NSW Government offers guidelines for children’s safety during the chagim
The Office of the Children’s Guardian in the NSW government has been working with Rabbi Mendel Kastel at Jewish House to highlight the importance of child safe practices in the lead-up to Jewish high holidays.
In a statement to the community it says:
“As leaders of your organisations and within the Jewish community, we ask that you review your child safe practices and act where needed. With the high holidays approaching, the following areas should be reviewed as a priority.
Volunteer management
- Providing new staff and volunteers with an induction that explains the organisation’s values and expectations around child safety.
- Ensure that volunteers have read and understood your Child Safe Code of Conduct that explains behavioural expectations.
- Making sure volunteers know who they need to contact if they have any concerns about child safety or the unacceptable behaviour of others.
Working with Children Check (WWCC)
- Ensuring staff working with children have a WWCC when required.
- Making sure those Checks are verified with the OCG (https://wwccemployer.ocg.nsw.gov.au/Login).
- Keeping records of workers names, WWCC numbers, expiry date and verification outcome.
Risk assessment on your facilities
It is important you conduct a risk assessment of your facilities and programmes where children will be. Some issues you could consider include:
- Are potentially secluded areas locked or clearly marked as not accessible for use?
- Are there clear sightlines in areas where activities are to be held?
- Are activities supervised by more than one adult?
Child Safe Standards
The Child Safe Standards are mandatory for all child safe organisation, including religious organisations. They provide a clear framework to help child safe organisations and young people safe from harm.
The Standards are principle-based and focused on outcomes; they are not prescriptive. This means organisations have the flexibility to implement them in ways that are meaningful, achievable, and related to their size, resources and workforce. With the right focus and effort, the Standards support the development of strong organisational cultures that keep children safe.
Resources available from OCG
The OCG offers a range of free resources and training that can help you learn about and meet your legal requirements as a child safe organisation. Find resources about the Child Safe Standards, Working with Children Check and upcoming training at https://ocg.nsw.gov.au/our-resources.
If you need assistance understanding the Child Safe Standards and your legislative obligations, you can also email Sean Kendall, Child Safe Officer, via email [email protected].
