Parent responsibility
Parents and legal guardians are responsible for collecting their child at the agreed pick-up time. They must tell Little Leaps in advance if regular pick-up arrangements change or if someone else will collect their child.
Children are released only to parents, legal guardians or authorised people confirmed by parents in writing. Photo identification, passwords or agreed verification methods may be used before a child is released.
Current parent, guardian, authorised-collection and emergency-contact details must be kept up to date so the setting can contact the right people quickly if collection arrangements break down.
If a child is not collected
If a child is not collected, Little Leaps immediately attempts to contact parents or legal guardians using the information held by the setting. If they cannot be reached, emergency contacts listed on the child's registration form are contacted.
All contact attempts, including times, methods and responses, are documented. The child continues to be cared for safely and sensitively while suitable arrangements are made.
If reasonable attempts to reach parents, legal guardians and emergency contacts are unsuccessful and extended care is no longer possible, the appropriate local authority and emergency services may be contacted.
Records and follow-up
Records are kept of non-collection incidents, including contact attempts, duration of extended care and any communications with authorities. Records are kept confidentially and stored securely.
After the situation is resolved, Little Leaps discusses the incident with parents or legal guardians, addresses any concerns and reviews emergency contact information where needed.