Early Years in Dorset
This is defined as birth to 5 years. If you are caring for children aged between birth and five, you have to deliver the EYFS Early Years Foundation Stage (unless you are a nanny). Most providers who care for children in that age range have to join Early Years Register, but some providers are exempt from registration.
Making a Referral
If you have concerns about a child discuss with your manager / Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) if you remain concerned call the local authorities in your area.
Escalation Policy
Guidance about what to do if you disagree with decisions
Allegations against people who work with children
You will have a procedure in your setting that refers to allegations against a member of staff or volunteer
Use them. This is specifically important for the Employer to know about and understand. If you need further advice contact the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) 01305 221122
Polices and Procedures
The Pan-Dorset Safeguarding Children Partnership produces the statutory policies and procedures for safeguarding children in Dorset.
Safeguarding Training
Dorset’s Early Years safeguarding training programme covers:
- Level 2 Safeguarding Children
- Safer Recruitment
- Supervising to Safeguard Children (by request)
- Safer Working Practice (by request)
- Designated Safeguarding Lead – your role explained
The Pan-Dorset Safeguarding Children Partnership training team offer Level 3 Safeguarding Children training for all DSLs and deputy DSLs and for all childminders.
Courses can be booked on Nexus. There is also National Safer Working Practice Guidance available which will help you in your responsibilities.
Safer Recruitment
View up-to-date information on DBS checks including who requires them and Ofsted guidance. At least one member of any recruitment panel must have attended Safer Recruitment training
Child Protection Case Conferences
As a professional in your own right, you will be invited to attend Initial and Review Child Protection Case Conferences. You will need to prepare a report based on your knowledge of the child / family.
Learning from Serious Case Reviews
There are Serious Case Reviews nationally that have learning which is of significance in Dorset. To read the reports please click on the relevant links:
For more information on published Serious Case Review in Dorset
Prevent Duty (2015)
This duty means you must have due regard to preventing people being drawn into terrorism. In order to protect children in your care, you must be alert to any reason for concern in the child’s life at home or elsewhere. There is national guidance available which will help you in your responsibilities.
If you require further advice please email earlyyearsadvice@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk
