What you need to know
Stay safe and enjoy! Your guide for what to look for when choosing a service or activity from the directory.
The purpose of the Hammersmith & Fulham Family Information Service Directory is to provide information on local and national services for borough children, young people, parents and professionals.
It remains the user's responsibility to ensure that services being sought are appropriate for your needs and the needs of your child or children. For additional information on recommended basic health and safety measures, please view the safety checklist below.
By accessing the information contained on the FISD web pages you confirm you agree and understand that neither the LBHF Council nor any of its employees are responsible or shall be liable for any claim, loss or damage resulting from the use of the FISD website (www.lbhf.gov.uk/fisd) Remember, a good service will welcome questions about their activities and be happy to tell you how they ensure the safety of their users'.
Staff
- Are the staff and volunteers suitable? All staff working with, or having access to children, young people or vulnerable adults should have a current Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check.
- Make sure that you are satisfied that there are enough adults to supervise the number of children.
Chidcare registration and regulation (for under 8's)
- Find out if the service is registered with Ofsted? The Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted) is responsible for the regulation and inspection of childcare provision within the United Kingdom for under 8's.
For further information about how and what Ofted inspect and regulate refer to http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/Ofsted-home/Forms-and-guidance/Browse-all-by/Other/General/Information-for-parents-and-carers-using-childcare-services. - Find out if the service belongs to a professional organisation or quality assurance scheme?
- The Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) produce a guide called '0-5 Years: The Essential Guide to Early Learning and Childcare For You and Your Family' which has further details about questions that you should ask of a childcare provider to ensure that you are happy to use them. To view or download a copy visit www.lbhf.gov.uk/familyinformationservice.
Services that are registered with Ofsted or have a quality assurance award are clearly marked on the Family Information Service Directory.
Individual Needs
- What should I do if a child, young person or adult has a specific need? In the first instance you should always talk to the organiser/manager of the service, and discuss you/ or your child's individual needs. They will be able to tell you about the type of support they will be able to offer.
- Make sure the provider is aware of any medical conditions that your child may have.
Safeguarding
- All organisations should have a child protection policy; including a statement on how they keep children and young people safe.
- Are staff trained in safeguarding legislation and when did they last have training?
- Does the service have an internet safety policy? If the service allows children and young people to access the internet, find out their guidelines or filtering software to ensure safe surfing on the internet.
Behaviour
- Is there a code of behaviour? All organisations should have a written code of behaviour to show how as a service they manage difficult behaviour.
Health & Safety
- Does the organisation have a health and safety policy?
- Make sure that the provider has your up to date contacts as the parent/carer, and an alternaitve contact for emergencies. Parent Participation
- Does the service expect the parents/carers to participate in, or be present during the activities? This is usually only relevant with the under 8's.
Other ways to find out about a service
- Visit the setting or group before you start using them regularly.
- Contact them to request a leaflet or talk to a staff member to find out more about what they offer.
- Ask for references or try and speak to other people using the service.
- If your children are using a service ask them questions about their activities and listen to any concerns they may have.
What you should do if you have concerns?
- Find out how can children, young people and their parents or carers voice their concerns within the service.
- Depending on the nature of the concern, speak to the person in charge or the manager.
- If you have a serious concern about a child at risk of abuse, please contact the Hammersmith & Fulham Contact and Assessment centre on 020 8753 5392.
People can be reluctant to voice their concerns in case they are wrong or worried about the impact on your child or young person. If you are concerned you must take action for the well-being of the child or young person involved.