Safeguarding

What is safeguarding?

Safeguarding is about keeping children safe and protecting them from all types of harm. We have a duty to follow statutory guidance to meet the requirements as part of our registration as a provider and Ofsted inspect us to ensure children have the best possible care.

Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy

Seymour House has a child-centred approach to child protection recognising that the welfare, safety and protection of children is paramount. Seymour House builds a culture of safety in which children are protected from abuse and harm in all areas.  

The purpose of the policy statement is to:

• Ensure the suitability of adults who have contact with children; promote good health; manage behaviour; and maintain records, policies and procedures.  

• Ensure all staff recognise their duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of all children. 

Seymour House provides parents, team, visitors with the overarching principles that guide our approach to child protection. Policies and procedures apply to all children regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, sexuality or religion.

The policy has been drawn up on the basis of legislation, policy and guidance that seeks to protect children in England. We have due regard to and follow the procedures and to seek advice on all subsequent steps to take in the event of concerns. To read a full version of our safeguarding policy and procedure please speak to the Nursery Management Team.

Who safeguards children?

All adults working with or on behalf of children have a responsibility to protect them and to provide a safe environment in which they can learn and achieve their full potential.  Each nursery has their own Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL); this is usually the Nursery Manager or in their absence the Head of Early Years Practice. The DSL role involves taking responsibility for child protection and safeguarding within the nursery, liaising and working with local statutory children’s services agencies and being the point of contact for local safeguarding partners. As well as monitoring wellbeing and attendance and giving support and guidance where needed.

Should the DSL have any concerns about a child, they will confidentially share theseconcerns with parents in an open and transparent way and be available should parents wish to raise any concerns. They also have a legal duty to report any worries if they suspect a child may have been harmed.

All our team receive safeguarding training as part of their induction and annual refresher training thereafter.