Online Safety
An Online safety policy is a legal requirement and must cover all forms of information and communication technology (ICT). This will enable adults and children to communicate and learn to use ICT safely. The procedures need to be clear, agreed
and respected by everyone including parents and staff. The policy should recognise the safety and potential risks as well the immense value of ICT. The designated
persons (Clare Acton and Lorraine Neighbour) for safeguarding is responsible for ensuring the policies are put into practice.
All providers should have a written policy on online safety even if they themselves do not use any form of communication technology.
The policy needs to include acceptable use of:
Internet, emails, storage of documents and children’s records, images, social networks, ipads and mobile phones
Internet
- ICT users must be aware of what to do should a potentially unsafe or inappropriate incident take place and we strongly advise that a log is kept of any incidents.
- Due to storing personal information and images, the Information
Commissioners Office (ico) has been notified as a requirement under the Data Protection Act 1998. 1
- Internet access by staff and children is managed and monitored using secure passwords at all times.
- Stepping Stones has up to date virus and security built into any form of technology used to access the internet (computers, phones, computer games) and that this is regularly checked.`
- Communication between all adults and children by whatever method should take place within clear and explicit professional boundaries.
Social networks
- Practitioners are asked to remain professional at all times and asked not to invite parents as friends on their social network.
- To maintain confidentiality and to protect children in our care we expect no practitioner to discuss any details about Stepping Stones Day Nursery including other staff members, children, parents or any other general information on social networking sites or outside the setting. If gross misconduct is reported this will result in instant dismissal.
- There will be no access to social networking sites within the setting.
- Any abuse reported must be recorded and dealt with immediately.