Critical Incident Plan Policy

Policy Statement

We are committed to ensuring the safety, wellbeing and care of all children both within my home and when we are off-site. This plan outlines the procedures I will follow in the event of a critical incident, to protect children, communicate with parents and relevant authorities, and manage the situation calmly and effectively.

This policy supports the safeguarding and welfare requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and reflects good practice expected by Ofsted.

2. Definition of a Critical Incident

A critical incident is any sudden, serious, or unexpected event that could cause harm, distress, or significant disruption to children, families, or the childminding service.

This applies both on my premises and while off-site.

Examples include (but are not limited to):

  • Serious accident or injury to a child or adult
  • Serious illness or medical emergency
  • A child going missing or becoming separated from the group
  • Fire, flood, gas leak, or loss of utilities
  • Intruder or threat to personal safety
  • Transport incident (e.g. road traffic accident while walking or travelling)
  • Extreme weather or major local emergency
  • Death of a child, family member, or childminder
  • Serious allegation or safeguarding concern

3. Immediate Response (On-site and Off-site)

In the event of a critical incident, I will:

  1. Ensure the immediate safety of all children and maintain supervision
  2. Administer first aid if trained and appropriate
  3. Contact emergency services (999) where necessary
  4. Remain calm and reassuring to support the children emotionally
  5. Follow evacuation, lockdown, or emergency procedures appropriate to the location

4. Critical Incidents Off-site

When a critical incident occurs while we are away from my setting, I will:

  • Secure the safety of all children in my care, prioritising supervision
  • Move children to a safe location if required (e.g. away from traffic or danger)
  • Contact emergency services if necessary
  • Carry essential items at all times, including:
    • Mobile phone
    • Emergency contact details
    • First aid kit

If a child becomes missing or separated:

  • I will immediately search the immediate area
  • Contact the police if the child is not found quickly
  • Inform parents and relevant authorities as appropriate

5. Fire Emergency Plan

If a smoke detector sounds, or a fire is detected, the priority is to evacuate the children from the building.

I have access to a telephone and a fire blanket that would only be used if a fire were preventing escape from the setting.

Fire Escape Plan

  • Lead all children out of the house
  • Assemble across the road at a safe distance and check that everyone is accounted for.
  • Notify the fire brigade.
  • Contact parents or their emergency contacts to arrange collection of the children
  • Take refuge in a neighbour or friend’s home until collection is possible.
  • Follow the instructions of the Emergency Services.
  • Do not return to the building until the Emergency Services have declared it safe to do so.
  • Phone Ofsted

I always carry my mobile phone which is fully charged.  All contact numbers for each child are held on the phone (parent’s contact numbers and emergency contacts). 

5. Communication

  • Parents/carers will be informed as soon as reasonably possible, once children are safe
  • Information shared will be factual, clear, and appropriate
  • In serious incidents, I will follow guidance for notifying Ofsted and other relevant bodies within required timescales
  • Confidentiality will be maintained at all times

6. Safeguarding and Reporting

If the incident involves:

  • A serious injury or death
  • A safeguarding concern or allegation of harm
  • An event affecting my suitability to care for children

I will:

  • Notify Ofsted without delay
  • Contact the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) if required
  • Follow my Safeguarding Policy and Local Authority procedures

7. Continuity of Care

If I am unable to continue childminding due to a critical incident:

  • Parents will be informed immediately
  • Emergency contacts or authorised collectors will be used
  • Temporary closure may be necessary to ensure safety

8. Recording the Incident

I will keep a written record of:

  • Date, time, and location of the incident (including off-site location)
  • Who was involved
  • Actions taken
  • Any injuries or outcomes
  • Notifications made

Records will be stored securely and shared only with appropriate parties.

9. Review and Support

After a critical incident:

  • The incident will be reviewed to identify learning points
  • Risk assessments and procedures will be updated if required
  • Emotional support will be offered to children as appropriate
  • Parents will be informed of any relevant changes

Policy Review
This policy is reviewed annually and following any critical incident.

Date of last review: Jan 2026
Signed: Jemma & Dale Ferriday 
Review Date: April 2027