Saint Mary’s Catholic Parish Maryborough

Embracing the communities of Maryborough, Tiaro and Aramara

TO APPLY FOR A ;WORKING WITH CHILDREN BLUE CARD, PLEASE VISIT THE FOLLOWING LINK: http://www.ccypcg.qld.gov.au/employment/bluecard/applications.html

CHILD SAFETY POLICY DOCUMENT

AS UPDATED: 31/05/2008 4:25 PM

please find below our parish Child Safety policy.

++++

Relating to Legislation and obligations:

Child Related activities are regulated by Law and include the requirement that all employees and volunteers who are involved in child-related areas (that are regulated by the Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian Act 2000) hold a valid blue card.

Who needs a blue card?

A person will need a blue card if they propose to work, in a paid or voluntary capacity, or to carry on a business, in a child-related area regulated by the Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian Act 2000.

What child-related activities are regulated?

Regulated employment

Both paid employees and volunteers may need a blue card if they fall under one of the following categories:

residential facilities

school boarding houses

*schools – employees other than teachers and parents

*child care

churches, clubs and associations involving children

health, counselling and support services

private teaching, coaching or tutoring

*education programs conducted outside of schools

child accommodation services, including homestays

*religious representatives

sport and active recreation

*emergency services cadet programs, and

*school crossing supervisors

*care of children under the Child Protection Act 1999

PLEASE NOTE: IMPORTANT !!!!!

New blue card application forms

From 2 June 2008, the Commission will provide updated

application forms as a result of changes to its legislation.

These changes prevent disqualified* people from applying for a blue card

The Commission will continue to process old application forms received by 30 June 2008. The new application forms will be available on this website from 2 June on the FORMS page or by calling the Blue Card Contact Centre on 3247 5145 or 1800 113 611.

*A person is disqualified if they:

have been convicted of a disqualifying offence (including a child-related sex or pornography offence, or the murder of a child), or

are a reportable offender with current reporting obligations under the Child Protection (Offender Reporting) Act 2004, or

are subject to a child protection offender prohibition order, or

are subject to a disqualification order prohibiting them from applying for or holding a blue card.

It is an offence for a disqualified person to sign a blue card application. Penalties of up to five years imprisonment or a fine of up to $37,500 may apply.

What is a blue card?

Blue cards are issued by the Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian once it has carried out the Working with Children Check to see if a person is eligible. If a person is eligible, they are issued a positive notice and a blue card.

 What is the Working with Children Check?

A Working with Children Check is a detailed national check of a person’s criminal history, including any charges or convictions. Also considered is:

disciplinary information held by certain professional organisations for teachers, child care providers, foster carers, nurses, midwives and certain health practitioners, and

police investigation information into allegations of serious child-related sexual offences, even if no charges were laid because the child was unwilling or unable to proceed.

Saint Mary’s Catholic Parish Maryborough

embracing the communities of Maryborough, Tiaro and Aramara

Our Church: A Safe Community

A Shared Commitment

Recently, sometime in August 2007, the Archdiocese has introduced a program aimed at the protection of children, young people and vulnerable adults by working to prevent abuse. This program has been presented to the Parish Priests, Parish Team and Members of the Parish Council for its implementation.

The program is: Our Church – A Safe Community – A Shared Commitment

Each person in every Catholic Church community is asked to become involved in a new program to make our church a safe community for all by working to prevent abuse.

Our aim is to ensure that all communities and organisations within the church are safe and enriching environments for people of all ages, with special concern for children, young people and vulnerable adults.

It is asking for leadership and support within our parish in introducing this program into our church community.

Child Safety Policy Document is focused on child safety. It is a comprehensive guideline in implementing a program within the parish to achieve its objectives in both moral and legal responsibilities to provide safe environments for the children and those who may be vulnerable to the risk of harm, injury or abuse. As Jesus said: “Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs.” The church values the participation of children and young people and seek to ensure they are protected. Children and young adults should feel safe and secure in any parish activities that they are involved in. Everything has to be taken into consideration on child safety within our parish. We have this document as a reference and guide.

In a nutshell, this policy has procedures that can be adapted in order to achieve the desired goal, as follows:

1. Risk Management. Risk is anything that can cause harm or loss to a child or young person.

2. Planning for children and young people’s activities. There are a number of basic principles that must be considered when planning activities of children – including among others is ensuring children and young people are supervised appropriately and adequately by adults (depending on numbers, age of children and activity).

3. Incident and Injury Register be kept with information pertaining to the incident/injury and action taken to minimise the risk to others.

4. Legislative obligations apply to a parish when serious injury is experienced by a child and/or young person. It is expected that the parish implement procedures encompassing these requirements and meet obligations under Workplace Health and Safety.

5. Blue Card is necessary when working with children. Blue card is a national check of a person’s criminal history. TO APPLY FOR A ;WORKING WITH CHILDREN BLUE CARD, PLEASE VISIT THE FOLLOWING LINK: http://www.ccypcg.qld.gov.au/employment/bluecard/applications.html (BUT PLEASE NOTE IT IS NOW AN OFFENCE TO APPLY FOR A BLUE CARD IF ONE IS A DISQUALIFIED PERSON IN TERMS OF THE ACT. PLEASE SEE THE PARISH FOR MORE INFORMATION IF YOU ARE IN DOUBT).

6. Some of the activities of a parish may also fall under the requirement of the Child Protection Act 1999 (e.g. Outside School Hours Care).

(from the Parish Pastoral Council, Maryborough – Meeting 4^th March, 2008).

UPDATED:

MINUTES OF PASTORAL COUNCIL MEETING ON 1st April 2008

St Mary’s, Maryborough: child Safety: Clarification of this policy has been issued in parts in the newsletter. ……. we shall emphasize that parents must accompany their young children to the toilet every time.

(UPDATED:31/05/2008 4:09 PM)

Volunteer Handbook

Contents

Content Page

Introduction 3

The Volunteers Mission - The Reign of God 4

Our Catholic Values 5

Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Volunteer 6

Code of Conduct: Working with Children 7

Code of Conduct: General Provisions 8

Working with Children Check 10

Workplace Health and Safety Considerations 11

Introduction

Parishes/Agencies within the Catholic Archdiocese of Brisbane seek to promote the Reign of God.

In these endeavours, we are committed to safeguard the welfare of all people with whom we come into contact.

This responsibility is a reality all within the Church must share.

The processes and procedures outlined in this handbook provide a means for us to safeguard the needs of the vulnerable including children and young people while also enabling the Church, its Parishes/Agencies, to meet its duty of care and legal obligations to those persons who at different times may be in their care.

(Signed)

Paul Kelly

_______________________

Rev Paul William Kelly

Parish Priest. Saint Mary’s Catholic Parish Maryborough.

The Volunteer’s Mission

The Reign of God

Many organisations including Catholic institutions spend considerable time and effort developing their own, particular mission statement. These are often displayed publicly in their workplaces.

As a volunteer, the truth is that you do not have to be unduly worried if you cannot find such a mission statement. The Church does NOT have a mission.

The truth is “The Mission is the Church.”

Jesus came into our world. HE had THE Mission. Described variously as “Saving the world”, “redeeming the world”, “saving sinners”, etc. A most appropriate way to summarise Jesus’ Mission is:

“Love one another the way I love you” (John 15:12).

Such an awareness of and commitment to, ‘Mission’ is a primary reason for belonging to, and engaging in the activities of the Church.

Whatever activities of the Church as a volunteer one engages in – no matter whether the Parish/Agency is high or low profile, whether the task is communal or individual, the Mission that Christ has given to his Church is to make HIM, the revelation of GOD known – i.e., to teach people, with the help of the Holy Spirit, how to love like God.

THE CHURCH IS THE BODY OF CHRIST
(1 Corinthians 12:27)

The Church, with its many members, its many gifts and talents, is the face of Christ to a world.

Whatever you have been called to do as a member of the Church, you have been called to make Christ and the God of Love known to those you serve.

If one serves in some capacity in Church, you are not JUST volunteers: You have been called, to walk with Jesus and carry on HIS MISSION in this place.

“I chose you, you didn’t choose me.” John 15:16

THE MOTIVATION

The REIGN OF GOD is of paramount concern to our mission. IN this context, every person is precious to God and deserving of a welcoming and safe environment that each and every member of Church has a responsibility to provide.

In so doing, we recall the words of Peter, “We have given up everything and followed you” and Jesus said, “Amen, I say to you, there is no one who has given up “anything” for my sake and the sake of the Gospel who will not receive a hundred times more now in this present life …and eternal life in the age to come.” (Mark 10:29)

Our Catholic Values

In a voluntary capacity, we aim to behave at all times in a way that upholds the Values found in Catholic Social Teachings. These teachings emphasise:

· Respect for Human Dignity

· Respect for Human Life

· The Principle of Association

· The Principle of Participation

· Preferential Option for the Poor and Vulnerable

· The Principle of Solidarity

· The Principle of Stewardship

· The Principle of Subsidiarity

· Human Equality

· The Principle of Common Good

In the case of those who are vulnerable including children and young people we accept that this means they must be cared for and ministered to in an environment that is free from danger or harm.

Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Volunteer

Unlike paid staff, volunteers are not covered by awards or workplace agreements. Volunteers however do have rights, some which are enshrined in legislation and others which stem from our Catholic values.

For example, as a volunteer you have the right to:

· Work in a healthy and safe environment;

· Be reimbursed as appropriate, for out of pocked expenses incurred in your voluntary work;

· Be covered by insurance;

· Understand the nature of your role, duties and responsibilities;

· Be valued and treated as a co-worker and not just a free help;

· Be provided with orientation; formation opportunities; guidance and direction; and

· Have your suggestions and contributions acknowledged.

A volunteer also has a responsibility to the Parish/Agency to:

· Understand the purpose and philosophy of the activity before committing to it;

· Examine your motives and be sure that they match the volunteer position;

· Understand the rules and guidelines that apply;

· Be willing to train for the job and take part in ongoing formation;

· Accept support and supervision;

· Participate in planning and feedback activities;

· Be loyal to the Parish/Agency;

· Work as a team member in a reliable manner;

· Keep information confidential.

Code of Conduct: Working with Children

Volunteers working with children must ensure that they:

· At all times be committed to the safety and well being of children and young people.

· Avoid any form of over-familiarity or inappropriate language, as it may be a source of confusion and anxiety for a child

· Whenever possible, another adult is present or close by when providing volunteer ministry to an individual minor

· Avoid, whenever reasonably possible, being alone with a child or group of children in sleeping, dressing or bathing areas, and exercise prudent judgement and behaviour when another adult cannot be present.

· Familiarise oneself with the causes and signs of child abuse or neglect, the steps to be taken for the protection of children, and the procedures to follow if abuse or neglect is suspected or observed.

· Do not stay overnight in the same room as a minor unless it is impossible to avoid. In that circumstance every provision needs to be made to provide a safe environment, e.g. permission from parent or guardian is sought, appropriate openness and visibility, the presence of another adult.

· Do not supply a child with any alcohol or illegal substance.

· Spell out the behaviour you expect of children or young people. Never administer corporal punishment to a child, if the need arises, make use of verbal and written warnings.

· Report concerns and/or incidents of malpractice to the relevant authority in the Parish/Agency.

Code of Conduct: General Provisions

Integrity – Accountability – Diligence – Standards of Behaviour

A volunteer must ensure they:

· Commit to mission and values, demonstrating honesty, integrity and humanity in all that we do.

· Abide by State and Federal Laws governing the workplace.

· Develop and maintain competence by keeping skills and knowledge current, including identifying appropriate formation opportunities.

· Maintain dress standards that are in line with community standards, and consistent with the volunteer’s role and function.

· A volunteer must not disclose confidential information at any time, unless that disclosure is required under law or with the express permission of the Parish Priest and/or responsible Supervisor.

· Demonstrate responsible stewardship of resources and avoid unnecessary waste or extravagance.

· Avoid conflict of interest. Where a personal interest exists, openly disclose this interest to the Parish Priest and/or responsible Supervisor.

Interactions with People

In relation to other people, a volunteer must ensure they:

· Treat each other fairly, with courtesy and respect, valuing each person as an equal, regardless of their position within the Parish/Agency or their life situation.

· Recognise, accept and value individual differences and the contributions of each individual

· Be sensitive to and respect the unique needs and beliefs of a culturally diverse workplace, client group and/or Parish community.

Relationship – Teamwork

When working in a team, a volunteer must:

· Work in cooperation with other team members and be open to and respectful of the ideas and contributions of others.

· Commit to resolving personal or work related concerns in a timely, constructive and compassionate manner.

Compassion – Responsive

In carrying out the role of a volunteer, the person needs to:

· Be sensitive, caring, accepting and responsive to those in need of our assistance.

· Guard against creating a situation where others are totally dependent on them. Where possible, seek to empower individuals to achieve maximum autonomy and self determination. Let people do what they are able to do for themselves.

Employee Fidelity

It is the responsibility of all Volunteers to be familiar with and comply with this Code of Conduct and appropriate Parish/Agency policies and procedures.

Working with Children Check – Positive Notice Blue Card

The Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian Act 2000 requires the development and implementation of a annual risk management strategy that takes into account screening requirements for volunteers and paid staff including those who:

· Have begun employment pending outcome of a Positive Notice, Blue Card

· Hold a Positive Notice, Blue Card

· Are not required to hold a Positive Notice Blue Card

· Are having a Positive Notice, Blue Card reassessed.

The working with children check, or better known as the Blue Card, is a national check of a person’s criminal history. Disciplinary information held by certain professional organisations or information from police investigations into allegations of serious child related sexual offences will also be considered.

TO APPLY FOR A ;WORKING WITH CHILDREN BLUE CARD, PLEASE VISIT THE FOLLOWING LINK: http://www.ccypcg.qld.gov.au/employment/bluecard/applications.html. (BUT PLEASE NOTE IT IS NOW AN OFFENCE TO APPLY FOR A BLUE CARD IF ONE IS A DISQUALIFIED PERSON IN TERMS OF THE ACT. PLEASE SEE THE PARISH FOR MORE INFORMATION IF YOU ARE IN DOUBT).

The Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian Act 2000 proscribes child related regulated employment categories in which the working with children check is mandatory. Where a person submits an application and it is approved, a positive notice (letter), a Blue Card will be issued. If an application is refused a negative notice is issued, prohibiting the person from working in regulated employment categories as defined by the Act.

The work and activities undertaken with children and young people either in a paid or voluntary capacity is governed by this legislative requirement. Therefore, staff and volunteers working with children and young people must apply for and obtain a Blue Card. It is the responsibility of the staff member and/or volunteers to ensure that their Blue Card is maintained and current. As part of the Parish/Agency risk management strategy, a Blue Card Register is kept and maintained by the Parish/Agency.

Exemptions

There are some exemptions under the Act. These include:

· Children under 18 years of age who are volunteers (except students required to work in regulated employment as part of their studies)

· Parents volunteering their services at the school that their child/children attends so long as the child is under 18 years of age.

· Parents volunteering their services or conducting activities through a church, club or association where their child/children is involved in the same or similar activity.

Volunteers

Consistent with legislative obligation a volunteer must hold a Blue Card before they can begin working with children and young people, regardless of how often they come into contact with them.

Workplace Health and Safety Considerations

Obligations of Volunteers

S36 of the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1995, places obligations on volunteers at a workplace to undertake the following:

· To comply with the instructions given for workplace health and safety at the workplace by the employer,

· To use personal protective equipment if the equipment is provided for by the employer and the volunteer is properly instructed in its use,

· Not to wilfully or recklessly interfere with or misuse anything provided for workplace health and safety at the workplace,

· Not to wilfully place at risk the workplace health and safety of any person at the workplace, and

· Not to wilfully injure him or herself.

Health and Hygiene

Hand washing is the one of the most important aspects of infection control. Some duties are undertaken by volunteers where infection control must be practised, these include:

· Food preparation and handling

· Cleaning of food preparation areas

· Cleaning of food storage areas

· Manual handling of people

· Toilet hygiene

· General duties involving people

Correct hand washing is a duty of volunteers at every workplace. Soap bars and cotton hand towels are not considered adequate infection control when hand washing. Soap bars and cotton hand towels are unsatisfactory as they can hold bacteria that can be transmitted to others.

Recommended methods for hand washing include:

· Use of liquid soap from a container fitted with the appropriate dispenser;

· Wet hands and apply an adequate amount of the liquid soap, clean the hands with the liquid soap for 10 seconds before rinsing the hands clean with running water for 20 seconds;

· Use paper hand towel, to dry hands;

· Dispose of the used paper towel in a paper waste bucket.

Universal Precautions

Any volunteer coming in contact with blood and bodily wastes should assume are a potential source of infection.

Management of Blood or Bodily Substances

· Spill kits should be provided that include disposable gloves, cleaning agents, paper towels and a leak proof bag;

· Disposable latex or vinyl gloves must be worn at all times when treating an injured or ill person or when handling blood or body wastes or spillages;

· Use paper towels to clean up bulk of spill;

· Dispose of all contaminated materials in a leak proof, sealed waste bag;

· Wash and disinfect the contaminated area;

· Wash mops, buckets etc with warm water and detergent, put these out in an open ventilated area to dry and store when completely dry;

· Wash hands after all procedures and cleaning up is completed.

Waste Management

Contaminated waste should be placed in a leak proof bag or container and seal it. Be careful not to over fill the bag. Small amounts of first aid waste may be placed in the usual garbage receptacle making sure that it is well out of reach of children or animals that may disturb the contents.

Large amounts of waste should be placed in yellow coloured bags displaying the international biohazard sign (available from medical suppliers) and collected by a commercial contractor who deals with medical waste.

Sharps

Sharps containers must be provided for the safe disposal of sharps/needles and scalpel blades. Needle stick injuries are a major cause of Hepatitis B, C and HIV. Needles should not be bent, broken or reshealthed. Precautions must be taken in every instance where sharps are involved.

Personal Protective Equipment

· Personal Protective Equipment (e.g. gloves, face masks, sun screen) is to be used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions,

· Personal protective equipment needs to be checked before being used

· The personal protective equipment needs to fit correctly

· Volunteers need to be trained in the piece of personal protective equipments use.

Fire Safety

Volunteers working regularly in/near the Parish complex need to be familiar with associated fire safety procedures.

A plan of action to be taken in the event of a fire must be maintained by a Parish/Agency. The plan must include the location of the assembly area, fire extinguishers and blankets.

When a fire alarm sounds or a fire is detected in a building:

· All persons are to immediately evacuate the building by the nearest approved FIRE EXIT and go to the nominated Assembly Area. Refer to the local Evacuation Floor Plan.

· Telephone or tell another person to immediately telephone the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service on 000.

Fire Extinguishers

· Remove the fire extinguisher from the wall cradle

· Place the fire extinguisher on the floor and remove/pull the safety pin

· Hold the hose facing the fire

· Give a short test burst of the fire extinguisher to ensure that it is working correctly

· Approach the fire and operate the fire extinguisher using the sweeping action at the flames.

· Stay between the doorway and the fire to allow quick egress in the instance that the fire suddenly erupts or cannot be extinguished with the fire extinguisher

· Do not get to close to the fire

· Continue using the extinguisher until the fire is extinguished.

· The fire service will attend in response to the initial call and inspect the fire scene before the all clear can be given that the fire is completely extinguished.

After a fire extinguisher has been used it is not to be put back in wall cradle. It is to be labelled as “used/empty” and it is to be refilled by a certified fire fighting service/company as soon as possible.

Workplace Incident, Illness and Injury Reporting

Under Workplace Health and Safety Regulation 1997, a workplace injury, serious bodily injury, work caused illness and dangerous event must be recorded and reported.

In the event a person sustains a serious bodily injury, injury, work caused illness or a dangerous event occurs, the incident must be reported to the Parish/Agency.

Hazard Reporting

Hazards are those things or circumstances that will cause or will be likely to cause, serious bodily injury or injury to a person or to create a dangerous situation.

A worker or volunteer at the workplace can determine what is a hazard and that worker/volunteer must then initiate action to eliminate or control that hazard by reporting the matter to a person in authority at the workplace. Depending on what the hazard is, it may not be able to be eliminated and in such a case action must be taken to implement control measures and if necessary, restrict access to the area where the hazard is located.

If a hazard is detected, report the matter to the Parish/Agency. You must advise them of the seriousness of the hazard and the need for immediate attention.

Complete a Hazard Report Form and submit this form to the person who will be responsible for initiating or taking action to eliminate or control that hazard.

Ensure hazards are reported once identified. Failure to report and ensure action is taken creates neglect and could lead to a serious bodily injury or illness.

Please refer to Archdiocesan Workplace Health and Safety Manual for further information and forms.

PARISH GUIDE TO A

CHILD SAFE ENVIRONMENT

5/04/2008 11:36:00 PM

INTRODUCTION

Name of Parish:__________________________________________

This guide, as appropriate, is acknowledged as a framework for the conduct of children’s activities in a safe manner.

Review of Content
Reviewed By	Reviewed On	Comments

Parish Priest or his delegate (eg Youth Ministry Coordinator)

For more information contact HR Consultant Risk Management, HR Advisors Office Ph: 3336 9227
CONTENTS PAGE

(A) Our assessment of how various factors have the potential to impact on

children in our care.

For example:

I. Using a private home 4

II. Inviting a guest speaker 4

III. Program content 4

IV. Facilitating activities 5

V. Transporting children 5

VI. Food Preparation (including Barbecues) 6

(B)

I. A completed Risk Assessment for Parish activities. 9

· Sacramental Preparation Programmes 10

· Associated with Liturgical Events (including Mass) 10

· Social Gathering 10

· Youth Group Activities (On-site) 11

· Youth Group Activities (Off site) 11

II. Overall Risk Register and Treatment Plan 12

(C) Useful Forms

I. Volunteer Application 14

II. Registration Form 16

III. Use of Private Vehicle 18

IV. Checklist for Accessing External Venues 19

V. Hazard Report Form 20

VI. Workplace Health and Safety Checklist 21

VII. Planning Checklist for Camps 25

Part A - Guidelines

Guidelines for Children’s Activities

I. Activities in a Private Home

The environment needs to be kept free of obstacles or risk of damage to personal property in event of accident. A check of the area being used for the activity should be checked just to move any items out of the way to prevent accidental damage.

Children should not be accessing areas of the home other then the space being used for Parish Activity and amenities.

There should be appropriate ratios of children to adults.

II. Guest Speakers

When inviting Guest speakers to children or youth activities, it is imperative that any suitability card requirements are met.

Leaders must be clear of the purpose of the speaker and the content of what the guest speaker will be presenting.

It is the responsibility of the leader to ensure that the content of the guest speaker is appropriate to the demographic of the children (including age appropriateness, language appropriateness).

Leaders are responsible in ensuring the guest speaker acts in appropriate and responsible manner in the company of the children.

III. Content of Programs

Activities need to be planned according to the needs of the children and youth in the group. Programs need to be an opportunity for young people to be inclusive in Parish life. This needs to be kept in mind when considering the content of activities and not seen as a time for “babysitting” or “gap filling”.

Activities need to be inclusive for all children in the group. This means being aware of and taking into account the cultural, religious and socio economic background of the children in the group. Activities should not exclude children based on gender, physical or intellectual abilities. Children should feel comfortable participating in the activity. Content of activities need to be age and language appropriate to the children involved.

Appropriate permission and indemnity form need to be obtained for activities involving children and youth. Form should be sent for each new activity and contain:

· Program details

· Emergency contact details

· Medical information relevant to activity

· Any risks associated with the activity.

Parents and carers are to know where their child is at all times and what activities they are participating in. They need to be fully informed to give permission for their child to participate in any activity.

Where children are being transported to other venues by private vehicle, coach, specific permission should be obtained from the parent. Permission forms should include such information as activity, time, venue and transport arrangements and be collected prior to leaving for the activity.

IV. Facilitators of Activities

· Facilitators/leaders of activities need to have the skills and ability to conduct the activity in an appropriate and responsible manner.

· Leaders should be trained or mentored where they are new to an activity.

· Leaders where required should have a first aid certificate.

· Leaders need to be clear on behaviour management guidelines of the individual parish.

· Leaders need to be mindful of their own and others workplace health and safety.

· Where a leader is experiencing difficulty or is uncomfortable facilitating an activity, this should be expressed to the coordinator or Parish Priest.

· Leaders should be presenting age appropriate and language appropriate material to children or young person.

· Leaders should be mindful of the requirements of their role and not take on additional roles that they not qualified to do (eg counselling).

V. Transport of Children

It is important if children are transported as part of a Parish activity their safety is of highest consideration and the following guidelines are adhered to:

· Drivers need to have a roadworthy and insured vehicle and a current drivers licence.

· The decision of whom should transport children should be the discretion of the coordinator.

· If a vehicle does appear unsafe or unroadworthy and may place at risk the safety of a child, the coordinator/leader should deny the use of the vehicle.

· When children and young people are being transported in a private vehicle, the supervision of that child whilst travelling in the vehicle and during rest stops lies with the driver of the vehicle.

· During long trips drivers must ensure they take appropriate rest breaks.

· Drivers should take precautions to protect themselves from situations that may give rise to an allegation inappropriate behaviour. It is recommended that there is more then one passenger in a vehicle during activities. If a group of children are being dropped home regularly it is recommended that who is dropped home last is varied among the group members.

· When travelling on public transport, leaders should not abdicate their supervision responsibilities to the driver. This should always remain with the group leader.

· When hiring transport such as taxi and coaches, there should be an appropriate ratio of adults to children for supervision and safety. Leaders should ensure the drivers acts in an appropriate manner.

VI. Guidelines For Food Preparation

Care should be taken when preparing food for group activities. Food allergies of participants must be considered when planning for food based activities. If a leader is aware of a group participant who has had an allergic reaction to a type of food in the past, this should also be considered in the planning and preparation stages.

It is important for allergy information to be obtained from a parent/caregiver of a child when registering for Parish based activities.

Key Points for Food Handlers:

· Food handlers should wash their hands before starting to prepare food and in between jobs

· Food handlers should tie back long hair whilst preparing food

· Avoid touching their nose, mouth, hair and skin during food preparation

· Not cough or sneeze directly onto food

· Use disposable tissues to blow their nose

· Not put any utensils used during the preparation or serving of food in their mouth

· Not smoke whilst preparing food.

Health of Food Handler

Where a food handler has symptoms that he/she may attribute to a food borne disease or knows is suffering from a food borne disease must:

· Report he/she may or is suffering from the disease

· Not engage in food handling activities

· If undertaking other tasks located close to food handling activities, take all practicable measures to prevent food being contaminated as a result of the condition.

High Risk Foods

· All meat, poultry and seafood (cooked and raw)

· Eggs and Egg based products

· Cream and cream based products

· Dairy products and dairy based products (eg custards, cheese, coconut milk)

· Processed fruit and vegetables (eg salad mixes and unpasteurised juices)

· Cooked rice and pasta

· Cooked beans

· Salad dressings

· Stuffing for meat and poultry

· Gravies and sauces

Prevent Cross Contamination

· Use separate cutting boards for raw and cooked food (it is useful to label or use colour boards to remember their purpose)

· Prepare raw and cooked foods in separate areas

· Wash raw fruits and vegetables thoroughly to remove soil and contaminants before cutting

· Cleaning and sanitising food preparation areas

· Storing raw meats beneath and separate to cooked meats, vegetables and fruits in refrigerator

· Always wash hands with soap and water and change gloves after carrying out different tasks

· Cover all foods to prevent contamination

· Allow dishes to air dry rather then using a tea towel that could be contaminated

· Throwing away any cracked or chipped crockery as bacteria can hide in cracks and contaminate food.

Handwashing

Food handlers should wash their hands in a separate sink to the kitchen sink. The following steps should be followed:

· Rinse hands with warm water

· Apply liquid soap so that hands are covered

· Rinse with running warm water for at least 20 seconds

· Dry with disposable paper towels or hot air dryer. Hands must not be left damp or half dry.

Hands should be washed:

· Immediately before commencing work related activity

· Immediately after using the toilet

· Immediately after using a tissue

· Before and after breaks

· Between working with different food groups eg raw meats and vegetables

· Between handling cooked and uncooked food

· After handling garbage and waste bins

· Immediately after coughing and sneezing into their hands

· After touching hair, nose, mouth or any other part of body

· After all cleaning tasks.

Sandwiches

Sandwiches usually involve a lot of handling which personal hygiene for the food handler very important. Sandwiches are often filled with potentially hazardous food and should be handled and stored appropriately.

Sandwiches should be made fresh as close to the start of the event as possible. If this is not practical, they should be keep in refrigerator. Ensure there is enough refrigerator room to store them properly.

People who are ill must not participate in sandwich making because of the food handling involved in the activity.

Barbecues

The following precautions are to ensure that food is safe at a barbecue:

· Finish preparing raw meat before leaving for the activity site. This might include slicing, marinating or skewering,

· Pack raw meat into insulated boxes with ice bricks for transportation

· Hand food with tongs or other equipment.

· Use separate equipment to handle raw and cooked foods

· Keep cooked meats and salads separate from raw meat at all times to prevent contamination

· Cover foods

· Use clean and dry utensils for serving the food – never place cooked meat back on trays that held the raw meat

· Cook chicken, sausages and hamburgers until juices run clear – steaks to preference

· Throw left over food away unless refrigeration equipment is available.

Wherever possible, single use utensils should be used and thrown away after use. These items should be kept covered until required and handled carefully to minimise any risk of contamination.

I.

Part B - RISK ASSESSMENT

Risk Management Template

CONTEXT

To provide a safe and child friendly environment where children and young people can come together to participate in Parish activities.

RISK TYPES

Environmental	Human	Equipment/Resources
Walking to venues	Group leaders	Transport
Lighting	Children’s ages and needs	Playgrounds
Venue – Halls, Carpark, Toilets, Kitchen, Rooms	Family	Camera’s
Verandas	Training	Music and craft equipment
Cleanliness	Supervision	Electrical equipment
Floor coverings	Volunteers	Cooking
Private homes		BBQ
		Content of programs

RISK CALCULATOR

	CONSEQUENCES
LIKELIHOOD		INSIGNIFICANT	MINOR	MODERATE	MAJOR	CATASTROPHIC
	ALMOST CERTAIN	HIGH	HIGH	EXTREME	EXTREME	EXTREME
	LIKELY	MODERATE	HIGH	HIGH	EXTREME	EXTREME
	POSSIBLE	LOW	MODERATE	HIGH	EXTREME	EXTREME
	UNLIKELY	LOW	LOW	MODERATE	HIGH	EXTREME
	RARE	LOW	LOW	MODERATE	HIGH	HIGH

ANALYSE THE RISKS

Context		Overall Assessment of Activity including potential risks
Activity	Potential of risks	Likelihood	Consequences	Level of Risk
Sacramental Preparation Programs In Home In Church/Parish Buildings Computers After School Religious Education Kids Club Playgroups	Environment Supervision Lighting and security Transport Computer content Internet Access Other group members Resources (craft materials) Program content and delivery Other Rooms Outside Areas Activities	Possible	Moderate	High
Liturgies Altar Servers Carrying cross Lighting and carrying candles Music Ministry Set up band Sound Equipment Over head projectors Dramas Group Children’s Liturgy	Vesting Electrical Equipment (working order, testing and tagging) Supervision Church Setting /Environment Resources Movement of children from one place to another Accessing venues Animals Visitors	Unlikely	Minor	Low
Social Gatherings BBQ's Tea and coffee Picnic Kids party/celebration	Photography Equipment (Gas, Flames, Urn, Utensils) Supervision Food Preparation and Distribution Environment Types of food (Allergies) Manual Handling Activities.	Possible	Minor	Moderate
Youth Group Activities Onsite Prayers Discussions Music Trivia Nights Games nights Scripture Lenten Program Disclosure Car wash Guest speakers 40 hr Famines	Program content Facilitators skills and abilities Supervision Equipment - Sports Equipment and chemicals Health and hygiene Other Young People Types of Food Human relations Environment – Venue Children’s behaviour	Possible	Minor	Moderate
Youth Activities Offsite Bowling Ice skating Theme Parks Bush Walking Rock Climbing Pool Parties Movies Video/pizza Nights Trivia Nights Camps Overnight stays	Program content Facilitators skills and abilities Supervision Equipment - Sports Equipment and chemicals Health and hygiene Other Young People Types of Food Human relations Environment – Venue Children’s behaviour Access Facilities Staff vs Children's Amenities Guest speakers Room sharing	Possible	Major	Extreme

Evaluate Risks

Youth Activities Offsite – Extreme

Sacramental Programs – High

Youth Activities Onsite – Moderate

Social Gatherings – Moderate.

Liturgies (including MASS) – Low

I. Overall Risk Register and Treatment Plan

Risks Registered.	Treatment Plan
Key Risks	Control Measures
Corporate Governance - Operational Guidelines Physical Environments (Parish buildings/grounds and Private dwellings) External venues Technology eg. computers Lighting and Security Transport	Workplace Health and Safety Audits of Parish Checklist for External venues Procedures and protocols for use of computers Checklist for in home environments.
Other People Guest Speakers Members of Public	Procedures for Guest speakers
Equipment Electrical Equipment BBQ's Urns and Utensils Craft materials Play Equipment Chemicals Candles	Testing and tagging of equipment Workplace health and safety check on equipment Procedure for children and use of candles
Programs Camp Program content and delivery Photography Animals Food Preparation Vesting	Procedures and checklist for camps Procedures regarding appropriate content and delivery Procedure for Vesting Procedures for food preparation and labelling/identifying possible allergy
Facilitators Recruitment Training Supervision	Blue cards Blue card registers Induction/orientation training Supervision processes Procedures regarding ratio for facilitator to children
Children Behaviour Food Supervision Accountability and Permissions Movement of children from one location to another.	Incident reporting Permission forms Roll taking Intake procedures including food allergy Protocols of behaviour Safety procedures for walking in groups

PART C - FORMS

I. SAMPLE

Name:
Address:		P/CODE
Phone:	Mobile:
Email:
Place of Worship:
Have you worked or volunteered with children/youth previously? YES/NO If yes, Please provide details:
In which area of children’s activities do you wish to volunteer?
What relevant skills, experience or qualifications do you possess that may assist you in a volunteering role with children?
What motivated you to want to volunteer with children?
Please supply details of 2 referees (Name, contact details and relationship to you)

Volunteer Application Form

Application Cont’d

Blue Card

Do you hold a current Blue Card? YES/NO

If yes, please complete the information below:

Card No:

Expiry:

If you do already have a Blue Card, please present it to Coordinator who must sight it and sign the declaration below:

I,……………………………….., the coordinator at ……………………………………, declare that I have sighted ………………………………………………………valid Blue Card on this day……./…../….. Card Expiry date: ……/……./……

Sign:…………………………………………(Volunteer Co-ordinator)

The applicant should read and sign the following:

· I have understood the nature of work I am to do with children/young people

· I have read the Policy and Procedures on Child Safety and Volunteer handbook.

· I understand that it is my duty to care for children and young people with who I come into contact.

· I know what action to take if abuse is disclosed

Signed……………………………………………..Date……………………………………...

II. SAMPLE

Registration Form

Childs Name:
Date of Birth	Grade: School:
Parent/Caregiver Full Name:
Address:
Relationship
Home Phone:	Work:		Mobile:
Email:
Emergency Contact Person:
Relationship to child		Contact Number

Emergency Details

I/We (parents/guardians names) ________________________give permission for Parish staff, leaders, volunteers and/or carers to administer basic first aid as is deemed necessary by aforementioned to (child’s name) _______________________ on my/our behalf in case of medical emergency.

Parents/Guardians Signature:______________________________

Family Physician Name:_______________________ Contact Number:__________________

Medicare Number:_________________________ Name of Private Health Fund: ___________________

Year of last tetanus immunisation: _________________________

Medical Information

Medical conditions_____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

Medication:___________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

Food or Other Allergies_________________________________________________________________

Please indicate any other information that may be helpful for us to know in caring for your child.

Indemnity

I agree for my child ___________________________ to participate in Parish activities for children and youth and that risk may arise out of such activities. Activities include but are not limited to arts, craft, communal eating, games and excursion to outside venues (e.g. bowling, cinemas).

I understand that every effort will be made by the leader to contact me or my nominated contact person in the event of any illness, accident or emergency situation involving my child. In the event, where it is impracticable to communicate with me or my nominated person, I authorise the leader to seek additional medical assistance where required. I further authorise the use of an ambulance where necessary. I accept medical costs associated with my child’s treatment.

Parent’s Name:___________________________

Sign:______________________ Date_________________

Video and/or Photography

I understand there will be times when group leaders will take video footage and/or photographs of children participating in Parish activities. Such video footage and/or photographs may be used for promotional purposes (eg Catholic Leader) or even just displayed on the Parish notice board for Parish community interest.

I give my consent to my child being photographed/videoed/recorded individually whilst participating in Parish activity.

YES NO

I give my consent to my child being photographed/videoed/recorded as part of the group whilst participating in Parish activity.

YES NO

Sign: _________________________ Date__________________

Behaviour Expectations

As a participant of Parish activities your child is expected to understand and adhere to the following guidelines:

· To always behave in a respectful manner towards leaders and other group members

· Violence and bad language of any kind will not be tolerated

· To allow others to express their faith without fear of prejudice or intimidation

· To participate fully in all gatherings, activities, events.

Should your child not adhere to these guidelines our policy is that three warnings will be given. If, after the third warning your child’s behaviour has not improved you will be contacted to come immediately and collect them. A discussion between leaders, parents and the child will take place prior to their re-admittance.

You and your child have read and understand these guidelines:

□ Yes (please tick or discuss with leader)

III. Use of Private Vehicle Declaration

Name:_________________________________

Address:_______________________________

Telephone number:_______________________ Mobile:_____________________

Drivers Licence:__________________________ Expiry Date:_________________

Vehicle Registration:______________________

Make/Year of Vehicle:_____________________

Declaration

I ________________________ (insert full name) declare that I have nominated to use my own vehicle (as stated above) for the ministry purposes associated with my position of volunteer driver at __________________________ (insert name of Parish) and for these purposes I intend to drive the vehicle in a safe and responsible manner; the vehicle is roadworthy and safe to drive; and the vehicle is also appropriately insured in an approved manner with an appropriate insurance company. I also understand that in the event of an accident in my vehicle, Care and Concern, the Parish or the Catholic Church will not be liable for associated costs and/or be held responsible for any actions that arise as a result of such an accident.

I undertake to advise you in the event of an accident; I am unable to continue driving my vehicle in a lawful and/or safe manner; my vehicle is not appropriately insured and/or registered; and/or my vehicle is unlikely to be deemed roadworthy by an appropriate certifying authority.

Signed: Date: ___/____/_____

To be filled in by Volunteer Coordinator

a) Sighted Drivers Licence: YES/NO

b) Copy of Insurance Policy: YES/NO

Name of Insurer:______________________________

Sighted by:___________________________________ Date:__________________

IV. Checklist for Accessing External Venues

Item	YES	NO	Action
Has written permission been sought by parents/caregiver
Is this a venue that has not been used before?
Has a site inspection been undertaken? If no, site inspection may be needed on arrival at venue
Is the ratio of volunteers to children sufficient?
Is there a high risk of children wandering off or getting lost at this venue?
Are there potentials areas where a person could loiter around e.g. bushes, park benches?