Lone Worker Policy

 

The safety and well-being of our staff and volunteers are of utmost importance. We provide a secure working environment.

 

For all lone workers, the following training is mandatory as a minimum requirement:

 

• Paediatric First Aid

• Child Protection Training

• Prevent Duty

 

On certain occasions, when the number of staff members is below the required ratio, one staff member may be assigned to work alone in a specific room or area within the setting. Additionally, a member of staff may accompany a small group of children during outings in the community.

 

Lone working will only be allowed if the following conditions are met:

 

• The number of children present is below the required ratio and deemed appropriate.

• The lone worker holds at least an NVQ Level 3 qualification or its equivalent.

 

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Managers or other staff members will regularly check on lone workers.

 

Staff members with a Level 3 qualification or higher are authorised to supervise small groups of children outdoors. Some instances where lone working is considered acceptable include:

• When a small group of children wants to explore an outdoor area while the majority of children are engaged in indoor activities or sleeping.

• When a key person wishes to take a small group of children on a community walk in their local area.

• When a small group of children is visiting a nearby park.

 

Each lone working situation will be individually assessed and subjected to a thorough risk assessment, considering the staff and children involved, while ensuring that legal ratios are always maintained throughout the premises.

 

CREATED: AUGUST 2023   REVIEWED: JANUARY 2025