Nappy Gang's commitment to safeguarding

Safeguarding is central to our practice and underpins everything we do. All staff are trained to recognise the signs and symptoms that may indicate a child is suffering from, or likely to suffer from, harm. Every member of the team understands their responsibility to act immediately by reporting concerns to the designated person or the named back-up designated person. Our manager, Serge, is the Designated Safeguarding Lead, and the deputy manager, Naz, acts as the back-up. They are responsible for coordinating all safeguarding actions within the setting. The setting will not operate at any time without an identified designated person in place. The designated person ensures that all educators remain vigilant to indicators of abuse and neglect and understand how to identify and respond appropriately. All concerns about a child’s welfare are reported without delay to the designated or back-up designated person. 

When a child makes a disclosure, staff aim to gather just enough information to take appropriate action. Educators listen carefully and calmly, allowing the child time and space to speak. They do not question or interview the child, but may use gentle prompts such as “tell me more about that” or “show me again” if clarification is needed. Following any disclosure, staff immediately inform the designated person and do not pursue further questioning. All disclosures are recorded accurately on the 'Safeguarding Incident Reporting Form', using the child’s exact words and the precise responses given by staff. Any marks or injuries are documented clearly on a body diagram to ensure factual and detailed recording. 

The designated person makes a professional judgement about whether a referral to Social Care or other agencies is required, guided by the Local Safeguarding Children Partnership (LSP) threshold document. This framework ranges from Level 1, where a child’s needs are met through universal support, to Level 4, where specialist or statutory intervention is required due to significant risk of harm. We also recognise our legal responsibilities regarding Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). Under the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003, it is illegal to perform FGM or assist in enabling it in the UK or overseas. FGM is medically unnecessary, poses serious health risks, and most commonly affects girls between the ages of 0–15. We follow Local Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB) guidance in relation to FGM. The designated person remains informed about cultural or ethnic risk factors and shares this knowledge with staff to ensure awareness, vigilance, and appropriate action. 

 We are fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of every child in our care. Through strong leadership, ongoing staff training, clear reporting procedures, and accurate record-keeping, we ensure that any concerns are identified early and acted upon promptly and appropriately. Our designated safeguarding leads coordinate all actions in line with Local Safeguarding Children Partnership guidance and statutory requirements, including our legal responsibilities regarding Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). By maintaining vigilance, professionalism, and a child-centred approach at all times, we provide a safe, secure, and supportive environment where every child can feel protected and thrive. 

Working Together to Safeguard Children (GOV.UK)  https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/multi-agency-statutory-guidance-on-female-genital-mutilation/multi-agency-statutory-guidance-on-female-genital-mutilation-accessible-version?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Multi-agency Statutory Guidance on Female Genital Mutilation (GOV.UK) 

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/multi-agency-statutory-guidance-on-female-genital-mutilation/multi-agency-statutory-guidance-on-female-genital-mutilation-accessible-version?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Children Act 1989 & Children Act 2004 

https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/child-protection-system/england?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Safeguarding_Vulnerable_Groups_Act_2006?utm_source=chatgpt.com

NSPCC – Child Protection System Explained 

https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/child-protection-system/england?utm_source=chatgpt.com