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Safeguarding Policy

1. Purpose and Commitment
The Little Phonics Club is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children attending sessions. All children have the right to learn in a safe, secure, and nurturing environment, free from harm, abuse, or neglect.

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2. Safeguarding Training
Miss Alicia holds Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and has completed accredited Level 3 Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) training through High Speed Training, in line with national safeguarding standards.

This training ensures she is fully equipped to:

  • Recognise and respond to signs of abuse or neglect

  • Make appropriate referrals to the local safeguarding authority

  • Maintain confidential and accurate records

  • Understand and act upon responsibilities under the Prevent Duty

Miss Alicia refreshes this training every two years to stay up to date with best practice and statutory guidance.

 

3. Responding to Concerns
Any concerns about a child’s welfare—whether physical, emotional, or behavioural—will be taken seriously and acted upon promptly.

Concerns may arise from:

  • A child’s behaviour, appearance, or disclosures

  • Observations during sessions

All concerns will be recorded factually, including dates, times, and any direct quotes. Miss Alicia will:

  • Monitor the situation

  • Speak with the child and/or parents if appropriate

  • Contact the local authority if further action is needed

If there is an immediate risk of harm, Miss Alicia will contact emergency services (999) without delay.

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4. Reporting Procedures
As the sole teacher and Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), Miss Alicia is responsible for:

  • Recording and responding to concerns

  • Seeking advice or making referrals to the local authority

  • Keeping confidential records securely

DSL Name: Alicia Berry
Contact: 07969 640 243.

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5. Prevent Duty
In line with the Prevent Duty, Miss Alicia remains alert to signs that a child may be at risk of radicalisation or exposure to extremist views. Indicators might include:

  • Sudden changes in behaviour

  • Expressing extremist ideologies

  • Withdrawal or increased isolation

Concerns relating to radicalisation are treated as safeguarding issues and handled through the same procedures.

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6. First Aid

Miss Alicia holds a valid Paediatric First Aid qualification appropriate for working with children aged 5–7. This training ensures she is equipped to respond confidently to a range of child-specific medical emergencies, including CPR, choking, allergic reactions, and minor injuries.

In addition, Miss Alicia is trained in Youth Mental Health First Aid, enabling her to recognise signs of emotional distress, anxiety, or mental health concerns in children, and respond with appropriate support or onward referral if needed.

A fully stocked first aid kit is always present on site, and all incidents—whether physical or emotional—are recorded appropriately. First aid training is reviewed and renewed regularly to maintain up-to-date knowledge and compliance.

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7. Local Authority Contact Information
Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) – Lambeth

Lambeth Integrated Referral Hub (for general safeguarding concerns)

  • Office Hours (Mon–Fri, 9 am–5 pm): 020 7926 3100

  • Out-of-Hours: 020 7926 5555

Lambeth Safeguarding Children Partnership (LSCP)

Out-of-Hours Emergency Duty Team

  • Phone: 020 7926 5555

 

8. Review and Access

  • This policy is reviewed annually or when guidance changes.

  • A copy is available to all parents and carers on request.

  • Miss Alicia remains committed to best safeguarding practice across all areas of her provision.

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