Hopscotch takes the Health and Safety of its children and staff very seriously. The Hopscotch Health & Safety Statement is available in each setting and hosted online on our website.
Hopscotch implements a rigorous Caring for Children which is relevant to all aspects of our daily operations as an Ofsted registered childcare provider. The Holiday Club will maintain staff ratios to children as per OFSTED guidance appropriate for each age group and this will be managed by the Holiday Club Manager.
Hopscotch receives support on H&S matters from an external consultant, Armadillo Safety Solutions. They undertake frequent site audits and are also on hand to advise the Management Teams on how to respond to any serious incidents or accidents which might occur at any Hopscotch setting.
It is the responsibility of the Holiday Club Manager to ensure that a regular Health and Safety and Risk Assessment is undertaken and that members of staff are aware of the content of this.
Hazards identified will be evaluated by the Manager for the likelihood of the hazard causing harm. Measures will be introduced if the assessment shows that existing precautions are inadequate to eliminate or adequately control the hazard.
Staff members have a duty of care for themselves and anyone else who could be affected by their actions. Therefore, they have a responsibility to ensure that they:
- Are aware of and follow all policies or procedures.
- Always plan ahead.
- Do not put themselves in potential danger.
- Ensure that they have made themselves aware of the nearest place of safety.
- Be aware of the on-site security procedures.
The Holiday Club will adhere to the fire evacuation procedures for each venue it operates out of and there will be appropriately trained fire marshals on site to ensure that all children and staff evacuate safely in the event of a fire.
The Holiday Club Manager, or Supervisor will ensure that the fire evacuation procedure is understood by all staff working at the venue.
The safety and wellbeing of children, staff, and visitors is a priority. While the risk of terrorism is considered low, the organisation recognises its responsibility to remain vigilant and prepared. The setting will: • Maintain secure access to the premises, including controlled entry and exit points. • Ensure visitors are signed in and supervised at all times. • Keep external doors and gates locked where appropriate. • Monitor the site for any suspicious behaviour, unattended items, or unusual activity. • Provide staff with basic awareness of the UK “Protect Duty” (Martyn’s Law) principles, where applicable. • Encourage staff to report concerns immediately to the Manager or Designated Safeguarding Lead. • Follow police and local authority guidance in the event of a security-related incident. • Maintain emergency lockdown and evacuation procedures. • Liaise with local authorities and emergency services when required. All staff will receive appropriate guidance on security procedures as part of their induction and ongoing training.