1. Policy Statement
Flying Tots Childcare is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children in our care. We recognise our responsibility to protect children from harm and ensure their safety in all our services. This policy applies to all Flying Tots nannies, chaperones, and staff.
2. Legal Framework
This policy complies with:
- The Children Act 1989 & 2004
- Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)
- The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
- The Data Protection Act 2018 & UK GDPR
- The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Framework (for relevant age groups)
- Local Safeguarding Children Partnership (LSCP) Procedures
3. Responsibilities
All Flying Tots staff must:
✅ Promote a safe and nurturing environment for children.
✅ Follow strict hiring and vetting procedures, including DBS checks.
✅ Attend regular safeguarding training.
✅ Report concerns or suspicions of abuse following our reporting procedure.
4. Code of Conduct
Flying Tots expects all staff to:
✔ Maintain professional boundaries when caring for children.
✔ Never use physical punishment or inappropriate discipline.
✔ Always act in the best interest of the child.
✔ Keep confidentiality, except when sharing information to protect a child.
✔ Avoid one-to-one situations in closed spaces where possible (e.g. keep doors open).
5. Safer Recruitment
We follow strict recruitment procedures, ensuring that all staff:
✔ Undergo an enhanced DBS check before working with children.
✔ Provide two professional references.
✔ Complete Paediatric First Aid and Safeguarding training.
✔ Sign and agree to this Safeguarding Policy.
6. Recognising and Responding to Abuse
Staff must be aware of the signs of abuse and neglect, including:
- Physical Abuse: Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries
- Emotional Abuse: Extreme withdrawal, low self-esteem, or fearfulness
- Sexual Abuse: Inappropriate knowledge or sexualised behaviour
- Neglect: Poor hygiene, malnutrition, or lack of supervision
Reporting Procedure:
1️⃣ Record the concern with date, time, and details
2️⃣ Report it immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
3️⃣ If a child is at immediate risk, contact Children’s Services or the Police (999)
7. Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
Name: Sharon T L Bastien (Director of Services)
Tel: 020 8993 3881
Mobile: 07958 576829
Email: info@flyingtots.co.uk
8. Lone Working & Risk Assessments
To minimise risks:
✔ Staff should avoid being alone with a child unless necessary
✔ Chaperones must document all transport arrangements
✔ Risk assessments must be completed before travel or home-based care
9. Whistleblowing
Staff are encouraged to report concerns about colleagues’ behaviour if it breaches safeguarding expectations. Flying Tots ensures confidentiality and protects whistleblowers from retaliation.
10. Insurance & Legal Protection
Flying Tots is fully insured under:
- Public Liability Insurance
- Professional Indemnity Insurance
- Employer’s Liability Insurance
11. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in Safeguarding
Flying Tots Childcare is committed to creating an inclusive, respectful, and supportive environment for all children, families, and staff.
We recognise that some children face additional risks due to:
✔ Race, ethnicity, or cultural background
✔ Disabilities or special educational needs (SEN)
✔ Gender identity or sexual orientation
✔ Language barriers or immigration status
✔ Religious beliefs
✔ Social or economic factors
We ensure:
✅ Equal protection and support for all children
✅ Staff are trained on cultural, disability, and gender factors in safeguarding
✅ Support for non-verbal communication and additional needs
✅ Ongoing policy review to promote fairness and inclusion
12. Policy Review
This policy is reviewed annually and updated as necessary to ensure compliance with statutory safeguarding frameworks and best practice guidance.