We know how it is important for a parent/carer to have reliable childcare and this is a high priority in this setting. However, there will be times when it is not possible for us to care for children without compromising the health or well-being of others.
If children are unwell, then they will be better cared for in their own home. We are happy to care for children with minor coughs and colds but cannot care for children who are very unwell, infectious or running a high temperature (over 37.8 degrees) as we have to consider the well-being of all the children and staff in our setting. If a child has had a temperature of over 37.8 degrees, they need to be temperature free for 24 hours before returning to the setting. If I we contract a contagious condition this could result in you being inconvenienced at a later date. If a child has suffered with diarrhea or sickness within the last forty-eight hours, they must stay at home.
In this setting, We refer to Public Health England’s guidance ‘Health Protection In Schools And Other Childcare Facilities’ (www.gov.uk/government/publications/health-protection-in-schools-and-other-childcare-facilities) and ‘The Spotty Book – Notes on Infectious diseases in schools and nurseries’ (www.england.nhs.uk/south/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2017/09/spotty-book-1.pdf) for information on infectious diseases and incubation periods.
If a child becomes ill whilst in our care, we will make them as comfortable as possible, whilst trying our best to prevent cross-infection to the other children and staff. We will contact the parent/carer immediately and continue to care for the child until the parent/carer arrives to take their child home.
Medication can only be administered with written permission, in-line with our Medicines policy.
If we are unable to open through illness of the staff, we contact you as soon as possible and inform you of the illness and symptoms and will keep you updated about when we can reopen.
It would be appreciated if parents/carers would message and advise us if they are keeping their child at home and when they are expected to return.
If you have any concerns, we will be happy to meet and discuss them with you.
We reserve the right to raise to amend the policy to 48 hours for a temperature should management decide its needed to safeguard the children.
