At Happylands, the safety and wellbeing of children is our highest priority. We are committed to creating a secure, nurturing environment where every child feels safe, valued, and protected.
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and we take our duty of care seriously in all aspects of nursery life.
Our Commitment to Safeguarding
We follow robust safeguarding policies and procedures in line with:
- The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
- Local Safeguarding Children Partnership guidance
- National safeguarding legislation and best practice
Our safeguarding arrangements are designed to protect children from harm, promote their welfare, and ensure swift action is taken if concerns arise.
Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSL)
Happylands has a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and trained deputies who are responsible for:
- Overseeing safeguarding procedures
- Supporting staff with safeguarding concerns
- Liaising with external agencies when required
- Ensuring concerns are recorded and acted upon appropriately
Staff are fully aware of who the DSL is and how to report concerns immediately.
Safe Recruitment & Staff Training
We ensure children are cared for by adults who are suitable, qualified, and trustworthy.
- All staff undergo enhanced DBS checks
- Thorough recruitment and vetting procedures are followed
- Staff receive regular safeguarding training
- All practitioners hold current Paediatric First Aid and Safeguarding certificates
- Ongoing professional development ensures safeguarding knowledge remains up to date
Child Protection & Welfare
We are vigilant in recognising signs of:
- Abuse or neglect
- Changes in behaviour or emotional wellbeing
- Concerns relating to a child’s safety at home or elsewhere
Any concerns are recorded and reported in line with our safeguarding procedures and, when necessary, escalated to the appropriate professionals.
Online Safety
We take children’s digital safety seriously.
- Internet‑enabled devices are supervised and filtered appropriately
- Photographs and videos of children are only taken with written parental consent
- Personal data is stored securely in accordance with data protection legislation
Working in Partnership With Parents
Safeguarding works best when we work together. We:
- Encourage open and honest communication with parents and carers
- Share concerns appropriately and sensitively
- Offer guidance and support when families need it
If parents ever have safeguarding concerns, we encourage them to speak to a member of staff or the Designated Safeguarding Lead.
Our Promise to You
At Happylands, you can be confident that:
- Your child’s safety comes first
- Safeguarding procedures are clear, strong, and consistently followed
- Staff are trained, vigilant, and committed to protecting children
- Every child is treated with care, dignity, and respect
If you would like to view our full Safeguarding Policy then click here or speak to Sarah, our Designated Safeguarding Lead — we are always happy to help.