Safeguarding & Child Protection

At Bentridge Early Years Ltd t/a Puddleduck Hook Lane Nursery, the safety, welfare and wellbeing of every child is our highest priority.

We are committed to providing a safe, secure and nurturing environment where children can learn, play and develop with confidence.

Our Commitment

We believe that every child has the right to be protected from harm and to grow up in an environment that promotes their health, development and wellbeing.

We are committed to:

• Promoting the welfare of all children.
• Providing a safe and supportive learning environment.
• Protecting children from abuse, neglect and exploitation.
• Listening to and respecting children's views and concerns.
• Working in partnership with parents, carers and external agencies.
• Maintaining robust safeguarding procedures and practices.

Safer Recruitment

We operate safer recruitment procedures to help ensure that all staff are suitable to work with children.

These procedures may include:

• Enhanced DBS checks where required.
• Verification of qualifications and references.
• Identity checks.
• Employment history reviews.
• Ongoing safeguarding training and supervision.

Staff Training

All members of staff receive safeguarding training appropriate to their role and are expected to remain vigilant to signs that a child may be at risk of harm.

Staff understand their responsibilities to report concerns promptly and in accordance with nursery safeguarding procedures.

Reporting Concerns

Any safeguarding concerns regarding a child's welfare are taken seriously and acted upon without delay.

Where appropriate, concerns may be shared with relevant safeguarding agencies, children's services, healthcare professionals, the local authority or the police in order to protect a child from harm.

Online Safety

We recognise the importance of protecting children in both physical and digital environments.

Our policies and procedures help ensure that technology and online resources are used safely and responsibly.

Working with Parents and Carers

Safeguarding is a shared responsibility. We work closely with parents and carers to promote children's welfare and encourage open communication regarding any concerns that may affect a child's wellbeing.

Policies and Procedures

Our safeguarding procedures are regularly reviewed to ensure they remain effective and compliant with current legislation, guidance and best practice.

Additional policies may include:

• Child Protection Policy
• Health & Safety Policy
• Behaviour Management Policy
• Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Policy
• Online Safety Policy
• Whistleblowing Policy

Contact Us

If you have any questions about safeguarding at our nursery, please contact:

Bentridge Early Years Ltd t/a Puddleduck Hook Lane Nursery
60 Hook Lane
Bognor Regis
West Sussex
PO22 8AR
Email: info@puddleducknursery.co.uk