The festive break is over, and as children return to school or activity settings, there's no better time to conduct a safeguarding audit. This 'tick box' exercise ensures your organisation starts 2026 with robust protection measures in place.
Why a Post-Christmas Audit Matters
During the festive period, staff changes occur, documents expire, and contact details shift. A thorough audit identifies gaps before they become risks, ensuring every child returns to a safe, compliant environment.
Your New Year Safeguarding Audit Checklist
1. DBS Check Review
- Expired checks: Review all staff DBS certificates and identify any that expired during December
- New starters: Verify that all Christmas temporary staff have appropriate clearance
- Update Service: Confirm staff are registered and conduct status checks
- Action required: Schedule renewals immediately for expired checks
2. Staff Changes & Availability
- Departures: Remove access for staff who left during the break
- New appointments: Ensure all pre-employment checks are complete
- Returning staff: Confirm all staff are fit to return and declarations are current
- Contact updates: Verify emergency contact details haven't changed
3. Documentation Currency
- Policies: Check all safeguarding policies reflect current guidance
- Risk assessments: Review and update for spring term activities
- Training records: Identify staff requiring refresher training
- Insurance: Confirm all relevant insurance policies are current
4. Premises & Equipment Safety
- Building checks: Conduct walk-throughs after the closure period
- Fire safety: Test alarms and check emergency exits
- First aid: Replenish supplies and check expiry dates
- IT systems: Verify safeguarding software and reporting systems are operational
5. Vulnerable Children Review
- Welfare checks: Identify children who may need additional support post-holiday
- Case updates: Review any incidents or concerns raised during the break
- Multi-agency communication: Reconnect with social services about ongoing cases
- Transition planning: Prepare support for children experiencing family changes
6. Communication Systems
- Emergency contacts: Test all emergency contact numbers
- Parent communication: Ensure contact databases are current
- Staff briefings: Schedule immediate team meetings to refresh safeguarding awareness
- Reporting channels: Verify all safeguarding reporting routes are functioning
DSL-Specific Actions
For Designated Safeguarding Leads returning from the break:
- Review the safeguarding inbox for any holiday period concerns
- Check voicemail and email for urgent messages
- Prepare briefing notes for staff on any incidents during the break
- Schedule supervision sessions with deputies
- Review caseload and prioritise immediate actions
- Confirm availability of external support services
Creating Your Audit Schedule
Day 1-2: Premises safety, IT systems, and immediate staff checks
Day 3-4: Documentation review and DBS verification
Day 5: Vulnerable children review and multi-agency contact
Week 2: Staff briefings and training needs assessment
Day 3-4: Documentation review and DBS verification
Day 5: Vulnerable children review and multi-agency contact
Week 2: Staff briefings and training needs assessment
Using Technology to Streamline Audits
Digital safeguarding platforms like ours can transform your audit process:
- Real-time dashboard showing all staff compliance status
- Automatic alerts for expiring documents
- Centralised record keeping accessible from any device
- Instant verification of DBS and qualification status
- Audit trail for accountability and Ofsted readiness
Common Audit Findings
Typical issues discovered in January audits include:
- DBS checks that expired beyond your recommended guidelines in December
- Outdated contact details following house moves
- Missing training records for temporary Christmas staff
- Expired first aid or safeguarding certificates
- Incomplete volunteer vetting from festive events
Taking Action on Audit Results
Once your audit is complete:
- Prioritise risks: Address immediate safeguarding gaps first
- Create action plans: Assign responsibilities with clear deadlines
- Communicate findings: Brief senior leadership and governors
- Schedule follow-ups: Set review dates to verify completion
- Document everything: Maintain clear records for inspection readiness
Conclusion
A thorough New Year safeguarding audit isn't just about compliance—it's about ensuring every child returns to an environment where their safety is paramount. By systematically reviewing all safeguarding elements, you create confidence amongst staff, parents, and most importantly, you protect the children in your care.
Start 2026 with certainty that your safeguarding foundations are solid, your team is prepared, and your systems are robust.
Ready to streamline your safeguarding audits? Discover how Safeguard-Me's digital passport system provides real-time compliance visibility, making audits faster and more thorough.