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Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy

Balanced Bedtime sleep consultancy
Title: Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy

Last reviewed: January 2026

 

 

1. Purpose of This Policy

As a baby and child sleep consultant, I work closely with families and young children.
The safety and wellbeing of children is my top priority.

This policy explains how I safeguard children and respond appropriately to concerns about abuse, neglect, or harm, in line with UK law and best practice.

 

2. Scope

This policy applies to all children and families I work with, in person or remotely, including:

  • Home visits
     

  • Online consultations
     

  • Telephone or email support
     

It covers all interactions, observations, and records relating to children.

 

3. My Commitment

I am committed to:

  • Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all children I work with
     

  • Listening to children and parents, and respecting their views
     

  • Maintaining professional boundaries at all times
     

  • Following UK safeguarding guidance and legislation
     

  • Acting quickly and appropriately if I have any concerns
     

 

4. Recognising Concerns

Children may be at risk of harm or abuse in various ways, including:

  • Physical abuse – intentional injury or harm
     

  • Emotional abuse – persistent emotional maltreatment or neglect
     

  • Sexual abuse – any sexual activity involving a child
     

  • Neglect – failing to provide for a child’s basic needs
     

If I observe signs of abuse, or a child or parent shares concerning information, I will act in accordance with this policy.

 

5. Reporting Concerns

If I have concerns about a child’s safety or wellbeing:

  1. I will take the concern seriously and act promptly.
     

  2. I will document details accurately (date, time, observations, conversations).
     

  3. I will contact the relevant local authority or safeguarding team.
     

    • For urgent situations, I will call 999 if a child is at immediate risk.
       

  4. I may also seek advice from the NSPCC or Local Safeguarding Children Partnership.
     

  5. Where appropriate, I will inform the parent/guardian unless doing so would put the child at risk.
     

Important: I will never investigate or confront suspected abuse myself. My role is to report concerns safely and professionally.

 

6. Confidentiality & Information Sharing

  • I keep all information confidential, in line with my Confidentiality Policy and Data Protection Policy.
     

  • Confidentiality does not prevent reporting concerns about a child’s safety.
     

  • Information will only be shared with relevant safeguarding authorities or with your written consent.
     

 

7. Training & Professional Development

I commit to:

  • Keeping up to date with UK safeguarding guidance
     

  • Undertaking relevant safeguarding or child protection training
     

  • Maintaining awareness of signs of abuse or neglect
     

 

8. Review of This Policy

This policy is reviewed annually or whenever there are changes to legislation, best practice, or professional guidance.
The most recent version will always be available to parents and clients.

 

Contact Information

If you have concerns about a child’s safety, you can contact:

  • Your local children’s services / social care:
     

  • NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: 0808 800 5000
     

  • Emergency Services (if immediate risk): 999
     

For questions about this policy, please contact me:
Maddy@balancedbedtime.co.uk
07345 240195

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