervision.

The nursery manager is responsible for ensuring that all staff and students have an enhanced check with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and that the results of such a check are assessed as part of a decision on suitability. Where possible, staff will have the checks completed before starting employment. However, if there are delays in checks coming through, as a last resort, staff may work in the nursery before these checks are completed, but they must be supervised at all times by staff who already hold an enhanced check, and the check must have been applied for.

All nursery staff will be informed of any staff awaiting enhanced DBS clearance.

‍

Staff awaiting these checks will never:

• Be left unsupervised whilst caring for children.
• Take children for toilet visits unless supervised by staff holding an enhanced check.
• Change nappies.
• Be left alone in a room or outside with children.
• Administer medication.
• Administer first aid.
• Have access to children’s details and records.

‍

While adhering to the above list, we recognise that it is vital that the staff member awaiting an enhanced disclosure is made to feel part of the team and we support them in participating fully in every other aspect of the nursery day.

DBS Checks

We recognise that the enhanced DBS disclosure is only one part of a suitability decision and nursery management will ensure every individual working with a child goes through a vigorous recruitment and induction procedure (as laid out in the Safer Recruitment Policy). We will also ensure that all staff receive continuous support, training and supervision from management to provide a safe, secure and healthy environment for all children in the nursery.

We act on any information that comes to our attention suggesting someone may no longer be suitable for their role.

All students will also receive an interview to ensure they are suitable for the nursery and an induction process to ensure they fully understand and can implement the nursery procedures, working practices and values. All students will be fully supervised to ensure they receive the appropriate support, training and information they may require.

We request confirmation that all necessary checks have been completed by the agency before using any supply or agency staff. We have a short induction before supply or agency staff working with the children. It is our policy that all agency and supply staff are fully supervised and not left alone with children.

Once checks are obtained, we record the criminal records check reference number, the date the check was obtained and details of who obtained it. We also collect this information for any agency and supply staff before using them. 

Following the guidance in section 3.11 of the EYFS statutory framework (2021), we request staff complete annual declarations about their ongoing suitability to work with children. Staff are also expected to disclose any circumstances that may affect their suitability to work with children at any time.

At MEplace, we are committed to creating an inclusive and equal environment for all staff, children, and families. We value and respect every individual, treating them with equal rights and responsibilities. Discrimination based on age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation is strictly prohibited within our nursery.

‍

Implementation and Responsibilities

The commitment to our Inclusion and Equality Policy is an integral part of every employee's job description. If anyone believes that this policy is not being upheld, they must promptly report the matter to the attention of the nursery manager or founder. Appropriate steps will be taken to investigate the issue, and if the concerns are valid, the nursery's disciplinary policy will be followed.‍

‍

Legal Framework

Our policy is based on the following legal frameworks:

• Special Education Needs and Disabilities Code of Practice 2015, 
• Children and Families Act 2014, 
• Equality Act 2010, 
• Childcare Act 2006, 
• Children Act 2004, 
• Care Standards Act 2002, and 
• Special Educational Needs and Disability Act 2001.
  
  

The nursery and staff are committed to:

1. Ensuring fair and equal treatment during recruitment, selection, training, and promotion processes, without any form of discrimination. Job applicants and employees will not face less favourable treatment based on the grounds specified in our policy.
   
2. Establishing a working environment that is free from bullying, harassment, victimisation, and unlawful discrimination. We promote dignity and respect for all, valuing individual differences and contributions from staff.
   
3. Offering childcare places for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities, as well as children deemed disadvantaged based on their individual circumstances. We make reasonable adjustments to remove barriers and improve access for all children.
   
4. Taking practical steps, wherever possible and reasonable, to ensure equal access to services and projects. This includes providing access to individuals with additional needs and producing materials in relevant languages and media for all children and families.
   
5. Providing a secure environment where all families are listened to, children can thrive, and every contribution is valued.
   
6. Including and valuing the contributions of all families to our understanding of equality, inclusion, and diversity.
   
7. Providing positive non-stereotypical information and challenging discriminatory behaviour through the use of toys, imaginative play, and activities, and promoting non-stereotypical images and language.
   
8. Continually improving knowledge and understanding of equality, inclusion, and diversity; providing training to all staff regarding their rights and responsibilities under the inclusion and equality policy; and regularly reviewing, monitoring, and evaluating the effectiveness of inclusive practices to promote and value diversity.

‍

Admissions and Service Provision

MEplace is committed to ensuring that our nursery is accessible to all children and families in the local community and beyond, through an inclusive admissions policy. We strive to make all our services and projects accessible and relevant to all groups and individuals within targeted age groups.

‍

Recruitment

Recruitment, promotion, and selection exercises, including redundancy selection, are conducted based on merit and objective criteria to avoid discrimination. Shortlisting involves multiple individuals, where possible, who are committed to inclusive practices. Application forms and advertisements are designed to avoid discriminatory language and encourage diverse applications.

‍

Staff

MEplace staff are expected to cooperate with the implementation, monitoring, and improvement of this Inclusion and Equality Policy. They are encouraged to challenge any oppressive or discriminatory actions, language, behaviours, or attitudes. All staff are required to participate in equality and inclusion training and report any discriminatory behaviours observed.

‍

Training

We recognise the importance of training in implementing an effective Inclusion and Equality Policy. All new staff receive induction training that includes specific references to the policy. We strive to provide inclusion, equality, and diversity training to all staff on an annual basis.

‍

Early Learning Framework

We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage statutory requirements, ensuring that our learning opportunities promote positive attitudes towards all individuals. Our curriculum encourages empathy, critical thinking, and understanding. We assign a key person to each child to ensure that their individual needs receive tailored care and attention. The key person will also continually observe and assess each child to plan for their learning and development.

‍

This Inclusion and Equality Policy reflects our commitment to promoting diversity, equality, and inclusion within MEplace.

At MEplace, we prioritise the organisation and maintenance of our premises and equipment to meet the diverse needs of all the children in our care. We strive to provide a wide range of high-quality equipment and resources that support the delivery of our early years curriculum. Our policy ensures the safety of children by taking reasonable steps to minimise risks within the nursery environment, including in our outdoor areas.

‍

Safe and Conforming Equipment

We provide play equipment and resources that meet safety standards, such as European Standards for Playground Equipment: EN 1176 and EN 1177, BS EN safety standards, or Toys (Safety) Regulation (1995).

All equipment is regularly checked to identify and address any potential safety hazards.

‍

Sufficient Quantity and High-Quality Resources

We ensure an adequate quantity of equipment and resources to cater to the number of children registered in the nursery, promoting equitable access for all.

Our resources are carefully selected to meet individual children's needs and interests, and to promote learning and development across various areas.

Where appropriate, children are given opportunities to participate in decision-making regarding the introduction of new resources and equipment.

‍

Inclusive and Non-Discriminatory Resources

Our nursery offers a wide range of books, equipment, and resources that depict positive images of people from diverse races, cultures, ages, genders, and abilities. We are committed to avoiding stereotypes and promoting inclusivity in our resources.

‍

Continuity, Progression, and Challenge

Our play equipment and resources are designed to support continuity and progression in children's learning and development.

We provide sufficient challenges through age-appropriate resources to stimulate children's curiosity and problem-solving abilities.

‍

Effective Storage and Rotation

We ensure sufficient storage areas (labelled baskets, trays and cupboards) to display resources and equipment, allowing children to independently choose items and store them away safely.

Regular rotation of resources enables variety and maintains children's engagement and interest.

‍

Risk Assessments and Checks

Regular inspections are conducted at the beginning and end of every day to ensure the ongoing safety and suitability of resources and equipment. These are done through the morning and evening risk assessment checklists. 

‍

Cleaning and Maintenance

We maintain cleanliness by regularly cleaning and sanitising all resources and equipment.

Any unsafe, worn out, dirty, or damaged equipment is promptly repaired or replaced as necessary. 

‍

Resource Inventory and Evaluation

Periodic evaluations of resources are conducted, considering children's opinions and interests, to ensure their ongoing effectiveness.

‍

Encouraging Responsibility

Children are encouraged to take responsibility for returning resources and equipment to their designated places after use.

Visual aids, such as silhouettes or pictures, may be used to support children in organising and tidying up.

‍

By adhering to this policy, we create an organised and stimulating environment that supports children's learning, fosters independence, and promotes a sense of responsibility for their surroundings. We continually strive to provide a safe, inclusive, and engaging nursery experience for all children in our care.

At MEplace, we are committed to fostering a culture of environmental sustainability and teaching children about the importance of caring for the environment. By promoting sustainable practices and role-modelling responsible behaviours, we aim to instil positive attitudes and values in children regarding environmental stewardship.

‍

Curriculum and Experiences

1. We provide a holistic, open-ended curriculum that encourages children to explore and engage with nature through art, play, and hands-on experiences.
2. Natural materials such as wood, stone, sand, and recycled materials are incorporated to allow children to connect with the natural environment.
3. Children learn about food by participating in cooking activities, fostering an understanding of sustainable food practices.
4. Play-based activities and adult interactions help children learn about water conservation, energy efficiency, and waste reduction.
5. Nature walks, forest school program and local plant exploration enable children to learn about the flora and fauna in their surroundings.
6. We encourage parents and children to regularly walk to the nursery, promoting awareness and action towards caring for the planet.
7. A recycling area is provided, and children are encouraged to embrace recycling practices both at the nursery and in their home environment.

‍

Operational Practices

1. Recycling materials are utilised for art and creative activities, and parents are encouraged to contribute their recycling materials for the same purpose.
2. Parents are advised to recycle children's take-home recycled material models if they choose not to keep them.
3. Consideration of the carbon footprint guides our purchasing decisions, prioritising environmentally friendly materials.
4. Local sourcing of materials is favoured whenever possible, supporting the community and reducing transportation-related emissions.
5. Equipment and lights are turned off when not in use.
6. Food waste is monitored and levels of food cooked by chefs is adjusted, as needed.
7. Water-wise strategies include ensuring taps are turned off, addressing leaks promptly, and recycling water from water play to the plants.

‍

Collaboration and Continuous Improvement

1. We actively engage with parents and partners, fostering a collaborative approach to environmental sustainability and creating a better future for our children.
2. Regular assessments of our nursery's environmental impact are conducted, and appropriate procedures are implemented to mitigate any negative effects.

‍

This policy is reviewed annually, ensuring its alignment with the best interests of the children, the nursery, and the environment.

By incorporating environmental sustainability practices into all aspects of our operations and working together with parents and partners, we strive to create a sustainable environment that nurtures future generations.

At MEplace, we are unwaveringly committed to integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into our daily operations. ESG is not just a formality; it's an integral part of our corporate identity. This policy outlines our steadfast dedication to ESG values.

‍

Environmental Responsibility

‍

Sustainability

MEplace actively minimises its environmental footprint, integrating sustainable practices into operations and continually seeking opportunities for improvement.

‍

Forest School 

Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond our nursery sites through the Forest School program, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment and eco-friendly values.

‍

Ethical Food Sourcing

We source our food from ethical producers, supporting responsible and sustainable food practices.

‍

Minimising Food Waste

We are dedicated to reducing food waste by preparing only what's needed, conserving resources, and reducing our environmental footprint.

‍

Mostly Paperless

We have embraced a mostly paperless approach, reducing paper consumption and our environmental impact.

‍

Resource Efficiency

We promote resource efficiency, including responsible sourcing, recycling, and waste reduction.

‍

Recycling

We maintain recycling bins at all our sites to ensure effective recycling of paper, plastic, and other materials, reducing our environmental impact.

‍

Materials Index

Transparency is crucial. We maintain an index of materials used, actively seeking more environmentally friendly alternatives in order to continuously improve our sustainability efforts.

‍

Climate Action

We are committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and aligning with international climate goals.