SAFEGUARDING POLICY
1. Introduction
Littlun's Sleep Company is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all children with whom we engage. This safeguarding policy outlines our commitment to safeguarding children and young people in accordance with the guidelines provided by the West Sussex County Council and relevant legislation.
2. Policy Statement
Littlun's Sleep Company recognises its responsibility to safeguard the welfare of all children and young people by protecting them from harm, exploitation, or abuse, whether physical, emotional, or psychological.
We are committed to creating a safe environment where children can thrive and develop to their full potential.
3. Responsibilities
Consultants: All consultants are responsible for familiarising themselves with this safeguarding policy and adhering to its guidelines. They must report any concerns regarding the safety or well-being of a child to the designated safeguarding officer. The named Designated Safeguarding Officer is Debi Wescott.
Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO): The DSO is responsible for overseeing the implementation of this policy, providing guidance to staff, and ensuring that appropriate safeguarding procedures are followed. The DSO will act as the main point of contact for reporting safeguarding concerns.
4. Safer Recruitment
All staff and consultants working with children will undergo appropriate background checks, including Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, to ensure their suitability to work with children.
References will be obtained and verified for all staff and consultants prior to their engagement.
5. Training and Awareness
All staff will receive training on safeguarding procedures, including recognising signs of abuse, reporting procedures, and their responsibilities in safeguarding children.
Training will be regularly updated to ensure staff are aware of current best practices and legislation regarding safeguarding.
6. Reporting Procedures
Any concerns regarding the safety or well-being of a child must be reported to the designated safeguarding officer immediately.
The designated safeguarding officer will follow the appropriate procedures for reporting concerns to the relevant authorities, such as the West Sussex County Council Safeguarding Team.
Should staff have a concern about the well-being or safety of a child, they will discuss this with the parent of the child in the first instance, unless it is likely to put the child at risk of harm.
7. Confidentiality
All safeguarding concerns will be handled with sensitivity and confidentiality. Information will only be shared with those who have a legitimate need to know in order to protect the child.
Staff must not discuss safeguarding concerns with anyone outside of the designated safeguarding channels without prior authorisation.
8. Support for Children and Families
We will provide support and signposting to children and families who require assistance with safeguarding concerns, including accessing appropriate services and resources.
We will work collaboratively with relevant agencies, such as social services and healthcare professionals, to ensure the best outcomes for children and families.
9. Review and Monitoring
This safeguarding policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect changes in legislation, best practice, or business operations.
Compliance with this policy will be monitored regularly to ensure its effectiveness and adherence by all staff and consultants.
10. Conclusion
Littlun's Sleep Company is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of safeguarding and child protection. We are committed to creating a culture where the safety and well-being of children is paramount, and where concerns are taken seriously and addressed promptly. Through the implementation of this safeguarding policy, we aim to create a safe and nurturing environment where all children can thrive.