Question 1

What level of DBS check do ABS staff hold?

Accepted Answer

, escort and supervisor working with ABS holds an Enhanced DBS check that includes the Children's Barred List. Records are reviewed annually and re-checks are run on renewal.

Question 2

When is an escort mandatory on a journey?

Accepted Answer

Escorts are required on all high-risk journeys — Child Protection Plans, Child Sexual Exploitation concerns, flight risk, and any case the commissioning Local Authority flags as sensitive.

Question 3

How quickly are safeguarding incidents reported?

Accepted Answer

Any safeguarding concern, near-miss or incident is reported in writing to the allocated social worker and team manager within 24 hours, with a follow-up call where the concern is urgent.

Question 4

Will the same driver and escort transport the same child each time?

Accepted Answer

Wherever the schedule allows, the same trusted driver and escort are assigned to a child to reduce distress and support the trusted relationship that underpins safe transport.

Question 5

How does ABS handle child data under GDPR?

Accepted Answer

Child data is held only for the duration of the commissioned work, on encrypted systems, and shared only with the commissioning Local Authority. Records are deleted on the timetable agreed at commissioning.

Question 6

How do you assure vehicle safety?

Accepted Answer

All vehicles are MOT-current, fully insured for public hire, fitted with car seats and boosters appropriate to the child's age and weight, and inspected daily before service.

Safeguarding

How ABS keeps every child safe