Child Safeguarding Statement
Hollyhill Knocknaheeny Family Centre
1. Our Commitment to Child Safety
At Hollyhill Knocknaheeny Family Centre, we are fully committed to safeguarding the children in our care and ensuring their safety and well-being at all times. We provide a safe, nurturing environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. Our practices are child-centred, and we uphold each child’s right to be protected, listened to, and respected.
2. Services Provided
We offer the following services for children aged 2 to 5 years:
– Part-time Crèche Service (2–3 years),
– Part-time Preschool Service (2 years 8 months – 5 years),
– Sessional Preschool Service (2 years 8 months – 5 years)
3. Management and Leadership
Our centre is managed by:
– General Manager: Lisa O’Brien
– Early Years Supervisor (Yellow Room): Niamh Kiely Hickey
– Preschool Leader (Blue Room): Lucyna Zwolinska
– Crèche Leader (Green Room): Sarah Fox
We are also supported by Early Years Educators, a CE Childcare Assistant, an AIMS support worker, a cook, and a caretaker.
4. Designated Child Protection Officers
– DLP (Designated Liaison Person): Lisa O’Brien – 021 4392300
– Deputy DLP: Niamh Kiely Hickey – 021 4392300
5. Child Protection Policy
The Family Centre is aware of its responsibilities under Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children.
All staff are trained in child protection procedures, including the Tusla E-learning module: Introduction to Children First. Confidentiality is maintained at all times.
Reporting Procedures:
– Concerns must be reported immediately to the Co-Ordinator.
– All records are securely filed in the Co-Ordinator’s office,
– If concerns arise, the Co-Ordinator will liaise with parents/guardians where possible,
– If necessary, the concern will be escalated to a designated person or reported directly to the Health Board Authority.
– Allegations regarding staff will be thoroughly investigated and documented, with appropriate action taken based on the outcome.
6. Risk Assessment
We have identified key risks and implemented clear procedures:
| Risk Identified | Procedure to Manage the Risk |
|---|---|
| Visitors to the Service | Sign-in/out procedures and access control |
| Recruitment | Adherence to recruitment and Garda vetting policies |
| Staff Not Being Re-Vetted | Re-vetting policy in place |
| Collection of Children | Written records and staff communication |
| Access to Internet | Yearly-reviewed internet safety policy shared with staff |
7. Safeguarding Procedures
In line with Children First Act 2015, we have adopted the following procedures:
– Management of allegations against staff or volunteers,
– Safe recruitment and vetting practices,
– Reporting child protection concerns to Tusla,
– Maintaining a list of mandated persons,
– Staff training on child safeguarding policies.
Mandated Staff Include:
Lisa O’Brien, Niamh Kiely Hickey, Lucyna Zwolinska, Sarah Fox, Mandy Daly, Sarah Conway, Kate McCarthy, Carmel Hope, Maryluces Rodrigues, Farhana Sharmin, Susan Brierley, Rebecca O’Connor, Fatema Akter
8. Review & Implementation
This statement is reviewed every two years or earlier if there is a material change.
It is accessible to parents and guardians upon request and is available on the premises. A copy will be made available to Tusla if requested.
Last Reviewed: 13 March 2024
Next Review Due: March 2026 (unless changes occur sooner)