Nursery World - A Unique Child: Safeguarding

Childcarers can get a second, informed opinion when they're worried about a child, says Annette Rawstrone.

Let's say there's just something not quite right about the relationship between a child in your care and her parent. It's hard to put your finger on it, but you're worried that she never happily greets her mum and seems uncertain and watchful. Or you're not happy with how colleagues are interacting with children. Who can you go to with your concerns?

Your setting will have a procedure for safeguarding the welfare of the children in your care. But sometimes you may want the reassurance of a second opinion, or a confidential chat with someone who is removed from the situation.

The NSPCC wants to promote its helpline service to early years practitioners who are facing these difficult judgement calls. The free 24-hour helpline is manned by an experienced multi-disciplinary team of social workers, counsellors, teachers and nurses.

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