ROTHERHAM SERVICE DIRECTORY

Many of the services and groups listed on this site are not registered or regulated in any way. However, a good service will welcome questions about their activities and how they ensure safety. Here is a list of things you may want to check out.

• Is the service registered with Ofsted? Ofsted now has 2 ways of registering services:
  • Compulsory registration – This is for all childcare settings regularly caring for children under 8, for example, Day Nurseries, Pre-School Playgroups, Childminders and Out of School Care.
  • Voluntary register – This is for services who choose to register and can include Nannies, Au-pairs and activity providers.
• Are the staff and any volunteers suitable? It is good practice for all staff to be checked by the Criminal Records Bureau if they come into contact with children, young people or vulnerable adults.
• Do staff have appropriate experience and are they responsive to the needs of users of their service?
• Is there a commitment to anti-discriminatory practice? How do staff ensure that users are free from bullying, shouting, racism, sexism or taunts regarding disability?
• Does the service offer regular training to staff and volunteers?
• Does the service have policies and procedures in place to protect children, young people and vulnerable adults?
• Does the service have a health and safety policy? Find out if there is a leader qualified in first aid, that there is a first aid box and that the premises have passed any relevant regulations. Is the building safe and secure? What are the fire precautions and evacuation procedures?
• How can children, young people and their parents or carers voice their concerns? Services should tell you what to do if you have any worries or complaints.
• If appropriate, you should check out routines for toileting, feeding and administering medication.
• Does the service expect the parents/carers to participate in, or be present during, the activities or delivery of the service?
• Parents and carers have a right and a responsibility to ensure that their children are safe at all times.
• If you are a parent/carer isten to your children and ask questions about their activities
• Services have a responsibility to be open and welcoming and to share information about themselves and their activities.

• Feedback about activities and services is welcomed by the service providers
• Services have a responsibility to be open and welcoming and to share information about themselves and their activities.

Disclaimer

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information provided, the Families Information Service cannot accept responsibility or liability for any errors which have occurred. It is recommended that you always check details with providers to ensure their service meets your requirements. Furthermore, the Families Information Service cannot recommend or endorse any of the providers listed.