Child Safe Policy

Crisalida is committed to being a child safe organisation that recognises, respects and promotes children’s rights. We are committed to the safety, participation and empowerment of children and believe that all children have the right to protection from abuse and exploitation, regardless of their gender, race, religious or political beliefs, age, physical or mental health, sexual orientation, family and social background and culture, economic status or criminal background. 

Valuing diversity

Crisalida values diversity and does not tolerate any discriminatory practices. We:

• Are committed to the cultural safety of Aboriginal children 

• Are committed to the cultural safety of children from culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds, 

• Provide a safe and inclusive environment for children with disability.

• Welcome same sex attracted, intersex and gender diverse children and families

Recruitment

Crisalida’s selection and recruitment policy ensures that child safety requirements are addressed through:

• Undertaking national police checks and working with children checks of all new staff and independent contractors

• Ensuring that all therapists are registered with the appropriate bodies 

• Ensuring that all therapists have adequate experience in working with children 

• Before commencing in their role, all staff and independent contractors must sign the Child Safe Code of Conduct. 

Reporting

Crisalida commits to zero tolerance of child abuse, and all allegations and safety concerns will be treated seriously and promptly. Child abuse refers to sexual abuse and grooming, physical abuse or violence, serious emotional and psychological abuse and serious neglect. In the course of therapeutic work, Crisalida therapists may become aware of a suspicion or allegation of child abuse. All therapists are mandated to report any witnessed, suspected or alleged incidents of child abuse, in line with this policy and with requirements of therapists’ registration boards. If a staff member or independent contractor becomes aware of an incident or allegation of abuse, the first responsibility is to ensure that the child or children are safe and the risks of further abuse or harm are mitigated. If the incident or allegation of abuse could involve criminal conduct, the matter must be immediately reported to Victoria Police. If there is any ongoing risk to a child or children, then the staff member or contractor should immediately call 000. It may also be appropriate to notify the Department of Health and Human Services if there is a belief that a child is in need of protection. This may involve notifications to the police or child protection. 

• All reports of child abuse will be treated as serious, whether they are made by an adult or child

• When an allegation of child abuse is received, all mandatory reporting requirements must be met 

• In maintaining records on reports of child abuse, Crisalida will maintain confidentiality and privacy for children and families in accordance with legislation. 

Any allegations against Crisalida employees or independent contractors will be reported and acted upon, as well as reported to the Commission for Children and Young People in line with the Reportable Conduct Scheme. Investigation of reports may lead to disciplinary action including dismissal, and depending on the nature of the allegation, cases may result in legal action and/or criminal investigation and prosecution. 

Code of Conduct

All Crisalida staff and independent contractors are responsible for promoting the safety and wellbeing of children and young people by agreeing and adhering to a Child Safe Code of Conduct.