Allegation of Abuse Policy

(EYFS Updated – September 2025)

Policy Statement: At Just Little Ones Childminding, safeguarding children’s welfare and well-being is our highest priority. We respond seriously and swiftly to any allegations of abuse, in compliance with the revised Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS, September 2025). This policy outlines our procedures for managing allegations, ensuring rigorous reporting, investigation, and provision of appropriate support.

Reporting Procedures:

  • All allegations or suspicions of abuse, whether raised by a child, observed by staff, or reported by others, must immediately be communicated to the Child Protection Designated Person (CPDP).
  • The CPDP is responsible for overseeing responses, coordinating with safeguarding agencies, and managing communication.

Confidentiality:

  • Allegations are handled with strict confidentiality, respecting privacy rights while ensuring information is shared appropriately for safeguarding purposes as per EYFS guidelines.

Immediate Response:

  • If a child is at immediate risk or harm, staff will take immediate protective action and notify emergency services as required.

Contacting Safeguarding Authorities:

  • The CPDP will promptly contact local child protection services and adhere strictly to EYFS 2025 statutory safeguarding and reporting procedures.
  • Complete cooperation with all external safeguarding investigations will be maintained.

Internal Investigation:

  • Conduct an impartial internal investigation, guided by local safeguarding authority advice.
  • External safeguarding agencies or professionals will be involved where necessary to ensure transparency and fairness.

Support for All Parties:

  • Comprehensive emotional and practical support will be provided to affected children, families, and involved staff, prioritising emotional well-being and ensuring compliance with EYFS 2025 standards.
  • Independent support or counselling may be arranged for involved parties.

Suspension Procedures:

  • Where necessary, staff accused of abuse may be suspended from duty during investigations to safeguard all children, in accordance with EYFS and employment law guidance.
  • Regular reviews of suspension status will be undertaken, considering updated information from investigations.

Communication with Parents:

  • Parents/guardians of the affected child(ren) will be sensitively informed of allegations, investigative steps, and outcomes, maintaining openness and transparency in accordance with EYFS principles.

Record Keeping:

  • Detailed records of all allegations, investigations, actions, and outcomes will be kept securely, in line with EYFS 2025 documentation requirements.
  • Records will remain confidential, accessed only by authorized personnel and safeguarding authorities.

Training and Awareness:

  • Staff will receive regular training updates on safeguarding and allegation management procedures in compliance with EYFS 2025.
  • Ensuring staff awareness of indicators of abuse and clear processes for raising concerns.

Review and Monitoring:

  • Policy reviewed annually or when legislation and EYFS standards change.
  • Regular feedback from staff, families, and safeguarding agencies will inform policy improvements and updates.

Alignment with EYFS 2025 Changes:

  • This policy adheres closely to EYFS 2025 standards, focusing on robust safeguarding, proactive response, comprehensive support, and clear communication.

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