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health
safety
staff
Parents
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Alcohol and Drugs PolicyThe nursery is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all children in our care. As an Ofsted-registered childcare provider, we must ensure that all adults caring for children are suitable, alert, and able to always fulfil their responsibilities.
No employee, volunteer, student, agency worker, or other adult working with children may be under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or the misuse of prescribed or over-the-counter medication whilst responsible for children. Prescribed Medication Staff who are prescribed medication that may affect their ability to work safely must inform the manager and complete the appropriate medication declaration form. Where medication may impair judgement, alertness, concentration, or the ability to care for children safely, staff should seek advice from their GP or pharmacist before attending work. If the manager believes that a staff member's ability to work safely is impaired, they may be asked to leave work immediately and obtain medical advice before returning. Alcohol and Drugs Staff must not consume alcohol during working hours, including breaks. Staff must report for work fit to carry out their duties and free from the effects of alcohol, illegal drugs, or any substance that may impair their ability to care for children safely. Staff must not consume alcohol minimum of 10 hours before their shift. Any member of staff who attends work under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or whose performance appears to be impaired by substance use, will be removed from duty immediately. Such incidents will be dealt with in accordance with the nursery's disciplinary procedures and may be considered gross misconduct. Parents and Carers The nursery has a duty to safeguard all children. If a parent or carer arrives to collect a child and staff believe they may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the manager will assess the situation and take appropriate action to ensure the child's safety. Where possible, an alternative authorised adult may be asked to collect the child. If staff believe a child may be placed at risk, the nursery will follow its safeguarding procedures and may seek advice from Children's Services, the police, or other relevant agencies. All concerns will be recorded and managed in accordance with the nursery's safeguarding and child protection procedures. Monitoring and Review The nursery reserves the right to investigate concerns regarding alcohol, drug, or medication use where these may affect the safety and wellbeing of children. All matters will be handled fairly, confidentially, and in accordance with relevant employment and safeguarding procedures.
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