Our commitment to child safety

All children and young people have the right to be free from abuse and neglect and to grow and develop in environments where they are safe from harm. The best interests of a child or young person are the primary consideration for all people who care for them and make decisions on their behalf. Baptcare is committed to the safety, participation, and empowerment of all children. We have zero tolerance of child abuse, and all allegations and safety concerns will be treated very seriously and consistently with our robust policies and procedures.  Baptcare has a legal and moral obligation to act in relation to the abuse of children. We will ensure that the appropriate authorities are informed when child abuse concerns are identified. Baptcare’s policies and procedures are required to be followed by all staff and volunteers.

Baptcare is committed to preventing child abuse and identifying risks early and removing and reducing these risks. We do this through training and educating our staff, carers and volunteers on child abuse risks.

Baptcare is committed to the cultural safety of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and the cultural safety of children from culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds. Baptcare is committed to providing a safe environment for children regardless of disability, gender, culture, identity, disadvantage, or other circumstances.

Our work focuses on empowering and keeping children and young people safe. All Baptcare staff are required to complete child safety training and comply with our Code of Conduct. Baptcare is committed to the safety, participation, and empowerment of all children.

A Child Safety Officer and associated working group has been established to oversee our child safe strategies. Posters have been developed to help children and young people understand their rights and what to do if they feel unsafe.

* Every child has a right to be safe

* Baptcare is committed to child safety (people 18 years and under)

* We don’t accept any sort of mistreatment to children

* We have systems and processes to keep children safe

* We employ people who are safe to work with children

* Our staff have the skills and knowledge to keep children safe

* We listen to what children tell us and take action

* We support children to enjoy their culture

* Children have the right to be safe online, at home, at school and in the community

* We empower children to be who they want to be

* We have a strong commitment to children’s privacy

* We help all children to speak up if they have concerns

* You have the right to be safe

* Our staff and carers should support and protect you

* People around you should not do anything that scares you or feels wrong

* We listen to what you tell us

* We take action to keep you safe

* We want you to tell us how things could be better

* We support you to enjoy your culture

If you are concerned about child safety or wellbeing, contact one of these organisations in your state:

Tasmania

Strong Families, Safe Kids, Advice and Referral Line: 1800 000 123

South Australia

Child Abuse Report Line: 13 14 78
or make an online report: www.reportchildabuse.families.sa.gov.au

Victoria

Department of Families, Fairness & Housing: https://services.dffh.vic.gov.au/child-protection

After Hours Child Protection Emergency Service: 13 12 78

If anyone is concerned about a child or young person’s immediate safety, they should contact 000.