Food safety has always been an important issue for those who work with children because, as a vulnerable group, children can be more seriously affected by food poisoning than adults and the responsibility for their well-being is in the hands of the carer. This is why, since January 2006, registered childminders have been covered by food hygiene regulations.
On 1st January 2006 the European Commission introduced new food hygiene regulations which state that childminders should register as a food business operator with their local council. If a childminder fails to register with their local authority legal action may be taken. The legislation also says that childminders need to keep a record of the measures they take to ensure that the food they serve is safe.
The regulations apply to all child carers who regularly provide snacks or meals for the children in their care. Even if the food is provided by the parent, the carer is still subject to the regulations if it is eaten at their setting. When the regulations were first introduced the Food Standards Agency developed some guidance for child carers to help them determine whether or not they were covered by the legislation.
It is recommended that childminders and other people who work with children keep themselves up to date with food legislation. Once carers are registered with the local council the Environmental Health Department can send them up to date and comprehensive information.
We offer a Food Hygiene Awareness training course which is designed specifically for those who provide care for others and meets and exceeds Skills for Care Common Induction Standards. It is a requirement for all those who handle, store, prepare and serve food and beverages. The course teaches delegates the cost of poor food hygiene, the causes of bacteria and its growth, safe food storage, cleaning procedures and control of hazardous substances as well as further areas of food safety. It also details the legislation to give people a more in-depth knowledge of their responsibilities and legal requirements. The course is 3 hours in duration and costs £245 + VAT to train up to 12 delegates.
We can now also offer an E-learning Food safety course to provide people with guidance on the importance of food safety and hygiene. The interactive online course also discusses legislation and information about bacteria, contamination and high risk foods. E-learning Account Manager, Pete Stock, says: “These courses are perfect for people who are busy during the day as they take just thirty minutes and can be completed at a time that is convenient for you; all you need is a computer and internet access. The Food Safety course is for anyone who handles food as part of their work and is suitable for child carers.” For further information please call us today on 0800 310 2300, visit www.firstresponsetraining.com or e-mail info@firstresponsetraining.com.
