Intimate Care Policy

Intimate care involves areas of personal care, which most people normally do for themselves but some are unable to do because of age, impairment or disability.

Intimate care is an important, necessary, and essential aspect of the care I provide throughout the day. It includes nappy changing, supporting children with toileting, changing clothes, administering first aid, and providing cuddles and physical reassurance.

I am committed to providing a safe, respectful, and hygienic environment for all children that ensures they are treated with dignity, and maintains their privacy. Intimate care is always given as gently and as sensitively as possible to ensure a positive experience.

Preparation - I ensure that all necessary supplies are ready and available (nappies, wipes, changing mats etc).

During nappy changes and toileting - I explain the process to the child, including always asking permission 'Shall we change your nappy?' I make sure the child is safe and secure by changing nappies on the floor for example. Soiled nappies/underwear are removed and the skin gently cleaned, and if recorded in a child's records any necessary cream or ointment is applied. I put on a clean nappy or underwear and redress the child, or support them to redress themselves if developmentally appropriate.

Respect and dignity - I maintain the child's privacy and dignity, by ensuring the changing area is discreet or by using my body as a shield to the child, whilst balancing the needs to safeguard the other children in my care. I use positive, comforting language throughout the process and always provide reassuring cuddles when sought by a child who needs comfort, as this is essential to support their emotional development. I respect the child's personal preferences and cultural practices.

Record keeping - A parent can request me to complete their child's Tapestry care journal for all toileting. All observations relating to the child's health are shared and recorded on Tapestry regardless or not whether I would normally record all toileting care.

Safety - I am always alert to signs and symptoms of abuse and would follow my Safeguarding procedure by reporting to Children's First Response Hub, Tel 01202 123334, Email childrensfirstresponse@bcpcoouncil.gov.uk.

If your child has a special need, I will work closely with you, to obtain as much information as possible in order to make the process of intimate care as comfortable as possible. I will endeavour to take all of yours' and your child's individual concerns into account. I believe that information on intimate care should only be communicated by sealed letter, personal contact or telephone between parents/guardians and myself.

I am familiar with the normal precautions for avoiding infection and will follow good practice in hygiene.
I am happy to take part in any appropriate training.
I will allow your child to care for themselves as far as they are able to, and will promote appropriate use of toilets and associated skills.
I will always be aware of and respond to your child's reactions, and provide reassurance whenever they need it.

Eric (The Children's Bowel and Bladder Charity) has lots of useful information to support potty training Eric.org.uk