(Childcare Setting – On-site and Off-site)
Policy Statement
I am 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:
- Ensure the immediate safety of all children and maintain supervision
- Administer first aid if trained and appropriate
- Contact emergency services (999) where necessary
- Remain calm and reassuring to support the children emotionally
- 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. 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
10. Policy Review
This policy is reviewed annually and following any critical incident.
Date of last review: Sept 2026
Next Review: Sept 2027
Signed: Jemma Ferriday