1.2 Safeguarding Law and Guidance in Early Years Practice

Safeguarding in early years is underpinned by legislation, statutory guidance and clear responsibilities in daily practice. This lesson explains why the child’s welfare is paramount and how practitioners should work with parents unless doing so would increase risk. It introduces the Children Act 1989, including Section 47 investigations where significant harm is suspected, and the Children Act 2004, which supports leadership, cooperation and information sharing between agencies. You will also explore Working Together to Safeguard Children, early help, referrals and escalating concerns. The lesson explains where Keeping Children Safe in Education may apply and highlights the importance of the Early Years Foundation Stage as a statutory safeguarding framework for providers in England. Practical responsibilities include having clear policies, appointing a trained designated safeguarding lead, completing suitability and DBS checks, training staff, recording concerns and reporting them promptly. The key message is straightforward: understand your setting’s procedures, know who the DSL is, and act without delay when a child may be at risk. Read the related CMS Vocational Training guide: https://cmsvoc.co.uk/blog/safeguardin... Chapters 00:00 Safeguarding principles and the child’s welfare 01:17 The Children Acts and multi-agency safeguarding 02:26 Early help, referrals and escalation 03:04 EYFS requirements and safeguarding responsibilities 05:01 Turning the legal framework into daily practice