Health and Safety

All toys will be checked and cleaned regularly to ensure they are safe for your child to use. Any broken or hazardous toys will be removed immediately. Children will only be offered toys and resources that are suitable for their age/stage of development.

I do a quick risk assessment of my home every morning before the children arrive to ensure that it is a safe environment for minded children. All plug sockets not in use have socket covers. All equipment will be checked and cleaned regularly. All equipment is fitted with the correct safety harnesses to prevent accidents, for example highchair and pushchairs.

I use safety equipment appropriate for the children in my care, i.e. stair gates, cupboard locks etc. These are checked regularly. I will keep my front door locked with the keys on a hook up high to prevent the children opening the door to strangers. I have procedures in place in the event of a fire.

I keep my kitchen very clean, following hygiene guidelines on the storing of food, keeping the fridge at the correct temperature etc. I ensure that the children do not have access to any waste, the bins are emptied daily and any used nappies are double wrapped and placed in the outdoor rubbish bin.

I will work with you to teach the children about safety issues like crossing the road and stranger danger. I will work with you to teach the children about making healthy food choices and physical exercise. Sleeping children will be regularly checked.

Any spills of blood, vomit or excrement will be wiped up with antibacterial wipes and flushed down the toilet. Disposable gloves will always be used when cleaning up spills of body fluids. Floors and other infected areas will be disinfected using an anti-bacterial bleach or cleaner, according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Soiled pants and clothing will be rinsed and placed in a bag to be taken home. All surfaces will be wiped daily with an appropriate cleaning agent. Different cleaning cloths will be used for kitchen and bathroom areas.

Raw food and cooked food will be prepared in separate places. Waste will be disposed of correctly in a bin, out of the children's reach and after using it, I will wash my hands thoroughly.

Any food or drink that needs heating will be heated immediately prior to serving and not left standing. No food or drink will be reheated. Children will not be offered leftovers. Cracked or chipped cups, beakers and plates etc will not be used.

I will ensure that my first aid equipment remains clean, replenished and replaced as necessary. Sterile items will be kept sealed in their original packages until needed. If an accident occurs to a child whilst they are in my care, then I will write an accident report, which the parent must sign and date upon collection.

I am happy to discuss any health issues with parents at anytime and obtain information if possible. Written parental consent is obtained at the initial onset of placement to seek any necessary emergency medical treatment etc that may be needed in the future, whilst in my care.