As a society, it is our responsibility to protect children and ensure their safety. This is especially true in environments such as schools, childcare facilities, sporting and recreational venues, and community organisations, where children spend a significant amount of time.
To achieve this goal, it is important for organisations to have clear and comprehensive child safe policies in place. These policies outline the steps that the organisation will take to protect children from harm, abuse, and exploitation.
Here are some key components that should be included in a child safe policy:
- Code of Conduct: A code of conduct is a set of rules that outline appropriate behavior for those who work with children. This includes staff, volunteers, and anyone else who interacts with children in the organisation.
- Screening and Training: Organisations should have a thorough screening process in place for anyone who will be working with children. This should include background checks and training on how to recognize and report suspected abuse.
- Reporting Procedures: Organisations should have clear procedures in place for reporting suspected abuse. This should include reporting to the appropriate authorities and conducting internal investigations as needed.
- Risk Management: Organisations should have a risk management plan in place to identify potential risks to children and put measures in place to mitigate those risks.
- Continuous Improvement: Child safe policies should be reviewed and updated regularly to ensure that they remain effective and reflect the changing needs of the organisation and the children it serves.
By having a comprehensive child safe policy in place, organisations can ensure that they are taking the necessary steps to protect children and create a safe and nurturing environment for them.
RGA members can access these resources to help develop their own Childsafe policies and training for their Clubs from leading industry bodies:
👉 Australian Sports Commission (SportAUS)
Become an RGA member and access the training and resources you need for your Club.
Contact us enquiries@recreationalgymnasticsaustralia.com.au
Follow updates at https://www.linkedin.com/company/recreational-gymnastics-australia/ and www.facebook.com/recreationalgymnasticsau
