(Updated for EYFS 2025)

Policy Statement
At Just Little Ones Childminding, we are committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all children, staff members, parents, and visitors. This policy outlines our approach to risk assessments, ensuring that potential hazards are identified, risks are evaluated, and appropriate control measures are implemented to maintain a safe environment.

Risk Assessment Process
• Risk assessments will be conducted for all areas of the childminding setting, including indoor and outdoor spaces, equipment, and activities.
• Off-site activities and outings will be assessed separately, considering location-specific risks.
• Risk assessments will be ongoing and regularly reviewed to address changes in the environment, equipment, or activities.

Identified Hazards
• Hazards may include physical, environmental, health-related, fire, and emergency hazards.
• Childminders will conduct daily checks to identify new risks.
• Any new hazards identified will be recorded, and immediate action will be taken where necessary.

Risk Evaluation
• Each identified hazard will be evaluated based on likelihood and severity.
• A risk rating scale will be used to determine the level of risk associated with each hazard.
• Where possible, hazards will be eliminated; if this is not feasible, control measures will be put in place to reduce risks to an acceptable level.

Control Measures
• Preventative actions will be implemented to reduce or eliminate risks.
• Safety measures may include modifying the environment, providing protective equipment, or implementing specific supervision protocols.
• Control measures will be monitored regularly to ensure their effectiveness.

Staff Training
• All staff members will receive training in risk assessment procedures, hazard identification, and safety measures.
• Training will include emergency protocols, first aid, and fire safety.
• Staff will be expected to actively participate in maintaining a safe environment.

Record Keeping
• Written records of all risk assessments will be maintained and updated regularly.
• Records will include identified hazards, risk evaluations, control measures, and review dates.
• Documentation will be securely stored in compliance with data protection regulations.

Parental Involvement
• Parents or legal guardians will be informed about the risk assessment process and the safety measures in place.
• Parents will receive details on emergency procedures, safety policies, and off-site risk assessments for outings.
• Parent feedback on safety concerns will be welcomed and considered in risk management.

Regular Reviews
• Risk assessments will be reviewed annually or more frequently if required due to changes in the setting, equipment, or legislation.
• Following an incident or near miss, risk assessments will be immediately reviewed and updated to prevent reoccurrence.

Alignment with EYFS 2025 Changes
• The EYFS 2025 framework emphasises the importance of continuous risk assessment to ensure children’s safety while allowing for exploration and learning.
• This policy aligns with EYFS 2025 safety expectations, supporting a proactive approach to risk management in indoor and outdoor environments.
• We ensure that children have opportunities to take managed risks in a controlled environment, fostering independence, resilience, and problem-solving skills.

Review and Monitoring
• This policy will be reviewed annually or more frequently as needed to comply with EYFS 2025 and local legislation.
• Staff, parents, and external agency feedback will be welcomed to support continuous improvement in risk assessment processes.

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