Child Protection Policy
Our Chaplains have been checked, screened and are cleared to work with both children and vulnerable adults by the appropriate safeguarding authorities.
Due to the nature of our Ministry and work we have a close working relationship with each other and the wider Church that we are a part of and accountable to.
The safety and comfort of children is of paramount importance to us
Accordingly, the chaplaincy operates a strict child protection policy
GENERAL GUIDELINES
We will treat all young people with respect
Where possible we will plan activities so that there is more than one adult present
We will minimise situations where one adult is working alone with a child
We will not permit any form of bullying, physical or verbal
We will avoid inappropriate physical or verbal contact with others
We will endeavour to encourage an atmosphere where members feel free to talk about attitudes or behaviour
PROCEDURE FOLLOWING ALLEGATION OR SUSPICION OF CHILD ABUSE
ALL allegations or suspicions MUST be reported immediately and directly to the Social Work Department or Police Child Protection Unit no matter how insignificant they may seem by the person the child has confided in. That person must also notify other officials within the Church that the situation has been reported
NO investigation or questioning should be undertaken
More Info...
All staff working with children anywhere within the chaplaincy MUST:
Have an appropriate criminal records disclosure check undertaken. This is usually an Enhanced Disclosure.
Be checked to ensure that they are not on the register of persons prohibited from working with children
Undertake child protection training
More information can be obtained from and any concerns reported to the Provincial Child Protection Officer : email - shelley.harstad-smith@openepiscopalchurch.org