Health and Safety Policy (Including First Aid)

At Creative Therapeutic Journeys I prioritise the safety and well-being of children, with a commitment to non-maleficence (avoiding harm) through the maintenance of a safe and healthy environment for all clients, visitors and myself as therapist. 

 I aim to comply with all relevant UK health and safety legislation.

 Risk Assessment 

I will identify hazards by regularly checking the therapy space to identify potential dangers, such as hazardous materials, electrical equipment, or unsafe play structures. I will consider the specific needs of vulnerable children, including those with disabilities, and assess how they might be affected by hazards. 

Emergency exits will be kept clear and accessible, and clients will be made aware of the route out of the room in case of emergency.  Smoke alarm batteries will be checked regularly. 

Hygiene and Infection Control 

Handwashing facilities will be available. 

Toys and play equipment will be cleaned regularly. 

Public health guidance for infection control measures (e.g. during flu season or outbreaks) will be followed as required. 

Supervision & Competence  

I will ensure children are always supervised, especially during activities using potentially dangerous items or equipment.

 Safe Play Materials & Equipment 

Parents will be asked about allergies and intolerances before Play Therapy commences, and any relevant emergency medication such as inhalers/EpiPen will be securely stored in the room while the children play.  I have received EpiPen training and will seek to refresh my understanding regularly. 

Parents will be asked to give permission for their child to play with the substances provided for messy play in the play room.

 Appropriate Tools and equipment:  

I will provide tools appropriate for a child's age and maturity and use equipment that can be easily cleaned and poses minimal risk. 

I will supervise the use of balloons, especially with children under the age of eight, and dispose of broken pieces promptly. I will ensure no small magnets are included in the kit. 

Incident Records

Any incidents will be logged securely in Fortuna and raised in Clinical Supervision if necessary. 

A basic First Aid kit will be available in the play room and is regularly checked and re-stocked.  

Parental permission will be sought regarding basic first aid such as adhesive dressings on minor wounds.  If any other first aid is deemed necessary, the session will be stopped and the parent/carer will be called back to the play room to take over duty of care. 

This policy will be reviewed annually.  Next review due 07/10/2026