Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements

Safeguarding: What's New

 

Safer Sleep Week (9-15 March 2026)

This is The Lullaby Trust's (TLT) national awareness campaign targeting anyone looking after a young baby. TLT raises awareness of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and the simple advice that reduces the risk of it occurring.

This Safer Sleep Week TLT will share the ‘baby necessities’, the essential items that baby needs and how to check that they’re as safe as possible.  

How can you get involved?

Visit the website for more information: Safer Sleep Week | The Lullaby Trust

 

Ofsted’s Update: Banned Dog Breeds and Domestic Childcare

Please note Ofsted’s position on banned dog breeds and domestic childcare.

Ofsted has confirmed its position regarding banned dog breeds in domestic childcare settings. Ofsted do not believe that banned breeds are compatible with childcare. This means any dog classified as a banned breed must be kept in an entirely separate area with no access to any space used by children when childcare takes place. Please be advised, Ofsted has worked with the Department for Education and the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to reach this decision.

Please refer to the updated registration guidance. This impacts childminders and childcare on domestic premises providers.

If Ofsted become aware that an existing provider has a banned breed of dog on the premises, they may need to take action to remove the risk to children. Providers already registered to provide childcare from a domestic premises where a banned breed of dog resides should contact Ofsted.

Inspectors will discuss the possible options available to providers and applicants as part of their work.

If you have any questions, please contact EYRegulatoryandSocialCare@ofsted.gov.uk

 

Useful information

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) safeguarding reforms: Summary of changes