New policies help us to implement our commitment to child safety

In the past few days two school principals from Western Australia and Queensland have been stood down from their roles and been arrested for child abuse material. These cases are shocking because we wonder how such people could be given power and position with children. 

And yet our screening processes can only go so far. While it is crucial to prevent those known to be unsuitable from working with children, we must acknowledge that this is only part of the solution. Our approach to child protection must be evidence based and systemic. We screen individuals, we empower children and listen to them, and we uphold a culture of safety that includes clear behavioural boundaries and transparent complaints processes. Only by such a multi pronged systemic approach can we hope to fully uphold our Statement of Commitment to Child Safety. 

The theme for this year's National Child Protection Week is 'Every Conversation Matters' because our words are an important way of setting the tone for who is believed and what behaviour is acceptable. But it is important to note that words are not enough. James Clear is known for pointing out that 'we do not rise to the level of our goals, we sink to the level of our systems'. This is consistent with the words of the book of James “faith without works is also dead.” (2:26 NRSV) our convictions are only meaningful when backed up by action. The importance of love in action is evident across the life of the Uniting Church.

The action that accompanies our love for children, young people and families is demonstrated in our consistent implementation of clear policies that are developed in line with evidence-based approaches to preventing harm. Policies can be found below:

These policies apply to all congregations, presbyteries and entities across the Synod of NSW and ACT.

Child Safe Commitment
This is a public statement setting out the Synod of NSW and ACT commitment to child safety. This is a good document to display in a prominent place.

Child Safe Policy
This policy underpins our approach to Child Safe practices across the Synod, including the implementation of the National Child Safe Standards. This policy sets out the responsibilities of various bodies, councils and individuals. This is a good document to make available to parents and families in your community.

Screening Policy (including WWCC)
This policy sets out how we screen our staff and volunteers to make sure that they are suitable and supported for the roles they undertake. It is important to make sure that we document how the screening is completed and keep the documentation securely. We have developed a simple table to help you in the Volunteer Register.

Code of Conduct
The Code of Conduct sets out the behaviour that is acceptable and not acceptable. It includes child protection issues as well as other conduct issues. The Code of Conduct applies to all ministers, staff and volunteers. For Ministers, Pastors and Lay Leaders, the Code of Conduct applies in addition to specific documents such as COEMP.

Policy for Responding to Concerns about Vulnerable People (including children)
Many of us within the church and in the wider community are ‘mandatory reporters’ or ‘mandated reporters’, meaning we have a legal responsibility to make certain notifications. Additionally, everyone has ethical responsibility to take steps to respond to situations where a child or vulnerable person may be at risk of harm. This policy sets out the Synod approach to these issues and provides you with some assistance. Additionally, you can always contact cultureofsafety@nswact.uca.org.au for advice.

Complaints Policy
This policy documents our commitment to dealing with complaints and concerns in a consistent and transparent manner. If you have a complaint or concern, there are a variety of people who can help you including Ministers, the Culture of Safety team or the Speak Out line.

One important issue is Reportable Conduct. Recently changed legal obligations require the Synod to report allegations that a staff member, Minister or volunteer has harmed a child or young person. This must happen immediately, prior to any investigation beginning, and covers allegations whether they are related to the church or not. This policy will help you, but you can always contact cultureofsafety@nswact.uca.org.au for further advice.

It is very important that all Ministers, staff and volunteers understand these policies and that church leaders ensure that the policies are implemented.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact the Culture of Safety team - cultureofsafety@nswact.uca.org.au 

'We do not rise to the level of our goals, we sink to the level of our systems'. - James Clear, Atomic Habits

"Faith without works is also dead.” (James 2:26 NRSV)

Visit the Culture of Safety Page