SAFEGUARDING POLICY

1. Introduction

Early Years People Ltd is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. We ensure that all candidates, staff, and clients uphold the highest safeguarding standards in education. This policy outlines our approach to safeguarding and child protection in line with relevant legislation and best practices.

2. Legal Framework

This policy is guided by the Children Act 1989 & 2004, Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) – Latest Guidance, Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018, Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006, The Education Act 2002, and The Prevent Duty 2015.

3. Our Commitment to Safeguarding

We are dedicated to ensuring that all candidates placed in schools are thoroughly vetted through enhanced DBS checks and reference verification. Candidates receive guidance on safeguarding responsibilities before being placed in any educational setting. Our staff are trained in safeguarding best practices and understand their responsibility in preventing harm. Any safeguarding concerns are reported and addressed in line with statutory procedures.

4. Safer Recruitment

To ensure the highest level of safety, we implement a robust safer recruitment process. This includes enhanced DBS checks for all candidates, ensuring they have an up-to-date certificate or are willing to apply for one. A minimum of two professional references are required. Identity and qualification verification are conducted to validate right-to-work documents and credentials. Candidates also receive safeguarding training where necessary.

5. Reporting a Safeguarding Concern

If a candidate, client, or staff member has a safeguarding concern, they must report it immediately to Early Years People's Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). If required, the concern will be escalated to the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) or relevant safeguarding body. All procedures must be followed in compliance with safeguarding guidelines.

6. Prevent Duty

In line with the Prevent Duty (2015), Early Years People Ltd is committed to protecting children and young people from radicalisation and extremism. We work with educational institutions to ensure awareness and compliance with Prevent guidelines.

7. Confidentiality & Data Protection

We handle all safeguarding concerns with the utmost confidentiality and in line with GDPR and data protection laws. Information will only be shared with relevant authorities when necessary to protect individuals from harm.

8. Review & Updates

This policy is reviewed annually or as required to reflect changes in safeguarding legislation and best practices.

For further information or to report a safeguarding concern, please contact our Designated Safeguarding Lead.

Last Reviewed: 01/04/2025