Missing Child Policy

July 2026

LC Policy #37

At Little Crumpets we are always alert to the possibility that children can go missing during sessions.  To minimise the risk of this happening staff will carry out periodic head counts, particularly when transporting children between locations.

If a child cannot be located, the following steps will be taken:

• All staff will be informed that the child is missing.

• Staff will conduct a thorough search of the premises and surrounding area.

• After 15 minutes the police will be informed. The manager will then contact the child’s parents or carers.

• Staff will continue to search for the child whilst waiting for the police and parents to arrive. 

• We will maintain as normal a routine as possible for the rest of the children at Little Crumpets.

• The manager will liaise with the police and the child’s parent or carer.

The incident will be recorded on KidsClubHQ. A review will be conducted regarding this and any other related incidents along with relevant policies and procedures. We will identify and implement any changes as necessary.

If the police or Social Care were involved in the incident, we will also inform Ofsted.

Useful numbers

Police: Dial 999

Social Care: 0208 583 6600 (option 2) Out of Hours 0208 583 2222

Ofsted: 0300 123 1231

This Policy will be reviewed annually and was written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2025): Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements: Safeguarding training [3.30], Organising premises for confidentiality and safeguarding [3.87], Information for Parents and Carers [3.97]