Page 42 - 1.Felicity Online policies 2021

 An allegation can be a way of seeking attention.

If an allegation is made against an adult in a position of trust whether they be
members of staff or volunteers this should be brought to the immediate attention of
the SDL who will advise the Proprietor. In the case of the allegation being made
against the SDL this will be brought to the immediate attention of the Proprietor.
The SDL/Proprietor will need to discuss with the Local Authority Designated Lead
(LADO) the nature of the allegations made against the adult, in order for the
appropriate action to be taken. This may constitute an initial evaluation meeting or
strategy discussion depending on the allegation being made. Proprietor will need to:

 Refer to the Local Authority Designated Lead (LADO) immediately and follow up
in writing within 48 hours. Consider safeguarding arrangements of the child or
young person to ensure they are away from the alleged abuser.
 Contact the parents or carers of the child/young person if advised to do so by
the LADO.
 Consider the rights of the staff member for a fair and equal process of
investigation.
 Advise Ofsted of allegation within 14 days of the allegation
 Ensure that the appropriate disciplinary procedures are followed including
whether suspending a member of staff from work until the outcome of any
investigation if this is deemed necessary.
 Act on any decision made in any strategy meeting.
 Advise the Disclosure and Barring Service where a member of staff has been
disciplined or dismissed as a result of the allegations being founded.

A copy of “What to do if you’re worried a child is being abused, Advice for Practitioners”
booklet is kept with this policy. This sets out the guidelines on dealing with incidents,
disclosures and the procedures that must be followed.

Confidentiality
 We recognise that all matters relating to child protection are confidential.
 The SDL will disclose personal information about a child or young person to other
members of staff on a need to know basis only.
 However, all staff must be aware that they have a professional responsibility to
share information with other agencies in order to safeguard children.
 All staff must be aware that they cannot promise a child to keep secrets which might
compromise the child’s safety or well-being or that of another.
 We will always undertake to share our intention to refer a child to MASH (multi
agency safeguarding hub) Social Care with their parents /carers consent unless to do
so could put the child at greater risk of harm, or impede a criminal investigation. If in
doubt, we will consult with the EYCS Safeguarding Team or MASH Consultation Line
on this point.