Health And Safety Policy

Introduction

This Health and Safety Policy outlines the procedures and guidelines for ensuring a safe and supportive environment for children and young people, specifically within trauma and ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences)-informed settings. It aims to protect the well-being of all service users, employees, and volunteers by preventing accidents, ensuring safety, and supporting recovery from trauma.

This policy complies with UK health and safety laws and regulations, including:

• The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
• The Children Act 1989
• The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
• The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
• The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002

Risk Assessments

A comprehensive risk assessment process will be carried out to identify potential hazards, assess risks, and implement control measures. The assessment will consider the following:

• Physical Risks: Safe premises and equipment, accessibility for young people with disabilities, fire safety measures, and vehicle safety.
• Psychosocial Risks: Ensuring that activities are trauma-informed, recognizing signs of distress, avoiding triggers that could worsen mental health or trauma, and providing support for young people who may struggle with overwhelming emotions.
• Environmental Risks: Ensuring that environments are safe, clean, and secure, and minimizing exposure to dangerous substances or situations (e.g., substance misuse, bullying).
• Activity-specific Risks: Assessing risks for specific activities, including sports, outdoor activities, and workshops, and making necessary adjustments based on individual needs and circumstances.

Procedures

1. Risk assessments will be reviewed regularly, particularly after any incident or near-miss.
2. Young people’s individual needs and trauma histories will be considered during risk assessments, with input from relevant professionals when necessary.
3. All staff will be trained to identify and respond to risks associated with both physical and emotional health.

Emergency Procedures

In the event of an emergency, the following steps will be taken:

1. Immediate Response:

• First Aid: Ensure that at least one member of staff is trained in first aid and that first aid kits are easily accessible. Any injuries, whether physical or psychological, will be addressed promptly.
• Evacuation: In case of fire, natural disaster, or any other life-threatening event, young people will be evacuated safely following established evacuation routes. Staff will ensure that vulnerable individuals, including those with additional needs, are supported during evacuation.
• Crisis Management: In the event of a serious emotional or psychological crisis (e.g., a young person experiencing distress or trauma), trained staff will follow de-escalation techniques, providing appropriate interventions and support.

2. Contacting Authorities:

• In case of significant injury or threat to life, emergency services will be contacted immediately (999).
• If an incident of safeguarding concern arises, such as suspected abuse or neglect, designated safeguarding leads will follow safeguarding protocols, including notifying relevant authorities (e.g., social services or the police).

3. Post-Incident Review:

• Following any emergency, a debriefing session will be held for staff to review the incident, identify learning points, and update procedures if necessary.
• A post-incident support plan will be created for the affected child or young person to address any emotional distress, including referral to trauma-informed counselling services where appropriate.

Maintaining a Safe Environment

Physical Safety:

• All premises used for activities must be regularly checked to ensure they are free from hazards (e.g., broken furniture, sharp objects, obstructed exits).
• Equipment will be maintained and cleaned regularly, with safety checks conducted before use.
• Secure entry and exit points will be in place to ensure young people’s safety, with staff trained to monitor and supervise arrivals and departures.

Psychosocial Safety:

• The environment must be calm, predictable, and welcoming. We will ensure that staff are trained in trauma-informed practices, including how to create a safe and nurturing atmosphere that considers the young person’s history of trauma and ACEs.
• Boundaries and expectations will be clearly communicated to help children and young people feel safe and supported.
• Trauma-informed support staff will be available to assist children who exhibit signs of distress or require additional emotional or behavioural support.
• There will be clear and consistent procedures for managing disruptive behaviour, with a focus on supporting young people to understand their emotions and how to manage them.

Communication:

• Staff will receive training on communication techniques that are sensitive to trauma, ensuring that young people feel heard and understood.
• Staff will use positive reinforcement and consistent language to support young people’s emotional and social development.

Safeguarding:

• Staff will follow strict safeguarding policies to ensure that children and young people are protected from abuse, exploitation, and neglect. This includes background checks for all staff and volunteers.
• The safeguarding policy will be reviewed regularly to reflect changes in law and best practices.

Staff Training

All staff, including temporary staff and volunteers, will undergo regular training to ensure they understand and comply with health and safety regulations, safeguarding procedures, and trauma-informed practices. This includes:

• Trauma-informed care and ACEs training.
• First aid and emergency response training.
• Mental health first aid and recognising signs of emotional distress.
• De-escalation and conflict resolution techniques.
• Safeguarding children and young people.

Reporting and Monitoring

• Incident Reporting: All accidents, injuries, near misses, and safeguarding concerns must be reported immediately. A system will be in place to log incidents and ensure they are followed up with appropriate actions.
• Regular Audits: Regular health and safety audits will be conducted to ensure compliance with all relevant legislation and best practices.
• Feedback Mechanisms: Feedback from young people, staff, and parents will be sought regularly to ensure that health and safety practices are working effectively, and that young people feel safe and supported.

Review and Continuous Improvement

This policy will be reviewed annually, or more frequently if required by incidents or changes in legislation. Any necessary revisions will be made based on feedback from staff, young people, and external regulatory bodies.

By adhering to these procedures, we aim to provide a safe and supportive environment for children and young people, one that fosters emotional and physical well-being while recognizing and addressing the impact of trauma and ACEs.