Lost or Missing Child Procedure Toolbox Talk for Gyms Training and Leisure Facilities

This lost or missing child toolbox talk template is designed for gyms, swimming pools and leisure centres that supervise children, providing clear guidance for staff on how to respond when a child cannot be located.

The talk addresses the primary hazards of child separation, panic, delayed response and the potential for drowning, hypothermia or injury. It references the legal duties set out in the Children Act 1989, the Working Together to Safeguard Children (2021) guidance and the Child Protection in Sport Unit (CPSU) standards, ensuring compliance with national safeguarding requirements.

• Use this toolbox talk for: staff induction, refresher training, incident debriefs, and routine safety drills.
• Use this toolbox talk for: pool lifeguard teams, soft‑play supervisors, gym class instructors, and front‑desk reception staff.
• Use this toolbox talk for: any situation where children are present in a leisure facility, including after‑school programmes and community events.

Each section includes a concise purpose, a detailed description of what the activity entails, an explanation of why the procedures are critical, ten actionable do items, ten don’t items, and a final important reminder.

The guide also outlines how to complete incident documentation, communicate promptly with parents or guardians, and conduct a post‑incident review to improve future responses and maintain safeguarding records.

Fully editable and shareable, this template can be customised to match your brand and operational procedures.

Compliant with: Children Act 1989; Working Together to Safeguard Children (2021); Child Protection in Sport Unit (CPSU) standards.