I hope families always feel comfortable talking to me. If something does not feel right, please tell me so that we can try to sort it out together. You can speak to me in person, call me or email info@littleducklingschildminding.co.uk. If your complaint is about an EYFS requirement, please put it in writing so I can follow the formal process.
How I handle a written complaint
- I will confirm that I have received it, make sure I understand the concern and check whether anyone needs immediate support or protection.
- I will look into it fairly and keep a clear record in ChildLogs of what I considered, what I found and what I did.
- I will tell the person who complained about the outcome within 28 days of receiving the written complaint.
- I will keep the record securely in ChildLogs and make it available to Ofsted if asked. Parents may ask for a summary which does not identify the person who complained.
Safeguarding and regulatory concerns
If a complaint suggests that a child may be at risk, I will follow my Safeguarding Policy straight away. Concerns about an adult who lives, works or looks after children here will be passed to the LADO through Integrated Front Door and reported to Ofsted when required. I will not question people in a way that could affect an official investigation.
Taking a concern further
Laura Oldfield is registered directly with Ofsted. Little Ducklings Childminding is her trading name. Ofsted can consider concerns about registered childcare, although it cannot settle private contract disagreements. Contact Ofsted at enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk or 0300 123 4666, or read the official childcare complaints guidance. If a child may be at risk, call Integrated Front Door on 01782 235100, the out-of-hours Emergency Duty Team on 01782 234234, or 999 in an emergency.
Complaint records are kept for the time shown in my retention schedule.