Smoking, Drinking & Drugs Policy

Policy Statement

Truly Scrumptious Nurseries are fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the health, safety, and well-being of all children, families, staff, and visitors. We do not tolerate the use or influence of illegal drugs, alcohol misuse, or smoking/vaping on or near nursery premises. Our setting is a smoke-free and substance-free environment, in line with statutory requirements and public health guidance.

Legislative Framework and Guidance

This policy is informed by, and complies with:

  • Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) 2024

  • Children Act 1989 / 2004

  • Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018, updated 2023)

  • The Misuse of Drugs Act 1971

  • Medicines Act 1968

  • Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002

  • Health Act 2006 (Smoke-Free Legislation)

  • UN Convention on the Rights of the Child

Aims of the Policy

  • To protect the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of all children in our care.

  • To maintain a safe and healthy environment, free from exposure to second-hand smoke, drugs, or alcohol.

  • To provide clear expectations to all staff, parents, carers, visitors, and contractors.

  • To ensure safe storage and use of medication in line with safeguarding guidance.

  • To respond appropriately to any concerns or breaches of this policy in line with disciplinary and safeguarding procedures.

Smoking, Vaping, and E-Cigarettes

  • Smoking including e-cigarettes and vapes is strictly prohibited in all areas of the nursery, including:

    • Indoors

    • Outdoor areas (garden, car park, entrances)

    • Adjacent areas immediately surrounding the nursery

  • Staff are not permitted to smoke during paid hours. During unpaid breaks:

    • Smoking must take place offsite and out of view of children, families, or the public.

    • Staff must remove or cover their uniform and thoroughly wash hands and face before returning.

    • Staff must ensure no residual odour is present when re-engaging with children.

  • We do not offer designated smoking breaks.

  • These procedures will be monitored by management and any breaches will be treated seriously.

Alcohol and Drug Use

  • No person under the influence of alcohol or drugs—whether staff, parent, visitor, or contractor—will be permitted to enter the premises.

  • Staff found to be under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or misusing prescription medication while on duty will be:

    • Removed from the premises immediately,

    • Referred to the nursery’s disciplinary procedures,

    • And subject to a safeguarding risk assessment.

  • If there are ongoing concerns about a staff member’s substance misuse outside working hours, we will consider the impact on their role and act in accordance with the Safeguarding and Welfare Policy.

  • No alcohol or drugs may be brought onto nursery premises under any circumstances.

Medication and Prescribed Drugs

  • Prescribed and over-the-counter medication (for staff or children) must be:

    • Securely stored in the locked medication cabinet in the office.

    • Clearly labelled with the name of the person, dosage, and expiry date.

  • It is the responsibility of the individual (or parent/carer, in the case of a child’s medication) to ensure safe and compliant storage.

  • Misuse of prescribed drugs, over-the-counter medicine, or any other legal substances (including “legal highs”) is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action.

Support and Safeguarding

  • Where there are concerns about a child’s welfare linked to drug or alcohol misuse in the home, these will be reported to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and referred to Children’s Social Care where appropriate.

  • Staff struggling with addiction or misuse are encouraged to seek support through confidential routes, including Occupational Health, GP, or local support services.

Monitoring and Review

  • This policy is reviewed annually or in response to updates in legislation or guidance.

  • Breaches of this policy by staff will be addressed through the staff disciplinary procedure.

  • Breaches by visitors or parents may result in restricted access to the setting.

Reviewed by: Brittany V – Nursery Manager – 09/06/2025

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