Accident & Injury Policy

(EYFS Updated – September 2025)

Policy Statement: At Just Little Ones Childminding, we prioritise the safety and welfare of every child in our care, adhering strictly to the revised Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS, September 2025). This policy outlines our procedures for accident prevention, appropriate and prompt response to injuries, and safeguarding the well-being of children during emergencies.

Preventing Accidents:

  • Regular comprehensive risk assessments of indoor and outdoor areas, equipment, and activities in line with EYFS guidelines.
  • Immediate resolution of identified hazards, and clear documentation of actions taken.
  • Age-appropriate education provided to children on personal safety and awareness of potential risks.

Supervision and Staff Ratios:

  • Maintain staff-to-child ratios as per the updated EYFS 2025 statutory requirements at all times.
  • Staff will consistently provide active supervision, promptly intervening to prevent accidents.

First Aid and Medical Assistance:

  • All childminders and assistants hold current Paediatric First Aid certification, compliant with EYFS 2025 standards.
  • Clearly labelled and regularly checked first aid kits are accessible at all times.
  • Immediate contact of emergency services for serious injuries or medical conditions, followed by prompt parental notification.

Incident Reporting:

  • Accurate, detailed recording of any accidents or injuries in the Accident & Incident Record Book as required by EYFS 2025.
  • Records include child’s details, date, time, location, nature of injury, response provided, and persons involved.
  • Records reviewed regularly to identify patterns or recurring issues, taking preventative action as necessary.

Parental Notification and Communication:

  • Parents/legal guardians informed immediately following any significant injury or emergency, with clear communication on circumstances and actions taken.
  • Minor injuries communicated to parents at the earliest practical opportunity upon collection, with details of first aid administered and any required follow-up.

Emergency Contact Information:

  • Maintain up-to-date emergency contact details, including parental information, alternate contacts, medical conditions, allergies, and specific needs.
  • Parents are responsible for promptly updating the setting if there are any changes in their child’s emergency information.

Review and Staff Training:

  • Annual review of this policy, or more frequently if EYFS regulations are amended or following an incident.
  • Continuous professional development provided for staff to remain knowledgeable about best practices in accident prevention, incident response, and EYFS requirements.

Alignment with EYFS 2025 Changes:

  • This policy fully integrates the EYFS September 2025 amendments, ensuring enhanced safeguarding procedures, improved accident prevention strategies, and robust reporting mechanisms.

Signed: Jemma & Dale Ferriday
Date: August 2025
Review Date: April 2027