1. Statement of Commitment
St. Oswald’s Ladybirds CIO is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children. We believe every child has the right to be safe, secure, and protected from harm.
We follow the guidance set out in Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) and comply with relevant legislation, including the Children Act 1989 and 2004.
2. Aims of This Policy
- To protect children attending our preschool
- To provide staff with clear guidance on safeguarding procedures
- To ensure concerns are identified and acted upon promptly
- To promote a safe and supportive environment for all children
3. Safeguarding Responsibilities
All staff, volunteers, and students are responsible for safeguarding children.
We have a designated safeguarding lead (DSL):
- Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Becky Dutton
- Deputy DSL: Tracey Clarke-Kellow
The DSL is responsible for:
- Managing safeguarding concerns and referrals
- Liaising with external agencies
- Ensuring staff receive appropriate training
- Maintaining secure records
4. Recognising Abuse
Staff are trained to recognise signs of abuse, including:
- Physical abuse – injury or harm caused deliberately
- Emotional abuse – persistent emotional harm
- Sexual abuse – inappropriate sexual behaviour or exploitation
- Neglect – failure to meet a child’s basic needs
Concerns may arise from:
- Changes in behaviour
- Unexplained injuries
- Disclosure by a child
- Concerns raised by others
5. Reporting Concerns
All concerns must be taken seriously.
- Staff must report concerns immediately to the DSL
- A written record will be made and kept securely
- The DSL will decide whether to refer the matter to children’s social care or other agencies
In cases where a child is at immediate risk of harm, staff will contact emergency services.
We work in partnership with local safeguarding teams and follow procedures set by the local safeguarding partnership.
6. Confidentiality
Information is shared on a need-to-know basis only.
- Staff will not promise confidentiality to children
- Information will be shared with relevant professionals to protect the child
- All records are stored securely in line with data protection laws
7. Safer Recruitment
We are committed to safe recruitment practices, including:
- Enhanced DBS checks for all staff
- Verification of identity and qualifications
- References checked before employment
- Ongoing suitability monitoring
8. Staff Training
All staff receive safeguarding training, including:
- Induction training on child protection procedures
- Regular updates and refresher training
- Awareness of current safeguarding issues
The DSL receives advanced safeguarding training.
9. Online Safety
We take steps to protect children online by:
- Supervising internet use
- Using appropriate filters and security settings
- Ensuring online content is age-appropriate
10. Working with Parents and Carers
We work in partnership with parents/carers to keep children safe.
- Concerns will usually be discussed with parents unless doing so places the child at risk
- We provide guidance and support where needed
11. Allegations Against Staff
Any allegations against staff or volunteers will be:
- Taken seriously and reported immediately
- Referred to the appropriate authorities, including the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO)
- Managed in line with safeguarding procedures
12. Whistleblowing
Staff are encouraged to report concerns about colleagues or practices.
Concerns can be raised with the DSL or external agencies if necessary.
13. Monitoring and Review
This policy is reviewed regularly and updated in line with current legislation and guidance.
Contact Information
If you have concerns about a child’s safety, please contact:
- DSL: Becky Dutton
- Deputy DSL: Tracy Clarke-Kellow
You can also contact your local children’s social care team or the police in an emergency.