Child Protection Policy

Purpose

Growing Us Play Therapy is committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment for all children. The safety, wellbeing, and rights of children are at the heart of every interaction, and all necessary measures are taken to protect children from harm. This policy outlines the commitment to maintaining a child-safe practice and the responsibilities of those working with children.

Commitment to Child Safety

Children are valued, respected, and encouraged to participate in matters regarding their safety.

  1. Child safety is prioritised in all decisions, actions, and interactions.

  2. All children, regardless of their abilities, gender, culture, or background, are treated equitably and with respect.

  3. Bullying, harassment, and discrimination will not be tolerated.

Purpose

Prevent harm or risk of harm to children within Growing Us Play Therapy.

  1. Promote a culture of child safety.

  2. Ensure all personnel understand their legal and ethical responsibilities to protect children.

  3. Provide guidance for identifying, preventing, and responding to potential harm.

Scope

This policy applies to all personnel associated with Growing Us Play Therapy, including:

  • Employees

  • Contractors

  • Volunteers

  • Students

All personnel must agree in writing to adhere to this policy as a condition of their involvement.

Child Safe Practices

  1. Participation of Children and Families:

    • Children and families are encouraged to provide feedback and participate in decisions affecting them.

    • Age-appropriate communication is used to help children understand their rights and raise concerns.

  2. Recruitment:

    • All personnel working with children must hold a current Working with Children Check (WWCC) or equivalent.

    • Recruitment processes include reference checks and behavioural interviews focusing on child safety.

  3. Supervision and Training:

    • Ongoing supervision and training are provided to ensure all personnel are knowledgeable about child protection responsibilities.

  4. Code of Conduct:

    • All personnel are required to follow the Growing Us Play Therapy Child Safe Code of Conduct.

    • Breaches will result in disciplinary action, including potential termination of engagement.

Reporting and Responding to Concerns

  1. Mandatory Reporting:

    • All personnel are legally obligated to report suspected harm or risk of harm to children. Reports should be made to the relevant authority, such as the Child Protection Hotline or Police.

  2. Process for Reporting:

    • Any concerns or incidents must be documented and reported immediately.

    • If harm is suspected within the practice, the individual involved will be removed from duties involving children until investigations are complete.

  3. Support for Children and Families:

    • Referrals to appropriate services will be provided if necessary.

    • Ongoing support will be offered to affected children and their families.

Risk Management

Regular risk assessments are conducted to identify and mitigate risks to children’s safety, including physical, emotional, and psychological risks.

Policy Accessibility and Review

  • This policy is available to families and personnel upon request or on the Growing Us Play Therapy website.

  • The policy is reviewed every five years or earlier if legislative changes, critical incidents, or feedback indicate a need for updates.

Next Review Date: 15 November 2029