Our Partners

Purpose 

This policy outlines Newcastle Youth Orchestra Inc.'s commitment to creating and maintaining a child-safe environment and the steps we take to protect children from abuse and neglect. 

 

Scope 

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, board members, and contractors involved with Newcastle Youth Orchestra Inc. 

 

Definitions 

- Child: Any person under the age of 18 years. 

- Child abuse: Includes physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as neglect and exploitation. 

 

Policy Statement 

Newcastle Youth Orchestra Inc. is committed to the safety and well-being of all children involved in our programs. We have zero tolerance for child abuse and will take all necessary steps to prevent and respond to any instances of child abuse or neglect. 

 

Procedures 

1. Recruitment and Screening 

- All staff and volunteers must undergo Working with Children Checks. 

- Reference checks will be conducted for all positions. 

- Job descriptions will clearly state our commitment to child safety. 

 

2. Training and Education 

- All staff, volunteers, and board members will receive regular training on child safety. 

- Children and families will be educated about their rights and how to report concerns. 

 

3. Risk Management 

- Regular risk assessments will be conducted to identify and mitigate potential risks to children. 

- Physical environments will be designed to promote child safety. 

 

4. Reporting Procedures 

- All staff and volunteers are mandatory reporters and must report any reasonable suspicion of child abuse. 

- Clear reporting procedures will be established and communicated to all stakeholders. 

 

5. Response to Allegations 

- All allegations will be taken seriously and investigated promptly. 

- Support will be provided to any child who has experienced abuse. 

 

6. Child Participation 

- Children will be involved in decisions that affect them and their safety. 

- Age-appropriate feedback mechanisms will be established. 

 

7. Cultural Safety 

- We will respect and promote the cultural safety of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and children from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. 

- Our programs and practices will be inclusive and respectful of diverse cultural needs. 

 

8. Supporting Children living with Disability 

- We will ensure our programs and environment are accessible and inclusive for children living with disability. 

- Staff will receive training on supporting children with diverse needs. 

 

9. Code of Conduct 

- All staff and volunteers must adhere to our Child Safe Code of Conduct. 

 

10. Policy Review 

- This policy will be reviewed annually or more frequently if required by changes in legislation or organisational practices. 

 

Responsibilities 

- Board of Directors: Ensure the policy is implemented and reviewed regularly. 

- Manager: Oversee the implementation of the policy and report to the board. 

- All Staff and Volunteers: Understand and comply with the policy and report any concerns.