Managing allegations against adults working with children in an Early Years setting
Managing allegations procedures should be applied when there is an allegation or concerns that any person who works or volunteers with children, in connection with their employment, (including supply staff) or voluntary activity has:
- Behaved in a way that has harmed a child, or may have harmed a child
- Possibly committed a criminal offence against or related to a child;
- Behaved or may have behaved in a way that indicates they may not be suitable to work with children.
The last bullet point above includes behaviour that may have happened outside an organisation that might make an individual unsuitable to work with children, this is known as transferable risk.
If an allegation is made against any adult who comes into contact with children in either a paid or unpaid capacity in the setting, the childminder or any person in the childminder setting must report the allegation or concern to the Local Authority Designated Officer by completing this online reporting form.
The LADO works on behalf of Coventry City Council and the Coventry Safeguarding Children Partnership to address, advise and manage allegations and concerns against staff, carers and volunteers by addressing matters of safety and wellbeing of children and young people.
A model policy, including flowchart guidance, is available for all Early Years Settings, including Childminders, to follow.