Missing child Policy

 

The safety and well-being of children are our utmost priority, both on and off our premises. We have implemented a comprehensive Missing Child Policy to ensure their security and minimise the risk of separation. The following measures are in place:

 

Attendance and Supervision:

• Every morning, we conduct a headcount of the children, and all children are signed in using our registration system upon arrival.

• We perform additional headcounts throughout the session to account for all children's whereabouts.

 

During trips outside the premises:

• We take the register and perform a headcount before leaving.

• Children are instructed to hold hands with or stay close to a designated adult.

• We avoid overcrowded areas to ensure better supervision.

• Children wear stickers with our contact number for identification purposes.

• We educate children about the dangers of wandering off, going somewhere without an adult, and talking to strangers.

• In the case of separation, children are taught to raise their hand and stay in one place. We make clear that we will look for them, not them looking for us.

• The register is checked upon reaching our destination, followed by another headcount.

• Before leaving the destination and upon returning to the setting, another register check and headcount are conducted.

 

In the unlikely event of a child going missing, our staff members are trained to take immediate action by following these steps:

 

1. Raising the Alarm: The staff member promptly alerts everyone in the vicinity about the missing child, enlisting their assistance in locating the child.

2. Seeking Assistance: If we are in a public place like a shopping centre, we immediately notify security, asking them to seal exits and review CCTV footage.

3. Providing Descriptive Information: We provide a detailed description of the missing child to all individuals involved in the search.

4. Reassuring Other Children: While searching for the missing child, we take the necessary steps to reassure the other children in our care, as they may become distressed or anxious.

5. Involving the Authorities and Parents: The police are alerted promptly, providing them with a recent photo of the missing child and details of their appearance and attire. Parents are immediately notified and updated about the situation.

6. Returning Children to the Setting: Our staff ensures the remaining children are safely returned to the setting as soon as possible, ensuring their well-being and addressing any concerns they may have.

 

CREATED: AUGUST 2023   NEXT REVIEW: AUGUST 2024