Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy

The Memory Nest

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1. Statement of Commitment

The Memory Nest is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We believe every child has the right to be safe, protected from harm, and treated with dignity and respect.

Although The Memory Nest acts as an introductory service and does not employ babysitters, we take reasonable steps to ensure that all babysitters registered with us are suitable to work with children.

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2. Scope of This Policy

This policy applies to:

• All babysitters registered with The Memory Nest

• Parents and guardians using our service

• Any staff, contractors, or representatives of The Memory Nest

• All children receiving care through our platform

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3. Legal Framework (UK)

This policy is guided by relevant UK legislation and guidance, including:

• Children Act 1989 and 2004

• Working Together to Safeguard Children

• Keeping Children Safe in Education

• Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006

• Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR

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4. Our Role as an Introductory Service

The Memory Nest introduces families to self-employed babysitters. We do not employ babysitters and are not responsible for supervising childcare arrangements once a booking has been agreed.

However, we take the following safeguarding measures:

• Request proof of identity

• Request references

• Request an Enhanced DBS certificate (where applicable)

• Request relevant qualifications where claimed

• Request confirmation of right to work in the UK

• Encourage safeguarding and first aid training

Final responsibility for supervising children remains with the babysitter during the booking and with parents/guardians in selecting a suitable sitter.

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5. Expectations of Babysitters

Babysitters registered with The Memory Nest are expected to:

• Prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children at all times

• Provide care appropriate to the child’s age and needs

• Never use physical punishment or humiliating treatment

• Maintain professional boundaries

• Follow parents’ instructions unless doing so would place a child at risk

• Never consume alcohol, drugs, or smoke while responsible for children

• Never leave children unsupervised unless agreed and age-appropriate

• Maintain confidentiality of family information

Babysitters must comply with all safeguarding laws and guidance applicable to self-employed childcare providers.

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6. Expectations of Parents/Guardians

Parents using The Memory Nest agree to:

• Provide accurate information about their children’s needs

• Disclose medical conditions, allergies, or behavioural considerations

• Ensure the environment is safe for childcare

• Provide emergency contact details

• Remain contactable during bookings (unless agreed otherwise)

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7. Recognising Signs of Abuse or Neglect

Abuse may be:

• Physical

• Emotional

• Sexual

• Neglect

Babysitters should remain alert to signs that a child may be at risk.

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8. Reporting Concerns

If a babysitter has concerns about a child’s safety or wellbeing:

Immediate danger:
Call 999

Non-emergency concerns:
Contact the relevant Local Authority Children’s Services / Safeguarding Team

Babysitters may also inform The Memory Nest so we can take appropriate action regarding platform use.

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9. Allegations Against Babysitters

If concerns are raised about a babysitter introduced through The Memory Nest:

• We may suspend or remove them from the platform while enquiries take place

• We may request additional information or documentation

• We may report concerns to relevant authorities where appropriate

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10. Confidentiality & Data Protection

All safeguarding information will be handled sensitively and in accordance with UK GDPR and our Privacy Policy.

Information will only be shared when necessary to protect a child or comply with legal obligations.

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11. Online & Digital Safety

Communication between families and babysitters should remain respectful and appropriate.

The Memory Nest does not monitor private communications but may take action if concerns are reported.

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12. Review of Policy

This policy will be reviewed regularly and updated as required to reflect current legislation and best practice.

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13. Contact

For safeguarding concerns relating to The Memory Nest platform, please contact:

Email: info@thememorynest.com
Business Name: The Memory Nest