Safeguarding Health and Wellbeing in Early Years Settings

In early years settings, safeguarding is paramount. Children are among the most vulnerable in society, and it is essential that nurseries and preschools implement strong measures to protect their health, safety, and rights. This includes ensuring medical care is never denied and preventing any risk of substance exposure or coercion.

Preventing the Denial of Medical Care

Children rely on caregivers to meet their medical needs. Failing to provide necessary medical attention can lead to serious health risks. Nurseries and preschools must ensure:

• Clear Policies on Medical Care – Staff should have clear guidelines on administering first aid and responding to medical concerns.

• Parental Consent and Communication – Parents should provide up-to-date medical records, and any health concerns should be communicated promptly.

• Training for Staff – Staff must be trained in first aid, recognising signs of illness, and responding to emergencies appropriately.

• Emergency Procedures – A well-documented process should be in place for calling emergency services when necessary.

• Record Keeping – Detailed logs of accidents, illnesses, and the administration of medication should be maintained to ensure transparency.

• Regular Health Checks – Encouraging routine health and developmental checks helps identify any concerns early.

Preventing the Forcing of Substance Use

Substance misuse or exposure in early years settings is a serious safeguarding concern. Measures to prevent this include:

• Strict Medication Policies – Any medication administered in the setting must have explicit parental consent and be stored securely.

• Staff Vetting and Training – Rigorous recruitment checks, including DBS screenings, ensure staff suitability. Ongoing training helps them recognise and prevent substance-related risks.

• Supervision and Transparency – Ensuring that at least two staff members are present during medical administration reduces the risk of misconduct.

• Educating Staff and Parents – Raising awareness about the dangers of substance misuse and how to spot the signs of exposure in children.

• Whistleblowing Policy – Staff should be encouraged to report any concerns without fear of repercussions, ensuring a culture of accountability.

Legal and Regulatory Responsibilities

UK early years providers must adhere to statutory safeguarding guidance, including:

• The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Framework – Outlines health and safety requirements for childcare settings.

• Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) – Provides guidance on safeguarding children, including medical care and substance protection.

• The Children Act 1989 & 2004 – Ensures children’s welfare is a legal priority.

• The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 – Requires appropriate background checks for individuals working with children.

Safeguarding children’s health, safety, and rights requires a proactive approach. Early years settings must have robust policies, well-trained staff, and clear procedures to prevent the denial of medical care and protect children from substance-related risks. By fostering a culture of care and vigilance, nurseries and preschools can ensure that every child receives the support they need to thrive.