How can a safeguarding procedure be implemented that is accurate, informative, and clear to effectively support staff and parents in addressing safeguarding concerns about a child?

A well-implemented safeguarding procedure is essential for ensuring that concerns about a child’s welfare are identified and addressed effectively. For nursery and preschool leaders, having a robust, easy-to-follow safeguarding process supports staff in their responsibilities and reassures parents that their children are in a safe environment. An effective safeguarding procedure should be accurate, informative, and clear, ensuring that everyone knows what to do if they have concerns about a child.

Key Elements of an Effective Safeguarding Procedure

1. Clear Policies and Procedures

• The safeguarding policy should be written in simple, accessible language and be available to all staff and parents.

• It must align with statutory guidance, such as Working Together to Safeguard Children and the EYFS Framework.

• Procedures should outline how to recognise signs of abuse or neglect, how to report concerns, and what follow-up actions will be taken.

2. Staff Training and Awareness

• All staff should receive safeguarding training as part of their induction and have regular refresher sessions.

• Training should cover how to identify concerns, record incidents accurately, and follow the correct reporting channels.

• Staff should be confident in who to report to, typically the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).

3. A Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

• Every setting must have a trained DSL who takes responsibility for handling concerns, liaising with external agencies, and ensuring compliance with safeguarding policies.

• The DSL should be accessible to all staff and provide ongoing support and guidance.

4. Effective Record-Keeping

• All safeguarding concerns must be recorded accurately, dated, and stored securely.

• Records should include observations, actions taken, and any communications with external agencies.

• Digital safeguarding systems can help streamline documentation while maintaining confidentiality.

5. Open Communication with Parents

• Parents should understand the setting’s safeguarding policies and feel reassured that their child’s welfare is a priority.

• Staff should communicate sensitively with parents when concerns arise, except where this would put a child at greater risk.

• Offering safeguarding awareness sessions for parents can help build trust and strengthen a shared commitment to child protection.

6. Working with External Agencies

• Early years settings should establish strong relationships with local safeguarding partners, social services, and health professionals.

• Staff should understand when and how to escalate concerns beyond the setting.

• A clear reporting procedure ensures that serious concerns are handled appropriately and in a timely manner.

Creating a Culture of Safeguarding

An effective safeguarding procedure is not just about policies—it is about fostering a culture where staff, parents, and children feel confident in raising concerns. Leaders play a crucial role in ensuring that safeguarding is embedded in daily practice, regularly reviewed, and continuously improved.

By implementing a safeguarding procedure that is clear, informative, and accurate, early years settings can ensure that all children are protected, and that staff and parents are well-equipped to support their wellbeing.

AUTHOR:- Iona has nearly 10 years of experience supporting nurseries and childminders in curriculum planning, leadership, and safeguarding. Her writing is informed by public information and sector insight, aiming to provide accessible, practical support for professionals working with children. She is part of the On the Button team, helping deliver Well-being, Safeguarding and Complaint Management Software that empowers practitioners to identify concerns early and act confidently.

On the Button provides innovative software tailored to the needs of the early years sector, with a strong focus on EYFS well-being and early years safeguarding. Our tools help senior practitioners to confidently track concerns, maintain robust records, and respond effectively — all while meeting statutory guidance. From early years complaint management to team-wide safeguarding alerts, our platform puts children's safety and emotional health first.