When assessing whether you comply with HS127

Questions we are likely to ask

• How do you make sure no one uses, or is under the influence of, alcohol or any other substance during hours of operation?
• What would you do if someone arrived at your service and was influence of alcohol or any other substance during hours of operation?

We are likely to look at, measure or count

No documentation is required, however, if you tell us you use documentation to meet this criterion we will review the content.

Maintaining a safe and professional environment for children is essential. Anyone under the influence of alcohol or other substances may have impaired judgment or behaviour, which poses risks to children’s wellbeing and disrupts the quality of care.

Doing more than the minimum can shape better outcomes for children. Here are some ideas or examples you might like to consider.

You could develop a clear policy and procedure regarding alcohol and other substances for staff, volunteers, parents, and visitors. This should be developed in partnership with parents to ensure shared understanding of staff responsibilities.

The policy could include:

• what staff should do if a parent or caregiver arrives under the influence when dropping off or collecting a child
• when it is appropriate to contact the police rather than trying to stop an adult from taking a child
• steps to take if a staff member is under the influence - this is an employment matter and must follow proper procedures
• no alcohol is to be consumed on the premises while children are present
• any alcohol kept on site must be stored in a locked cupboard.