SCMA has been in discussion with the Food Standards Agency (FSA) Scotland about the effect new EU legislation regarding food allergens has on childminding services registered as a food business.
Thanks to our repeated enquiries, SCMA is pleased to announce that FSA Scotland has recognised the knowledge that childminders have and has clarified the rules surrounding food allergens.
As part of our discussions, we explained that childminders are already aware and hold information about their minded children, including any allergies they may have. This makes childminders best prepared to make informed decisions about the food and snacks they provide within their service.
In all circumstances, childminders should be aware of allergens and ensure the food eaten whilst the children are in their care is safe. In addition, you should be able to explain how you record your minded children’s allergies and how you check food is free from allergens.
SCMA is delighted with this result and know that this news will be a relief for many childminders across Scotland – we’re grateful for the support of our members and for their patience.
Q. My minded children do not have any allergies; do I need to do anything?A. Provided you have checked the 14 allergens with the parents of your minded children and they have reported no known allergies, and you keep this information up-to-date, there is no need for you to do anymore.
Q. I have a minded child who is allergic to peanuts – what do I need to do?A. To ensure the child remains safe and well whilst in your care you must be aware of this allergy, take necessary steps to avoid the allergen (peanuts) and provide them with food that is safe for their consumption. You should also be able to explain the steps you take and how you ensure the food you serve is allergen-free.
Your ‘Record of Information’ form will show that you have recorded the child’s peanut allergy, as directed by the parents. Continue to take advice and guidance from the parents, and ensure you are kept up-to-date.
Q. How do I keep my information up-to-date?A. As a childminder, you must ensure that the information you hold on your minded children is accurate and updated at least every six months. It’s also vital that you maintain good communication with the children’s parents to ensure you are kept up-to-date with any changes, e.g. if any new allergies are found.
Many SCMA childminders use our
Care Plan Organiser, which was developed alongside the Care Inspectorate, to help you organise your record keeping and meet the needs of your childminding service.
Our Care Plan Organiser is currently being updated - including the Record of Information insert, which is also being extended and specifies the 14 allergens. This allows you to check and complete the form with the parents when the child first joins your service and during your six-monthly updates.
The updated Care Plan Organiser will be available from SCMA soon, so stay tuned to
childminding.org for the latest updates.
Other Useful Links:Guidance from FSA includes some suggestions that you may want to consider using, but these are not a requirement for all childminders.
SCMA’s previous Food Allergens Update Safer Food, Better Business for Childminders guidance from the FSA