A nursery practitioner and a young child playing together at a water tray.

Safeguarding
in our Centres.

Within Busy Bees the safety, wellbeing and happiness of every child is our highest priority. We are committed to providing a safe, nurturing and inclusive environment where children can learn, develop and thrive.

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and we work closely with families, professionals and partner agencies to ensure every child is protected from harm.

A practitioner sharing a picture book with a young child.

Safeguarding Reporting Procedures.

Every member of staff has a duty to act if they are concerned about a child’s safety and welfare. If a safeguarding concern arises:

  • The concern is recorded accurately and promptly.
  • It is reported to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or Deputy DSL.
  • Appropriate action is taken in accordance with local safeguarding partnership procedures and statutory guidance.
  • Where necessary, referrals may be made to Children’s Social Care or other relevant agencies.
  • Confidentiality is maintained while ensuring information is shared appropriately to protect children.

We always act in the best interests of the child.

A smiling toddler in a painting apron during a messy play activity.

Whistleblowing.

We promote a culture of openness, honesty and accountability. All staff have a professional responsibility to raise concerns if they believe a child may be at risk or if they have concerns about the conduct or practice of a colleague.

Our Speak Up policy enables staff to escalate concerns confidentially and without fear of reprisal. All concerns are taken seriously, investigated appropriately and managed in line with statutory safeguarding guidance.

A practitioner supervising a young child climbing on low wooden play equipment.

Safer Recruitment.

We are committed to employing staff who are suitable to work with children.

Our safer recruitment procedures include:

  • Thorough application and interview processes.
  • Verification of identity and qualifications.
  • Enhanced DBS checks.
  • References obtained before employment.
  • Checks on employment history and suitability to work with children.
  • Ongoing supervision, induction and safeguarding training for all staff.

These measures help ensure that children are cared for by trusted, qualified and suitable adults.

A smiling baby looking up at a nursery practitioner during play.

Safe Sleep.

We follow current national guidance to ensure babies and young children sleep safely while in our care.

Our safe sleep practices include:

  • Placing babies on their backs to sleep.
  • Using clear sleep spaces free from loose bedding, pillows, toys and bumpers.
  • Regularly checking sleeping children throughout their sleep.
  • Maintaining appropriate room temperatures.
  • Working in partnership with parents to understand each child’s individual sleep routine while ensuring safe sleep guidance is always followed.
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A child sitting at a table with a practitioner at mealtime.

Safe Eating.

Mealtimes are carefully planned to promote children’s health, wellbeing and safety.

We support mealtimes in becoming calm positive learning experiences by:

  • Following robust food hygiene procedures.
  • Maintain accurate records of allergies, dietary requirements and medical needs.
  • Ensure staff are trained to recognise and respond to allergic reactions.
  • Supervise children during all meals and snacks ensuring there is a paediatric first aid trained person present at mealtimes.
  • Prepare food in age-appropriate sizes to reduce choking risks.
A practitioner playing outdoors with a toddler.

Appropriate Use of Mobile Devices.

To protect children’s privacy and safety, strict procedures are in place regarding mobile phones and electronic devices.

Our expectations include:

  • Personal devices are stored securely during working hours.
  • Photographs of children are only taken using authorised nursery devices with devices being monitored frequently.
  • Images are stored securely in accordance with data protection requirements.
  • Parents and Visitors are asked not to use mobile phones in areas where children are present.

These procedures help protect children’s privacy and ensure their safety.

A practitioner reading a story to a group of children in the garden.

Staff Training.

All staff receive regular safeguarding training to ensure they remain knowledgeable, confident and up to date with current legislation and best practice.

Training includes:

  • Child protection and safeguarding, including recognising signs of abuse and neglect and Prevent Duty awareness.
  • Paediatric First Aid.
  • Food hygiene.
  • Safe sleep guidance.

Safeguarding is discussed regularly through supervision, team meetings and ongoing professional development.

A young child riding a balance bike in the nursery garden.

Working with the NSPCC.

We work with national safeguarding initiatives and follow guidance produced by the NSPCC alongside statutory guidance from the Department for Education.

The NSPCC provides expert advice, resources and support to help keep children safe and to raise awareness of child protection.

Parents can also access information and guidance directly through the NSPCC website if they have concerns or would like further advice about keeping children safe.

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A parent holding their child while talking with a nursery practitioner at the door.

Support for Parents.

We believe that working in partnership with families gives children the best possible start in life. We understand that every family may need support at different times, and we are committed to working with parents in a respectful, confidential and supportive way.

If you ever have concerns about your child’s safety, wellbeing or development, we will in the first instance provide support and guidance and will be able to signpost you to additional services where required.

Together, we can help ensure every child is safe, happy and able to reach their full potential.