Health and Safety Statement

For School Age Services (Ireland)

Name of Service: Blossom’s Childcare

This policy is available at all times and will be communicated to all parents, guardians and school age

children.

Our Commitment

At Blossoms, we are committed to providing a safe, healthy, and caring environment for all the

children in our care. We believe that every child has the right to feel protected, respected, and

secure at all times.

This Health and Safety Statement outlines how we maintain a safe environment for children, staff,

and visitors in compliance with Irish law and best practice guidelines.

1. Safety of the Premises

 Our premises are kept clean, well-maintained, and free from hazards.

 Daily safety checks are carried out on equipment, indoor and outdoor spaces.

 Doors, gates, and access points are secured to prevent unauthorised entry or children

leaving unsupervised.

2. Fire Safety and Emergency Procedures

 We have a full fire safety plan, including clear evacuation procedures.

 Fire drills are carried out regularly.

 Fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and alarms are maintained and inspected in line with

safety regulations.

 Staff are trained in emergency response and fire safety protocols.

3. Supervision of Children

 Children are supervised at all times by qualified and Garda-vetted staff.

 We maintain appropriate adult-to-child ratios as required by Tusla School Age Childcare

regulations.

 Attendance is recorded daily, and all arrivals and departures are monitored and signed.

Affinity Childcare Group Ltd T/A Blossoms Childcare

4. First Aid and Medical Needs

 At least one staff member trained in paediatric first aid is always on duty.

 We maintain a well-stocked and accessible first aid kit.

 Individual care plans are followed for children with medical needs or allergies.

 All incidents are recorded and communicated to parents or guardians.

5. Kitchen Facilities and Clean Drinking Water

 Our service has access to a clean, hygienic kitchen facility where snacks or meals are

prepared safely in line with HSE food safety standards.

 All surfaces, equipment, and food storage areas are cleaned and sanitised regularly.

 Fresh, clean drinking water is available to children throughout the day. Children are

encouraged to stay hydrated and may access water freely.

6. Infection Control and Hygiene

 Children and staff are supported to follow good hand hygiene practices, especially before

eating and after using the toilet.

 Toilets and handwashing facilities are clean, well-stocked, and checked regularly.

 We follow public health guidance for managing illness or infectious diseases.

7. Behaviour and Wellbeing

 We promote positive behaviour and respectful communication at all times.

 Bullying or harmful behaviour is not tolerated and will be addressed immediately.

 Staff support children in developing social skills, cooperation, and emotional wellbeing.

8. Child Protection

 We follow Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children.

 All staff receive child protection training and know how to recognise and report concerns.

 The Designated Liaison Person (DLP) manages child protection concerns in line with the

Children First Act 2015.

Affinity Childcare Group Ltd T/A Blossoms Childcare

9. Outings and Activities

 Risk assessments are completed before any outings or off-site activities.

 Parental consent is obtained in advance.

 Appropriate safety measures, such as supervision ratios and high-visibility gear, are in place

during all excursions.

10. Communication with Parents

 We maintain open and respectful communication with parents/guardians.

 Any incident, illness, or injury is shared promptly and recorded accurately.

 Our policies and procedures are provided on enrolment and available upon request.

Review and Monitoring

This Health and Safety Statement is reviewed annually, or sooner if needed (e.g., following an

incident or changes in regulation). We are committed to continuous improvement and ensuring a

safe and supportive environment for all.