Child Safety Policy

Child Safety Policy

Purpose

SHAUN PARKER & COMPANY (SP&Co) is deeply committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment for children and young people engaging with our organisation. This Child Safety Policy outlines our framework for ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all children, demonstrating compliance with relevant legislation and reflecting our commitment to the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations (National Office for Child Safe Organisations).

Scope

This policy applies to all employees, volunteers, contractors, and any other individuals associated with SP&Co who interact with children and young people up to the age of 18 as part of their role. It extends to all activities, whether onsite, online, or offsite.

Commitment to Child Safety SP&Co:

• Upholds the rights of children to feel safe, respected, and valued.
• Has zero tolerance for child abuse and neglect.
• Encourages the active participation and empowerment of children and their families.
• Respects diversity and ensures equity in policy and practice.

Legislative Context This policy aligns with:

• Child Safe Standards as outlined in NSW (and interstate) legislation.
• Mandatory reporting requirements.
• Working With Children Checks (WWCC) regulations.
• National Principles for Child Safe Organisations.

Key Principles

• Leadership and Culture: Child safety is embedded in the organisational culture through strong governance and accountability.
• Child Participation: Children are informed of their rights and encouraged to participate in decisions affecting them.
• Family Engagement: Families are actively involved in promoting child safety.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Policies respect and uphold the diverse needs of children.
• Recruitment and Training: Personnel are screened, trained, and supported to reflect child safety values.
• Risk Management: Potential risks to child safety are proactively identified and mitigated.
• Child-Focused Complaint Handling: Reporting and complaint mechanisms are accessible, child-friendly, and confidential.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Leadership Team: Ensure implementation and compliance with child safety policies.
• Child Safety Officer: Serve as a first point of contact for child safety concerns.
• Employees, Volunteers, and Contractors: Abide by the Code of Conduct, attend training, and report concerns promptly.

Code of Conduct All personnel must:

• Treat children with dignity and respect.
• Refrain from discriminatory, exploitative, or abusive behavior.
• Avoid one-on-one interactions in private spaces.
• Report breaches of conduct or safety concerns immediately.

Reporting and Responding to Concerns

• Mandatory Reporting: Any suspicion of abuse or harm must be reported to the relevant authorities without delay.
• Internal Reporting: Concerns can also be raised confidentially with the Child Safety Officer.
• Support for Children: Children disclosing harm will be supported and protected throughout the reporting process.

Recruitment Practices

• Thorough screening processes, including WWCC, are mandatory for roles involving children.
• Interviews and reference checks assess candidates’ suitability to work with children.

Training and Education

Regular training is provided to ensure all personnel understand their obligations, the signs of abuse, and how to respond appropriately.

Communication and Accessibility

Child safety policies and procedures are made publicly available and communicated to all stakeholders, including children and families.

Monitoring and Review

This policy will be reviewed annually, incorporating feedback from children, families, and staff, ensuring continuous improvement.

Breach of Policy

Any breach of this policy will result in disciplinary action, including potential termination and reporting to relevant authorities.