Policy Statement:
My primary responsibility and priority is for the children I care for. As a mother, I am acutely aware of how important it is to ensure your child is kept safe, especially when in someone else’s care.
To become Ofsted registered I have to have an enhanced CRB disclosure (now called a Disclosure and Barring Service - DBS) as well as other members of my family over the age of 16. I am aware of the signs of different kinds of abuse, and if I have any reason to suspect a child's safety or wellbeing is in question while they not in my care I will be obligated legally and morally to report it, following the Local Safeguarding Children Board procedures. These procedures are available on request.
It is important to note in my policies that child abuse can include one or more aspects of physical, sexual, emotional and neglectful abuse. I am also aware that abuse may not be by the parents/guardians of the child, and if I do feel I have to report any concerns I have, this is done so without blaming anyone specific, and it it up to the relevant authorities to look into and investigate.
I must notify Ofsted of any allegations of abuse that are alleged to have taken place while the child is in my care.
I keep up to date with child protection issues and relevant legislation by taking the recommended training courses and by reading relevant publications, for example, the booklet 'What To Do If You’re Worried A Child is Being Abused', by the DCSF, also magazines 'Who Minds The Child' http://www.whomindsthechild.org/ or 'Nursery World' http://www.nurseryworld.co.uk/legislation. This helps me be aware of current issues and to be aware of the signs of abuse or neglect and what to do if I have a concern.
Procedure:
I am familiar with the Local Safeguarding Children Board procedures. I will check that I have the latest version of the relevant procedures if I need to report a concern.
If I am concerned about a