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Early Birds

 

Introduction

 

Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited is a childcare facility established primarily for the parents and carers of children from Leigh St John s C.E. Infant School and Leigh C.E. Junior School. It provides before and after school childcare during term- time and holiday childcare for children aged between 4Date: June 2008
The Admissions Policy is implemented in conjunction with the Equal Opportunities Policy adopted by Earlybirds Child Care Club Limited. Every application for a childcare place is treated individually. We hope that we can offer places to any child attending either Leigh St John's C.E. Infant School or Leigh C.E. Junior School as long as the Board of Directors considers that the needs of the individual child can be met.

In the event of a shortage of childcare places, a waiting list will be established.


These are the criteria for the allocation of places in order:

1. The child attends Leigh St. Johns C.E. Infant School or Leigh C.E. Junior School.

2. Siblings are in attendance at the group. Earlybirds Child Care Club Limited aims to meet the needs of the children and families in partnership with the two schools.

3. Position in waiting list.

11 years of age. It is Ofsted registered for up to 32 children to attend at any one session. Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited prides itself in providing outstanding childcare that offers a stimulating, safe, caring and enjoyable  home from home environment for all the children that attend. Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited prides itself in creating an ethos whereby all involved play an active role in the continious development of this facility.

 

Staff Information

 

Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited is managed by a board of directors which has 3 members. These members are:

 

Chairperson  Kathryn Freeman.

Secretary  Heidi Lovely.

Treasurer  Jane Williams.

 

The Board Members work in close partnership with Lilian Worthington, the Head teacher of Leigh St John s CE Infant School where the facility is based.

 

The Board of Directors of Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited employs the following staff to deliver the childcare. All of the Board Members act as Strategic Managers on a daily basis.

 

Operational Manager Lynn Vernon

Lynn is responsible for managing the operational activities in their entirety of the team of staff that are employed by Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited. Lynn is a qualified teacher and has been the Deputy to the Officer in Charge within Earlybirds for the past four years. Lynn brings to this post a wealth of childcare experience.

 

Deputy/Play Worker Supervisor Jennifer Leather

Jennifer will be Deputy to the Operational Manager. In the absence of the Operational Manager, Jennifer will take command of the daily operations of Earlybirds. Within her role, Jennifer will oversee and supervise the daily activities and planning duties of the Play Workers and will supervise the provision of snack- meals and walking bus and generally oversee the activities of the Play Workers. Jennifer is NNEB qualified and has worked in various setting previously. 

 

Lead Play Worker Sandra Worthington

Sandra will be the lead Play Worker. She will support Jennifer with the execution of the activities planned and be responsible for ensuring that all children have access to a range of stimulating age appropriate activities. She will ensure that all planning is current and engaging and that all resources required are accessible and safe. Sandra has worked in a variety of childcare settings for the past 15 years and brings to this post a wealth of new ideas and opportunities for the children to engage with.

Play Worker Kirstin- Marie Bates

 

Kirstin is our newest employee. Kirstin has worked with children in a range of roles. Kirstin will support Sandra and Jennifer in the delivery of the planned activities planned and generally oversee the safety and wellbeing of the children that attend. Kirstin is qualified to an NVQ Level 2 standard.

 

Earlybirds also operates a floating supply of staff that support the holiday clubs.

Information on individual staff members can be obtained on request from the Operational Manager.

General Information

 

 

Location

 

Earlybirds Childcare Care Limited is based at:

 

Leigh St. Johns C.E. Infant School,

Kirkhall Lane,

Leigh,

Lancs,

WN7 1RY.

 

Tel: 01942 766464 / 07821 381665- for general enquiries.

 

Entrance to Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited will be via the back gate on the car park and through the porch on the left into the hall. To access our facility ,Parents ,Carers will have to make themselves known using the Security Gate system.

 

Meals

 

Breakfast Time - Breakfast will be served between 7.45 am and 8.05 am.

 

Lunchtime - During the Holiday Clubs, the children will be given a lunchtime snack/meal at approximately midday.

Tea-time - Afternoon snacks will be served at approximately 4.00pm.

 

Children will be encouraged to display good table manners at all times. Any special dietary requirements should be specified on the Confidential Data form.

 

Medicines

 

If a child needs medication, this may be administered at the discretion of the Operation Manager and the parent/carer will be asked to give written permission in accordance with the Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited Medicines Policy. Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited and/or the class teacher at school cannot be held responsible if she 'forgets' or is called away. It is solely the parents/carers responsibility to liaise with their child s school regarding administration of medicines.

 

Asthmatics/ Allergies/Medical Conditions

 

The Operational Manager will keep a register of children suffering from asthma or other medical condition, together with any appropriate medication. Each asthma sufferer's medication will be kept in an easily accessible place for the child. Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited has an Asthma Policy which is adhered to.

 

Discipline and Behaviour

 

If children need to be reprimanded regarding inappropriate or anti-social behaviour it will be done in a constructive manner. Persistent unacceptable behaviour will be dealt with in accordance with the Behaviour Policy.

 

Communication

 

Any communication between Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited and the parent/carer will be either done verbally or through written notification at the discretion of the Operational Manager and Board of Directors. A copy of the note will be put into the child s school bag when appropriate. The original of any written communication will be kept in a confidential file for future reference.

 

Security

 

Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited is protected by a security gate which is monitored via CCTV and only opened by staff within the school. All arrangements will be in compliance with Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited Security Policy. Parents will be expected to collect their children via the hall porch door. Please press the security gate buzzer and wait. As the safety of your child is paramount it is important that if someone different is collecting your child, please inform us ASAP. A password will be organised between yourselves and the staff of Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited. This password will need to be produced before your child will be handed over.

 

All children must be collected by 6.00pm prompt and no child will be accepted or handed to another  minor .

 

Additional Information

 

The bringing of sweets, toys and computer games into the Clubs is not allowed.

 

 


 

 

Confidential Data Form.

 

 

Details of child (Please complete in block capitals)

 

Surname

 

Forenames

 

Date of Birth

 

School attending

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

Postcode

 

Tel. No.

 

Emergency Contact No.(s)

 

Name

 

Relationship

 

Telephone No

 

Priority Contact

 

Information with regard to any medical conditions (including allergies, medication and any special dietary requirements) that we should be aware of.

 

 

 

Signed: Date__________

(Parent / Guardian)

 

NB The acceptance by Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited of this form, duly completed does not constitute a promise of admission but your application will be carefully considered and the claims of your child weighed against the claims of other children. If any of the above information changes please notify Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited immediately. 

 


 

 

Contract : Breakfast and After School Club.

 

 

This is a contract of agreement made between Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited and the Parents/Carers of:__________________________________ 

 

Parent/Carers Name:

Address:

 

 

 

Telephone:

 

 

School that Child Attends: 

 

 

MON

TUES

WED

THURS

FRI

 

AM

 

PM

 

 

 

Days Service Required: 

 

Date of Commencement:__________________________________

 

Prices are in accordance with the Charging Policy.

 

Fees are to be paid in accordance with the Charging Policy, in advance for the contracted days agreed. Absences will be charged for at full price. Extra sessions can be arranged (subject to availability).

 

  • One week deposit of £ has been paid. This deposit is non-transferable and will not be refunded in the event of non-attendance.
  • If you are in receipt of Working Family Tax Credit, we reserve the right to inform the necessary agencies should your contract cease.
  • Two-weeks notice period is required on both parties to end this contract. Should this notice not be given, payment for this period will be required.
  • I give permission for my child to be given First Aid treatment by staff if necessary.
  • I give my full permission for my child to be taken to hospital in the event of an emergency.
  • I give permission for Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited staff to take official photographs of my child.

 

Signed: Parent/Carer Date:__________

 

Signed: Earlybirds. Date:__________ 

 


 

Contract : Holiday Club.

 

This is a contract of agreement made between Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited and the Parents/Carers of:__________________________________ 

 

Parent/Carers Name:

Address:

 

Telephone:

 

School that Child Attends: 

 

Days Service Required: 

 

Prices are in accordance with the Charging Policy.

 

 

  • One week deposit of £________ is required. This deposit is non-transferable and will not be refunded in the event of non-attendance.
  • If you are in receipt of Working Family Tax Credit, we reserve the right to inform the necessary agencies should your contract cease.
  • One-week notice period is required on both parties to end this contract. Should this notice not be given, payment for this period will be required.
  • I give permission for my child to be given First Aid treatment by staff if necessary.
  • I give my full permission for my child to be taken to hospital in the event of an emergency.
  • I give permission for Earlybirds staff to take official photographs of my child.

 

Signed: Parent/Carer. Date: _________ 

 

Signed: Earlybirds. Date:__________

 

 


 

 

Healthy Snack/Meal Time Menu

 

Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited will provide a snack/meal within each session attended.

 

Water/sugar free cordial and fruit is available at all times

 

All meals are served with sugar free cordial or water. No hot drinks are available

 

If the children do not like what is on offer each day, they are offered a healthy alternative.

 

Please see below an example of tea - time snack/meals and breakfasts.

 

The menu will be offered on a rotational basis, which will be displayed on the notice board in the porch entrance. Each parent will be provided with a menu a term in advance. Two food choices will be available at each meal time.

 

 

Please inform staff via the Confidential Data Form of any special dietary requirements, including allergies.

 

Healthy Tea- time menu

 

Week 1

 

 

Monday

Tomato Soup

Crusty French bread

Fruity jelly or fresh fruit

 

Tuesday

Homemade cheese and tomato pizza

Corn on the cob

Fromage frais or fresh fruit

 

Wednesday

Lasagne

Garlic Bread

Mixed salad

Carrot cake slices or fresh fruit

 

Thursday

Freshly made sandwiches with various fillings

Cucumber, Carrot, Celery and Cherry Tomatoes

Tinned fruit and ice cream or fresh fruit

 

Friday

Jacket potato

Various fillings

Mixed salad

Plain biscuits/ yoghurts or fresh fruit

 

Week 2

 

Monday

Cottage pie

Steam fresh vegetables

Cereal bar or fresh fruit

 

Tuesday

Fish fingers

Mash

Sweetcorn

Fruit cake or muffin or fresh fruit

 

Wednesday

Jacket potatoes

Various fillings

Mixed salad

Fromage frais or fresh fruit

 

Thursday

Freshly made sandwiches with various fillings

Carrot, Cucumber, Celery and Cherry Tomatoes

Rice pudding or fresh fruit

 

Friday

Beans

Wholemeal toast

Fruity jelly or fresh fruit

 

Week 3

 

Monday

Jacket Potatoes

Various fillings

Mixed salad

Tinned fruit and ice cream or fresh fruit

 

Tuesday

Cheese and onion Rolls / Sausage Rolls

Potato wedges

Peas

Plain biscuits or fresh fruit

 

Wednesday

Pasta bake

Garlic Bread

Mixed salad

Fruit or plane scones or fresh fruit

 

Thursday

Freshly made sandwiches with various fillings

Cucumber, Carrot, Celery and Cherry Tomatoes

Tinned fruit and ice cream or fresh fruit

 

Friday

Chicken Soup

Crusty French bread

Carrot cake slices or fresh fruit

Healthy Tea Time Menu

 

 

Fillings for jacket potatoes will include:

Cheese

 

Beans

Tuna

 

Fillings for sandwiches will include:

Ham

Turkey

Chicken

Tuna

Cheese

Egg

 

Mixed salad includes:

Lettuce

Cucumber

Tomato

Pepper

Carrot

 

 

 

Healthy Breakfast Menu

 

Various cereals are on offer e.g.

Weetabix

Cornflakes

Multigrain shapes

Reduced sugar frosties

Rice crispies

 

Toast is also available in white or wholemeal bread. Children are given a choice of margarine or mixed fruit jam.

 

Breakfast is served with a choice of fresh fruit juices or water.

 

Breakfast will be served between 7.45am and 8.05am. It is Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited policy to provide a healthy breakfast.

 

All children attending will be encouraged to partake. Any concerns about any of the children s eating habits will be conveyed to the parent/carer verbally

 

The Lunchtime menu for the Holiday Clubs will be available on request and will be season based. To obtain a copy, please contact Jennifer Leather.

 

Please inform staff via the Confidential Data Form of any special dietary requirements, including allergies.

 

 

Activities

 

A varied and comprehensive range of activities will be on offer throughout every session of Earlybirds.

 

The planning will be displayed on the Parent notice board in the porch area. Parents will be notified in advance of the Holiday Club activity plans and any trips or off site activities.

 

Appropriate risk assessments will be conducted by the Operational Manager and verified by the Board of Directors.

 

Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited is NOT an extension to school and is based on a  Home from Home ethos.

 

Possible activities available:

 

  • Various games (board games, construction games etc).
  • Craft activities/organised projects  whole week projects.
  • Watching Television programmes/videos.
  • Quiet area/ magazines/books.
  • Computer games (dance mat).
  • Outside playground activities.
  • Activities provided by outside agencies, ie Premier Sports etc.
  • Various trips as arranged by the Club- ie Chester Zoo, regular trips to the local library and parks and areas of interest.

 

Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited is currently in the process of extending it's portfolio of activities to ensure that all interests and age groups are catered for.

 

Policies and Procedures

 

Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited adheres to the following policies:

  • Accident Policy
  • Admission Policy
  • Appeals Policy
  • Asthma Policy
  • Behaviour Policy
  • Charging Policy
  • Child Protection Policy
  • Complaints Policy
  • Communication Policy
  • Confidentiality Policy
  • Equal Opportunities Policy
  • Fire Drill Policy
  • Health and Safety Policy
  • Healthy Eating Policy
  • Inclusion Policy
  • Medicines Policy
  • No Smoking Policy
  • Open Door Policy
  • Registration Policy
  • Risk Assessment Policy
  • Security Policy
  • Sick Child Policy
  • Special Needs Policy
  • Uncollected and Lost Child Policy
  • Walking Bus Policy

 

All parent/ carer policies are listed above and procedures are outlined within them individually.

All staff related policies and procedures are outlined within the current Staff Handbook.

A copy of all current policies and procedures are displayed in the Porch area.

 

The following policies and procedures are included with this Parent Pack:

 

Admissions Policy

 

Date: June 2008

The Admissions Policy is implemented in conjunction with the Equal Opportunities Policy adopted by Earlybirds Child Care Club Limited. Every application for a childcare place is treated individually. We hope that we can offer places to any child attending either Leigh St John's C.E. Infant School or Leigh C.E. Junior School as long as the Board of Directors considers that the needs of the individual child can be met.

 

In the event of a shortage of childcare places, a waiting list will be established.

 

 

These are the criteria for the allocation of places in order:

 

  • 1. The child attends Leigh St. Johns C.E. Infant School or Leigh C.E. Junior School.

 

  • 2. Siblings are in attendance at the group. Earlybirds Child Care Club Limited aims to meet the needs of the children and families in partnership with the two schools.

 

  • 3. Position in waiting list.

 

Charging Policy.

Date: January 2008

From the 1st January 2008 the following charges will apply:

 

  • Breakfast Club.  Operating Hours- 7.15am to 8.45am Monday to Friday Term time only.

 

  • £2.80 per day including breakfast.

 

  • After School Club. Operating Hours- 3.00pm to 6.00pm Monday to Friday Term time only.

 

  • £5.80 per day including snack tea.

 

  • Holiday Club. Operating Hours- 7.15am to 6.00pm

 

  • £20.00 per day. £12.00 per half a day .Meals/Snacks included.

 

  • Walking Bus only.

 

  • £1.50 each way to and from Leigh CE Junior School

 

  • Children must pay a minimum of one session per week to secure their place.

 

  • Fees may increased as necessary but parents/carers will be given two weeks {term time} notice of any changes.

 

  • Fees must be paid weekly on or before the first day the child/children attend Earlybirds in advance. Charges will be incurred at full price even if your child/ children does not attend a contracted session.

 

  • Extra sessions can be arranged if available with the Operational Manager.

 

  • One week's deposit is required and the deposit is non refundable once notice of termination of contract has been given.

 

  • A period of one weeks notice is required to terminate the contract by both parties involved.

 

  • If you are in receipt of Working Family Tax Credit, we reserve the right to inform the necessary agencies should your contact cease.

 

  • If you are paying by Standing Order, payments will be taken from your bank account monthly in advance.

 

    • The following charges will apply:

 

    • Breakfast Club- £2.50 per session

 

    • After School Club- £ 5.50 per session

 

    • Holiday Club- £18.00 per full day,£12.00 per half day
  • This is the preferred method of payment

 

  • Unpaid cheques will be charged at £10.00 per cheque

 

  • Review Date: January 2009.

Child Protection Policy June 2008

 1. Introduction 

               

Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited takes seriously its responsibilities to protect and safeguard the interests of all children in its care and operates within Wigan's Children's and Young Peoples Services guidance and legislation. Its role, therefore, in protecting children and young people from

exploitation and abuse cannot be underestimated.

 

Dealing with safety and protection of children and young people is a demanding and difficult area of work. Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited recognises this and aims to ensure that staff who work with children, are provided with appropriate guidance and direction in this sensitive area.    

          

It is well established that effective child protection work requires sound procedures, good inter-agency co-operation and a workforce, which is competent and confident in recognising and responding to child protection situations.

              

The production of this policy draws upon the experience, procedures and practice of a number of professionals who work with children in educational, social and health care settings. The document is also informed by known good practice in Wigan and in other parts of the country and is in line with the current Wigan Safeguarding Children's Board Business Plan 2006-2009 that states ‘The new ways of working should result in agencies collaborating better and have greater impact in ensuring children and young people "stay safe" ‘.

              

2. Role of CYPS

              

Sections 27 and 47 of the Children Act place duties on Children and Young People's Services ensure that the  Local Authority Social Services Departments acting on behalf of children in need or enquiring into allegations of child abuse are supported .

 

In addition to this statutory duty, there is a pastoral responsibility, which recognises that all children and young people who need or use the services provided by a CYPS have a fundamental right to be protected from harm.

 

This policy reflects these rights and responsibilities and seeks to ensure that all staff whom work with or on behalf of children within the CYPS are fully aware of the need to act continually to enhance the welfare and safety of children. 

              

To this end, the CYPS will ensure that the Local Safeguarding Children's Board -WSCB, will liaise as appropriate with Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited to inform of any current updates on matters relating to child protection.

 

 

 

3 Purpose of Policy 

This policy aims to provide framework which ensures that policies and practice within CYPS are consistent and in line with the stated values which underpin all work with children and young people. As such, this document provides a context for establishing good practice in matters relating to the protection and care of children.

 

The document also seeks to make clear to all staff their professional responsibilities to ensure that statutory and other duties are met in accordance with Children's Act 2004,Every Child Matter's Agenda and Wigan Safeguarding Children's Board requirements and procedures.  

              

4 Underpinning Values 

              

  • All children have a right to freedom from abuse.
  • Children have a right to be treated with respect and dignity, as do the adults who work with them.
  • The welfare of the child in child protection situations is paramount.
  • It is the responsibility of all adults to protect children.
  • All adults working on a paid or voluntary basis within the CYPS and Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited have a responsibility to protect children from harm wherever they are in a position to do so.
  • All children must be given the opportunity to express their views about decisions taken about their lives.
  • All work with children and young people will be informed by equal opportunities and anti-oppressive practice and will reflect diversity of need in the communities being served.
  • All those working with or on behalf of children must reflect and promote the value of working together with parents, colleagues and other agencies in order to create safe environments and protect children from harm.

            

 5 Procedures, Policies and Practice 

              

Each establishment / service falling within the CYPS's responsibilities and involving contact with children and young people will ensure that there are senior designated staff who are competent to respond to child protection situations and concerns wherever they may arise.

              

Within these establishments or services, there will be a written child protection policy. Such documents will specify in-house procedures, specific codes of conduct and any other information,   which relates to the protection of children. This will include procedures for handling allegations against any adult working in any capacity within that establishment or area of service. A recommended format for a Child Protection Policy is available from the CYPS Wigan Safeguarding Children's Board Co-ordinator.

 

Child protection should be seen as a dynamic process and policies should reflect this. It is therefore the responsibility of senior designated staff to ensure adequate training within their own   establishments. It is essential therefore that all staff who may come into contact with children are regularly briefed in terms of best practice.

 

It is recognised that individual child protection policies and procedures should be regularly reviewed. In the case of schools, such a review should ideally be incorporated as part of the governing bodies responsibilities. Guidelines are available in the School Staff Handbook.

              

6 Code of Conduct 

              

All adults working in either a paid or voluntary capacity within the CYPS and Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited will adhere to specific codes of conduct where contact with children or young people are concerned.

 

Such codes of behaviour are intended to safeguard the well being of children and offer protection to adults whose vulnerability in some situations is recognised. 

 

              

 7 Records 

              

Well kept records are essential in situations where it is suspected or believed that a child may be at risk of harm.

 

All establishments / services will maintain accurate and relevant child protection records. These records will be kept in a secure place separate from all other records pertaining to the child. Child Protection records are subject to the arrangements for maintaining confidentiality within that particular area of service. They should be kept for a period of no less than 7 years after the 18th birthday of the child.

 

Child Protection records will be accessed and maintained by designated persons only.

Each establishment / service will keep and maintain records, which detail allegations of abuse against any member of staff working in a paid or voluntary capacity, whatever the outcome

 

           

8 Recruitment, Supervision and Support of Staff 

              

The growing awareness of the possibility of abuse by people in positions of trust and the increased understanding of the way sex offenders operate, highlights the need for careful recruitment and

selection of staff. All those responsible for employing and selecting staff must take every precaution to ensure sound and thorough vetting procedures. Care must be taken to ensure that references are taken up and obtained. Any gaps in service must be properly investigated.

 

Earlybird's Childcare Club Limited will undertake enhanced CRB checks for all staff who are appointed to work with children on a paid or voluntary basis.

 

Each establishment / service must also ensure that all staff working in situations where issues of child protection may arise have access to appropriate supervision and support.

 

9 Training 

              

Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited Board of Directors will ensure that staff have access to training, relevant and appropriate to their role. They will be shown how to recognise and respond to situations where a child may be considered to be at risk.

 

Earlybird's Childcare Club Limited will work in collaboration with CYPS to access any relevant Safeguarding training.

 

Staff must also be made fully aware of the responsibilities commensurate with their role and those of their colleagues from other agencies. 

 

              

10 Links with other policies 

              

This document must be considered within the context of other policies, which pertain to work with children and young people. Staff will also be aware of how other issues can have a bearing on    child protection situations e.g. drug and alcohol abuse, domestic violence and families where there are mental health concerns.

           

This policy applies to all staff working within CYPS.

 

         Child Protection Procedures

     JUNE 2008

Ethos Statement

Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited aims to serve the needs of the children in its care in accordance with the Church's conviction of the importance of Christian values. We will do this by promoting the spiritual, intellectual, creative and social development of the children within a caring community.

 

Introduction

The health, safety and well- being of all our children are of paramount importance to all the adults who work in our school. Our children have the right to protection, regardless of age, gender, race, culture or disability. They have a right to be safe in our school.

 

Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited we respect our children. The atmosphere within our Club is one that encourages all children to do their best. We provide opportunities that enable children to take and make decisions for themselves.

 

Earlybird's Childcare Club Limited provides opportunities which enable the children that attend to develop appropriate attitudes towards other children and makes them aware of the impact of their decisions on others. They are also encouraged how to recognise different risks in different situations, and how to behave in response to them.

 

 

Aims and Objectives

This policy ensures that all staff in Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited are clear about the actions necessary with regard to a child protection issue. Its aims are:

  • To raise the awareness of all staff and identify responsibility in reporting possible causes of abuse.
  • To ensure effective communication between all staff when dealing with child protection issues. To lay down the correct procedures for those who encounter an issue of child protection.

 

There are three main elements to our Child Protection Procedures:

 

Prevention - This is addressed through a positive, nurturing ‘home from home' atmosphere and environment and enhanced Police Clearance Checks for all members of staff whether paid or volunteer. All staff are responsible for ensuring they never leave a child in a situation of possible abuse, eg, alone with visitors etc.

 

Protection - This is addressed by following agreed procedures, ensuring that  all staff know how to respond appropriately and sensitively to Child Protection issues.

Support  -  To support both children and staff members who need support following disclosure/identification.

 

These procedures apply to all who attend Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited in any capacity.

 

 

Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited Commitment

We recognise that high self-esteem, confidence, supportive friends and clear lines of communication with trusted adults all help prevention.

We will therefore:

  • Be approachable to our children and give them the confidence that they will be listened to and will receive all the support and guidance that is required.
  • Ensure that our parents and carers understand that the children are our prime concern and that there may be occasions when we may need to refer to certain cases to outside agencies. We will also keep to ourselves aware of the fact that we will need to continue to foster relationships with parents after any such referral.
  • Keep ourselves up to date of new procedures by attending relevant courses and ensuring that all staff are aware of any changes.
  • Try to use any appropriate opportunities to raise awareness and understanding in our children; Circle Time activities etc.
  • Ensure that children know that they can approach all staff members and the Board of Directors if they are worried or are in difficulty.

 

 

The Wigan Safeguarding Children Board( WSCB)

‘Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children requires effective co-ordination in every local area. For this reason, the Children's Act 2004 requires each Local Authority to establish a Local Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB).The LSCB is the key statutory mechanism for agreeing how the relevant organisations in ach local area will co-operate to safeguard and promote the welfare of children the locality, and for ensuring the effectiveness of what they do'. (Working Together to Safeguard Children 2006). WSCB represents an agreed framework for working together to ensure that all children and young people within Wigan are safeguarded. It has produced ‘Joint Policies and procedures' for the protection of children and all members/agencies within the integrated approach based on the Common Processes and Common Assessment Framework which is reflected within this document.

 

 

The Designated  Child Protection Officer.

As required by central government guidance, Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited has a designated senior member of staff, known as the Designated Child Protection Officer, who is responsible for co-ordinating child protection/safeguarding issues within Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited and for liaising with other services. All staff are given current guidance on any new legislation changes as part of their whole staff annual training package. Currently the Designated Child Protection Officer is Heidi Lovely -Strategic Manager and Director of Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited. The Designated Child Protection Officer will be required to attend Child Protection/Safeguarding training which will be updated at least every two years. It is also their responsibility to ensure that all staff members of Earlybirds are made aware of who the Designated Child Protection Officer is and of any updates on Child Protection/Safeguarding Information/procedures.

 

The Designated Child Protection Officer will liaise with WSCB to ensure that;

 

  • The Child Protection Policy and Procedure in place are current and in line with relevant legislation
  • All staff are trained annually and any interim changes to legislation/guidance are relayed to them as soon as possible and appropriately.
  • All parents and carers are informed of Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited's Child Protection Policy and Procedure and can access the guidance at any time.



Recognising Possible Abuse.

Children can be harmed in a number of ways. Abuse can be physical, sexual and emotional or it can take the form of neglect. Children sometimes suffer more than one type of abuse at a time.

 

Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited will ensure that the Designated Child Protection Officer  is trained every two years and the rest of the staff members are trained annually to recognise signs of possible abuse or neglect and will know what to so if they suspect a child is suffering harm.

 

Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited  will strive to create an atmosphere in which children feel able and safe to talk about their worries and fears. Staff will listen carefully to anything children want to tell them. They will;

  • NOT ask leading questions
  • NOT promise to keep the matter secret
  • NOT attempt to investigate a situation themselves.

 

 

Staff might also have concerns about a child's safety because of the way he or she is behaving.

 

Whether suspicions arise through disclosures children make or as a result of observations, the member of staff concerned   MUST;

 

  • Make a written note, signed, dated and timed of what was said or seen.
  • Refer the matter immediately to the Designated Child Protection Officer and or the Operational Officer.

 

Staff will be aware of the possibility that their records might have to be used as evidence in court, and must therefore be aware of the need to distinguish fact from opinion.

 

 

Making Referrals to Social Services.

The Designated Child Protection Officer will refer all cases of suspected abuse to Social Service immediately. Where practical, the school will inform parents of the referral before it is made or at least as soon as possible afterwards if contact cannot be made wit them quickly. The only circumstances in which a parent will not be informed of a referral are if it considered;

  • The child might be at greater risk of harm as a result.
  • Such action might impede a criminal investigation.
  • The child might be a victim of fabricated or induced illness.

 

Referrals of suspected abuse of neglect would be made by telephone to the Central Duty Team on 01942 828300. This telephone call will be recorded, noting the name of the person spoken to, and will be followed up by a professional referral form being sent one copy to the Central Duty Team and the other to the CYPS. This will be sent by first class post (or hand delivered) to the Central Duty Team within 24 hours.

 

Any other referral( I.E those not of an immediate child protection nature), which Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited makes to the Central Duty Team will also be made on the professional referral form. In these circumstances the agreement of the child's /parent/primary carer will always be obtained beforehand.

 

The Child Support Team will contact the referrer after seven days following the Central Duty Team having received the professional referral form. The Child Support Team will follow the referral up and will feed the information back to school.

 

 

Where Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited believes a referral to be a matter of child protection, but staff in the Central Duty Team/Social Services are not of the same opinion, The Designated  Child Protection Officer can write to the Manager of the service. The Child Support Team will support them in this process.

 

 

Attendance at and Reports to Child Protection Conferences.

If Social Services decide, having received a referral from us, that a child might be at risk of harm a child protection conference may be called.

 

The Designated Child Protection Officer will be asked to attend.

 

Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited will provide the person chairing the conference with a written report on the child at least 48 hours in advance. It will be made known to all concerned that the child's parents/carers will have access to it.

 

 

 

Confidentiality.

Information on child protection cases will only be shared within Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited with those who need it in order to ensure the safety of the child concerned.

 

Well-kept records are essential and all information should be recorded as promptly as possible after the event by all concerned.

 

Transfer of Records.

When a child whose name is on the Child Protection Register leaves Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited, the Designated Child Protection Officer will inform the relevant social worker and send the child protection records to the most appropriate person as soon as possible.

 

When a child whose name is on the Child Protection Register arrives at Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited, the Designated Child Protection Officer will inform Social Services immediately.

 

Any concerns regarding access to child protection documentation will be reported to the Education Welfare Service or the most appropriate agency/service by the Designated Child Protection Officer.

 

 

Staff Recruitment.

Before confirmation of appointment, all staff (teaching and support) and volunteers who apply to work at Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited will be subject to a rigorous recruitment process to ensure, as far as possible, their suitability to work with children. References will be taken up and they will be required to produce evidence of their qualifications and details of previous experience and work history. All potential staff will also be required to declare any criminal convictions and Criminal Record Bureau checks will be undertaken. No- one will be employed it if is considered that they are unsuitable to work with children.

 

The WSCB guidance on what to do if you think a child is being abused are available for staff reference and are located in The Sunshine Room.

 

 

Allegations Against Staff.

Any allegations made against a member of staff or volunteer at Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited will be taken very seriously and will be dealt with by the Designated Child Protection Officer within the WSCB guidance- Wigan's Procedure in Respect of Allegations of Child Abuse made Against Staff. The allegations will not be investigated within the setting other than to establish the facts.

 

 

Training and Support.

At Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited, we are committed to Child Protection/safeguarding training. The appropriate training will be undertaken by all staff, in accordance to Section 175 of the Education Act 2002.

 

 

Conclusion.

The aim of these procedures is to ensure that all the children on roll at Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited are safe and free from harm. If they are considered to be at risk of or to have suffered abuse or neglect, Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited will take the appropriate steps outlined to minimise the risk or protect them from further harm.

 

 

Signed......................................................... Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited Director

 

Date.............................................

 

Review date : June 2010

 

Policy and Procedure.

                                Date: June 2008

  • All complaints will be acted upon promptly in accordance to our Equal Opportunity Policy.

 

  • This Policy considers complaints by all involved with Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited.
  • Each complaint received will be processed in the following way:

 

  1. The Operational Manager will initially speak with the complainant to find out the exact nature. All conversations will be recorded identifying the following:

 

  • o Date and time of complaint

 

  • o Persons making the complaint

 

  • o Other people involved

 

  • o Exact nature of the complaint

 

  • o Action taken to date by the complainant

 

  • o Outcome required by the complainant

 

  • o In the eventuality that a complaint is submitted to Ofsted, they normally refer all such complainants to Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited in the first instance. When Ofsted carry out an investigation into your continued suitability to provide childcare following a complaint, Ofsted will tell you the outcome of the investigation. When Ofsted do this, Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited should enter Ofsted as the source and the Ofsted complaint number, only if known. If a complaint is being made in regard to Ofsted, then it must be recorded how the nature of the complaint relates to a breach of their national standards.

    

  • o The process that Earlybirds took to ensure that the complaint was fully investigated, such as interviews, reviews of record.

 

  • o Who was involved in the investigation.

 

  • o Any referrals Earlybirds made to an external agency, for example local authority, environmental health departments or social services.

 

  • o Any action(s) identified by Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited.

 

  • o Any actions set or taken by Ofsted.

 

  • o Any action taken by another external agency, where Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited have their permission to do so.

 

  • o The outcome of Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited investigation, identifying any areas where Earlybirds.

 

  • o The details of any staff member dismissal. Earlybirds may need to refer the individual for inclusion onto the Protection of Children Act list (POCA). Earlybirds can find out how to do this by ringing Ofsted on 08456 40 40 40.

 

 

C  Earlybirds Childcare Club Limited must provide details about the outcome  of 24 hours of any outcomes.

      

 

 

 

  • Review Date: June 2010.
 
 

 

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