It is acknowledged that staff may occasionally need to bring children into the University for short periods, particularly during school holidays. A child for these purposes is defined as under 18 years old. 

Children brought onto campus other than for University organised and supervised activities remain the responsibility of their supervisor/ carer at all times. Staff who wish to bring children into the department must first seek approval through the below form.

WBS buildings have not been designed with children in mind. There are evident and non-evident hazards which may be of concern when children are present, including, but not restricted to: stairs and stairwells; office equipment (especially shredders, photocopiers, staplers, scissors); shelving; kitchens; hot drinks; and moveable furniture.

Children should only be brought into WBS buildings if the following conditions are observed:

1) A member of staff with responsibility for the child(ren) is asked to completed the form attached which should be forwarded to the School's Health & Safety representative before a planned visit or series of visits. It is appreciated that not all such visits can or will be planned in advance, but the form should still be completed, and the guidance below should be closely adhered to.

2) Children should be under the supervision of an adult who has control over the child(ren)'s actions at all times whilst on the premises with regard to health and safety risks, including:

- care on stairs and next to stairwells, especially those with open-sided banisters;

- small babies being kept in restraining devices (e.g. carrying seat, reins);

- children not being allowed to run in the buildings, or to climb on furniture;

- children not being allowed to use WBS electrical equipment or enter kitchens whilst on the premises if unsupervised. This applies particularly to shredders, photocopiers, kettles and hot water dispensers. Children should be encouraged to be reasonably quiet and not cause disturbance to anyone working or studying.

3) In case of emergency evacuation, it is the responsibility of adults supervising children to ensure their exit from the building.

4) Visitors or students who bring children onto the premises should be asked to read this guidance and to complete the form below (at reception if necessary) before a child is admitted. Once permission is granted, those supervising children are asked to adhere to the above guidance.