Code of Conduct Child Protection Policy DCCoI 2018

CODE OF CONDUCT & CHILD PROTECTION POLICY

Design & Crafts Council of Ireland EDUCATION@DCCOI.IE

CODE OF CONDUCT & CHILD PROTECTION POLICY Children and Vulnerable Persons Protection Policy Statement The Design & Crafts Council of Ireland (DCCoI) is committed to ensuring that all children and vulnerable persons who take part in DCCoI organised activities are provided with a safe environment in which to work, learn, experiment and play. The safety and welfare of the child/vulnerable person is paramount. All activities are participant centred and take the individuals needs and abilities into account. This means being age appropriate, as well as providing inclusive learning opportunities. We will adhere to the recommendations of the Children First Act 2015, the Children First: National Guidance, and Tusla’s Child Safeguarding: A Guide for Policy, Procedure and Practice.

Where the terms ‘Design & Crafts Council of Ireland’ and ‘DCCoI’ are used within this document, they apply to everyone working on behalf of the ‘Design & Crafts Council of Ireland’, on projects which involve direct contact with children, young people and/or vulnerable persons. This includes DCCoI staff, volunteers and registered craft persons/designers/makers as appropriate. Anyone working with children or vulnerable adults on behalf of the DCCoI must read and be familiar with this policy. Additionally, those working off-site in other institutions, such as schools, should adhere to polices and procedures of that institutions.

The DCCoI has established procedures covering: 1. Code of conduct for working with children and vulnerable persons 2. Child Protection Policy including: 2.0 Dealing with concerns, disclosures and allegations 2.1 Reporting procedures for child protection/welfare concerns 2.2 The management of allegations of abuse or misconduct 2.3 Recruiting, selection and management of staff/contractors 2.4 Requirements for staff working with children/vulnerable persons 2.5 Appointment of a designated liaison and deputy liaison person

The Designated Liaison Person (DLP) for the DCCoI, responsible for dealing with child protection is: Fiona Byrne, Education Manager at DCCoI [fiona@dccoi.ie | 059 7796142 | 086 4186883] The deputy designated person is Susan Holland [susan@dccoi.ie | 056 7796132 | 086 0473400] This policy will be reviewed on an annual basis.

I agree that I have read and understood the DCCoI CP Policy as outlined in this document: SIGNED: ___________________

DATE: ___________________

Page 1 of 12

1. CODE OF CONDUCT FOR WORKING WITH CHILDREN AND VULNERABLE PERSONS

Child/Participant centered approach All facilitators and staff working with young people on behalf of DCCoI are required to: • Promote the general welfare, health and full development of children and young people and protect them from harm of any kind • Treat all children and young people both as individuals, and equally • Respect differences of ability, culture, religion, race and sexual orientation, and be cognisant of a child or young person’s limitations • Listen to and respect children and young people • Involve children and young people in decision-making, as appropriate and Be aware of a child or young person’s other commitments when scheduling activities, e.g. exams • Provide encouragement, support and praise regardless of ability • Where possible use appropriate language (physical and verbal) • Use age-appropriate teaching aids and materials • Create an atmosphere of trust • Respect a child or young person’s personal space o Discuss boundaries on behavior and related sanctions, as appropriate, with children and young people and their primary carers o Agree group ‘contract’ before beginning a session • Offer constructive criticism when needed • Encourage group feedback • Lead by example • Foster a fun, positive atmosphere

Good Practice This code of good practice applies to ALL staff, contractors and volunteers. You should read all sections for a full understanding of what DCCoI considers good practice:

Planning and Facilitation •

•

•

• • • • • • • •

•

Where appropriate, register each child/young person (name, address, phone, special requirements, attendance record, emergency contact). Sign participants in and out of activities – always be aware of where they are and what they are doing Be fully aware of and make primary carers, children/young people, visitors and volunteers aware of Child Protection Policy and Procedures. Display the DCCoI Safeguarding Statement where appropriate.

Plan and be sufficiently prepared, mentally and physically: when organising activities make sure there is a detailed programme that’s appropriate to the needs of all the ages in the group Where appropriate, have a plan of alternative activities in case of, for example, bad weather DCCoI has an anti-bullying policy. Encourage children and young people to report any bullying, concerns or worries and to be aware of anti-bullying policy Observe appropriate dress and behaviour Evaluate work practices on a regular basis Ensure proper supervision based on adequate ratios according to age, abilities and activities involved Maintain awareness around language and comments made. If you think that something you said may have caused offence or upset, try to address it sensitively.

Staff/volunteers/registered craftspeople should not take a child/young person alone in a car on journeys. Where the giving of lifts is unavoidable, it should be with the full consent and knowledge of parents/guardians and a senior member of staff of DCCoI Avoid taking a session on your own - there should always be at least two adults present at all times during a session.

•

Staff/volunteers/registered craftspeople should not take a child/young person alone to the to another area for example to the toilets.

•

Documenting projects: All staff working with children or vulnerable adults should read and be familiar which DCCoI Image Safe Code. This outlines appropriate photography guidelines when working with children with regards permissions, storage, sharing. If working in an off-site location such as a school DCCoI staff will familiarize themselves with photographic consent procedures the external organisation.

Management and Governance • • • • • • •

Provide training for staff, volunteers and registered craftspeople as appropriate Ensure staff/volunteers/registered craftspeople are competent to work with children/young people Report and record any incidents or accidents to primary carers and keep primary carers informed of any issues concerning their children Update and review policies and procedures regularly Ensure clear communication between registered craftsperson and organisations Have a written agreement with any external organisation that a registered craftsperson is working with Ensure Child Protection is included on the agenda of relevant management meetings

Inappropriate Behaviour •

• • •

• • •

Avoid spending excessive time alone with children/young people. Where an adult needs to meet with a child/young person alone, the door should be left open and another adult informed of the meeting Do not at anytime use or allow offensive or sexually suggestive physical or verbal language Don’t single out an individual child/young person for favouritism, criticism, ridicule/humiliation or unwelcome focus or attention There should be NO unnecessary physical contact between an adult and a young person although there are times when, for example, placing a hand on a distressed child’s/young person’s shoulder to comfort him/her could be appropriate. Physical contact should only be in response to the needs of the child and must be appropriate to the age and level of development of the child Never ever hit or physically chastise children/young people Never ever allow children to engage in dangerous behaviour Never ever socialise inappropriately with children/young people, e.g. outside structured activities.

Heath & Safety • • • • •

Do NOT leave children unattended or unsupervised Manage any dangerous materials or equipment Provide a safe environment Be aware of fire safety & accident procedures, especially when working off-site and follow accordingly Complete the appropriate risk assessments for your activity

Feedback, Reporting and Protocol for INCIDENTS & ACCIDENTS In the case that there is an accident on site that results in the injury or a staff member or member of the public contact the DCCoI Health and Safety Officer and First Aider, Nuala McGrath

086 0444107

For on-site incidents & accidents: Proper reporting and documentation is essential to ensuring that the right people are informed of issues in a timely fashion. This is crucial for the safety of the children and young people who engage in DCCoIs programmes.

Accidents are reported in our health and safety ‘General Register’ which is kept in the Human Resources Managers Office. Incidents, such as repeated bullying, outbursts of anger/aggression, will be dealt with under the DCCoI ‘Anti-Harrassment & Bullying Policy’.

In cases where DCCoI holds responsibility for the supervision of children/young people: • It must maintain an up-to-date register of the contact details of all children/young people involved in the organisation • External organisations with whom DCCoI may be delivering children’s projects must provide proof that they have public liability insurance • Well stocked first-aid boxes should be available, and their location known to staff • Availability of first aid should be in accordance with DCCoI’s Safety Statement.

• The location of accident/incident books must to made known to staff • Children and young people must be advised of risks of dangerous materials • Record details of risky equipment used and take steps to minimise risk • Organise first aid support for any off-site trips.

When recording an accident/ incident staff should record: • All details: date, time and people involved. (Information should be factual) • The nature of the concern • The Head of Education as designated person is to be informed of the accident/incident. Who will inform the CEO. • Any information shared is to be treated with the utmost confidentiality

COMPLAINTS Primary carers, children/young people, staff and registered craftspeople should be aware of DCCoI’s Complaints Procedures, as per its Customer Charter. If you have a complaint about a service we have provided please contact the DCCoI in writing immediately.

We will ensure that: • • • • • •

The complaint is recorded and an acknowledgement is sent within three working days.

A full reply will be issued within 15 working days.

Where possible the complaint is dealt with swiftly at the first line of contact.

Where a complaint cannot be resolved at this level it can be pursued with the relevant manager (whose name and function will be provided).

If we need to carry out further research this will be communicated. We will aim to complete this within 20 working days.

DCCoI is committed to a child-centred approach in our work with children and young people to that end we will: • Contact the Health Service Executive and, if deemed advisable, An Garda Síochána where there are reasonable grounds for concern • Contact the An Garda Síochána directly in an emergency • Encourage primary carers to work in partnership with us under the guidelines set out by our organisation to ensure the safety of their children • Have a designated contact person available for consultation with primary carers regarding any concern over a child or young person’s welfare.

2.

CHILD PROTECTION POLICY

What is Abuse?

Abuse of another person may be physical, sexual or emotional. Neglecting someone is also a form of abuse. Abuse may be actual or threatened: threatening to hit someone is abusive, so is actually hitting them. All children have the right to protection from violent, threatening or degrading behaviour. Each child should be treated as an individual and should be encouraged to express their own needs and wishes. All children should be valued equally regardless of age, gender, race or ability. Children’s complaints and concerns will be taken seriously and dealt with accordingly.

2.0

Dealing with concerns, disclosures and allegations

Reasonable grounds for concern: • A child may tell you • Someone else may tell you they witnessed abuse • Someone else may make an admission or indication of an alleged abuse • You may notice: physical injury/child’s behaviour/obvious and prolonged signs of neglect • You might witness and event or incident Check out your concerns • With the child • With the DCCoI DLP • With the parent/primary carer* * It is advisable that the DLP check a reported concern with a parent/primary carer, but only if the DP is certain that consulting with a parent/ primary carer will not put the child at further risk)

Appropriate action when a concern is raised If you have reasonable grounds for concern as outlined above:

DO: o o o o o o

2.1

Stay calm Listen rather than question Give the person time to say what they want Reassure them without making promises, and take what they say seriously Record accurately in writing what has been said as soon as possible Contact the DCCoI DLP immediately

DO NOT: o o o o o o

Panic or overreact Promise to keep secrets Investigate Make the child repeat the story unnecessarily or question/interrogate Try to deal with the problem of sexual abuse alone Confront the person being accused of the abuse

Procedure for Recording Incidents Relating to a Disclosure or Reasonable Grounds for Concern

If you have cause for concern and think you might need to file a report contact the DCCoI DLP immediately. They will help you assess your concern and decide if a report needs to be filed with TUSLA. If the DLP is unsure about an incident they can contact the duty social worker to clarify the issue and seek advice. If the DLP decides that there are no grounds to file a report and you do not agree, you are still entitled to make your own report to TUSLA. If the DLP decides that there are grounds to make a report to TUSLA then you and the DLP will fill out a Standard Report Form together. This form can be downloaded from: http://www.tusla.ie/uploads/content/Chidlren_First_SRF.pdf Reports should be detailed and factual. They should use quotes where possible and avoid any interpretation of what has been reported.

Once a report has been filed you will receive an acknowledgement of the report. When the report has been assessed by TUSLA you will also receive information on the outcome of the report.

Policy Statement on the Involvement of Primary Carers We are committed to open communication with all primary carers, we undertake to: • • • • • • • • •

Advise primary carers of our Child Protection Policy Inform primary carers and schools of all activities and potential activities Issue contact/consent forms as necessary Comply with health and safety practices Operate child-centred policies in accordance with best practice Adhere to our recruitment guidelines Ensure as far as possible that the activities are age appropriate Encourage and facilitate the involvement of parent(s), carer(s) or responsible adult(s) where appropriate.

2.2

DCCoI Procedures for dealing with an allegation against Staff/ Registered Craftspeople

The priority is to ensure that no child or young person is exposed to unnecessary risk. Two separate procedures must be followed: In respect of the child/young person, the DCCoI DLP will:

In respect of the person against whom the allegation is made, the DCCoI Management will:

•

Consider the concern

•

Ensure initial safeguarding measures

•

Assess if there are reasonable grounds for a report

•

Inform DCCoI CEO Consult with TUSLA/An Garda Síochána

•

Inform parents/guardian if a report is being filled with TUSLA

•

Inform the worker and record their response

•

Make report

•

Update the parents/guardian

•

Await feedback from TUSLA on outcome of report

•

Additional Safeguarding measures if required

•

Follow employment contract & organisational procedures The CEO will advise the worker and follow the agreed actions

•

2.3

Procedure for the employment of Staff and Contractors working with children and vulnerable persons

DCCoI do their up most to ensure all that work for them, either as staff or those under contract met strict conditions of employment for working with children and vulnerable persons.

Recruitment and Selection Policy Statement We will ensure that staff are carefully selected, trained and supervised to provide a safe environment for all children and young people, via the following principles: • • • •

Roles and responsibilities will be clearly defined for every job Opportunities will be advertised as widely as possible We will endeavour to select the most suitable personnel Candidates will be asked to sign a declaration form stating that they have read, understand and agree to abide by the DCCoI Code of Conduct and Child Protection Policies.

• • • •

•

At least two written references – recent, relevant, independent and verbally confirmed will be required Registered craftspeople will be selected by a panel of at least two experts, where appropriate, through an interview process No person deemed to constitute a risk will be selected and Garda Vetting clearances are required for all staff working with children or vulnerable persons.

Exclusions would include: o Any child-related convictions o Refusal to sign the application and declaration forms o Insufficient documentary evidence of identification o Concealment of information on one’s suitability to work with children Where appropriate, there will be a probationary period applicable

Staff/ Registered Craftspeople Management Policy Statement Training and requirements for staff working with children/vulnerable persons.

To protect both staff (paid and voluntary), registered craftspeople and children/young people, we undertake that all who have direct contact with children will: • • • • •

2.4

Be aware of DCCoI’s code of conduct and the designated persons who deal with issues of concern Be expected to have read and agreed to abide by DCCoI’s Child Protection Policy and Procedures Be provided with child protection training Undergo a probationary or trial period where appropriate Receive an adequate level of supervision, support and review of their work practices

Appointment of a designated liaison and deputy liaison person

The DCCoI will ensure the appointment of a Designated Liaison Person (DLP) and deputy DLP. All staff/contractors working with children/vulnerable persons will be made aware of these persons and their contact details. Training for DLPs will be provided as required. DLPs will be named and contact details provided in the DCCoI Child Protection Policy and Safe Guarding Statement.

Confidentiality Statement We in the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland are committed to ensuring peoples’ rights to confidentiality. In relation to child protection: • Total confidentiality cannot be guaranteed where the best interests of the child or young person are concerned • Information will only be forwarded on a ‘need to know’ basis in order to safeguard the child/young person • Staff/volunteers/registered craftspeople must inform the DCCoI DLP if allegations are made.

• Primary carers, children and young people have a right to know if personal information is being shared and/or a report is being made toTUSLA, unless doing so could put the individual at further risk • Procedures are in place in relation to DCCoI use of images of children/young people • Procedures are in place for the safe and secure recording and storing of information in line with data protection

Designated Liaison Person (DLP) Fiona Byrne has been designated as the person to contact if you have an issue or concern about any aspect of a child’s or young persons safety and welfare. It is the responsibility of this person to support and advise staff about policy and procedures in relation to child protection and to ensure that procedures are followed. It is also the responsibility of the designated person to liaise with the Health Services Executive or Gardaí where appropriate.

Role:

• • • • • •

Provide information and advice Receive and consider child protection concerns Consult with TUSLA and duty social work Make a formal referral if required Maintain confidential records Inform parents/carers if it is safe to do so

Fiona Byrne can be phoned at DCCoI on 056 7796142 or 086 4186883 A full list of key contacts can be found on the next page.

KEY CONTACTS NAME

ORG.

Fiona Byrne

DCCoI DLP; Education Manager Susan Holland DCCoI Deputy DLP, Exhibitions & Programmes Curator, National Design & Craft Gallery Charney Weitzman TUSLA; Children First Info & Advice Officer

Duty Social Worker TUSLA; Duty Social Worker Garda Síochána

District HQ

ADDRESS

NUMBER

Castle Yard, Kilkenny

056 7796142 086 4186883

Castle Yard, Kilkenny

056 7796132 086 0473400

Top Floor, Primary Care Unit, St. Lomans Campus, Springfield, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath Yellow House, Wester Rd., Clonmel, Tipperary Stephens Street

044 9395510 086 8157030

052 6177302

056 7775000 Emergency Services: 112

John Tynan Nuala McGrath

Head of Education, Castle Yard, DCCoI Kilkenny

056 7777011

Health and Safety Office and First Aider, DCCoI

056 7796133

Castle Yard, Kilkenny

087 7651625

086 0444107

CODE OF CONDUCT & CHILD PROTECTION POLICY Children and Vulnerable Persons Protection Policy Statement The Design & Crafts Council of Ireland (DCCoI) is committed to ensuring that all children and vulnerable persons who take part in DCCoI organised activities are provided with a safe environment in which to work, learn, experiment and play. The safety and welfare of the child/vulnerable person is paramount. All activities are participant centred and take the individuals needs and abilities into account. This means being age appropriate, as well as providing inclusive learning opportunities. We will adhere to the recommendations of the Children First Act 2015, the Children First: National Guidance, and Tusla’s Child Safeguarding: A Guide for Policy, Procedure and Practice.

Where the terms ‘Design & Crafts Council of Ireland’ and ‘DCCoI’ are used within this document, they apply to everyone working on behalf of the ‘Design & Crafts Council of Ireland’, on projects which involve direct contact with children, young people and/or vulnerable persons. This includes DCCoI staff, volunteers and registered craft persons/designers/makers as appropriate. Anyone working with children or vulnerable adults on behalf of the DCCoI must read and be familiar with this policy. Additionally, those working off-site in other institutions, such as schools, should adhere to polices and procedures of that institutions.

The DCCoI has established procedures covering: 1. Code of conduct for working with children and vulnerable persons 2. Child Protection Policy including: 2.0 Dealing with concerns, disclosures and allegations 2.1 Reporting procedures for child protection/welfare concerns 2.2 The management of allegations of abuse or misconduct 2.3 Recruiting, selection and management of staff/contractors 2.4 Requirements for staff working with children/vulnerable persons 2.5 Appointment of a designated liaison and deputy liaison person

The Designated Liaison Person (DLP) for the DCCoI, responsible for dealing with child protection is: Fiona Byrne, Education Manager at DCCoI [fiona@dccoi.ie | 059 7796142 | 086 4186883] The deputy designated person is Susan Holland [susan@dccoi.ie | 056 7796132 | 086 0473400] This policy will be reviewed on an annual basis.

I agree that I have read and understood the DCCoI CP Policy as outlined in this document: SIGNED: ___________________

DATE: ___________________

Page 1 of 12

1. CODE OF CONDUCT FOR WORKING WITH CHILDREN AND VULNERABLE PERSONS

Child/Participant centered approach All facilitators and staff working with young people on behalf of DCCoI are required to: • Promote the general welfare, health and full development of children and young people and protect them from harm of any kind • Treat all children and young people both as individuals, and equally • Respect differences of ability, culture, religion, race and sexual orientation, and be cognisant of a child or young person’s limitations • Listen to and respect children and young people • Involve children and young people in decision-making, as appropriate and Be aware of a child or young person’s other commitments when scheduling activities, e.g. exams • Provide encouragement, support and praise regardless of ability • Where possible use appropriate language (physical and verbal) • Use age-appropriate teaching aids and materials • Create an atmosphere of trust • Respect a child or young person’s personal space o Discuss boundaries on behavior and related sanctions, as appropriate, with children and young people and their primary carers o Agree group ‘contract’ before beginning a session • Offer constructive criticism when needed • Encourage group feedback • Lead by example • Foster a fun, positive atmosphere

Good Practice This code of good practice applies to ALL staff, contractors and volunteers. You should read all sections for a full understanding of what DCCoI considers good practice:

Planning and Facilitation •

•

•

• • • • • • • •

•

Where appropriate, register each child/young person (name, address, phone, special requirements, attendance record, emergency contact). Sign participants in and out of activities – always be aware of where they are and what they are doing Be fully aware of and make primary carers, children/young people, visitors and volunteers aware of Child Protection Policy and Procedures. Display the DCCoI Safeguarding Statement where appropriate.

Plan and be sufficiently prepared, mentally and physically: when organising activities make sure there is a detailed programme that’s appropriate to the needs of all the ages in the group Where appropriate, have a plan of alternative activities in case of, for example, bad weather DCCoI has an anti-bullying policy. Encourage children and young people to report any bullying, concerns or worries and to be aware of anti-bullying policy Observe appropriate dress and behaviour Evaluate work practices on a regular basis Ensure proper supervision based on adequate ratios according to age, abilities and activities involved Maintain awareness around language and comments made. If you think that something you said may have caused offence or upset, try to address it sensitively.

Staff/volunteers/registered craftspeople should not take a child/young person alone in a car on journeys. Where the giving of lifts is unavoidable, it should be with the full consent and knowledge of parents/guardians and a senior member of staff of DCCoI Avoid taking a session on your own - there should always be at least two adults present at all times during a session.

•

Staff/volunteers/registered craftspeople should not take a child/young person alone to the to another area for example to the toilets.

•

Documenting projects: All staff working with children or vulnerable adults should read and be familiar which DCCoI Image Safe Code. This outlines appropriate photography guidelines when working with children with regards permissions, storage, sharing. If working in an off-site location such as a school DCCoI staff will familiarize themselves with photographic consent procedures the external organisation.

Management and Governance • • • • • • •

Provide training for staff, volunteers and registered craftspeople as appropriate Ensure staff/volunteers/registered craftspeople are competent to work with children/young people Report and record any incidents or accidents to primary carers and keep primary carers informed of any issues concerning their children Update and review policies and procedures regularly Ensure clear communication between registered craftsperson and organisations Have a written agreement with any external organisation that a registered craftsperson is working with Ensure Child Protection is included on the agenda of relevant management meetings

Inappropriate Behaviour •

• • •

• • •

Avoid spending excessive time alone with children/young people. Where an adult needs to meet with a child/young person alone, the door should be left open and another adult informed of the meeting Do not at anytime use or allow offensive or sexually suggestive physical or verbal language Don’t single out an individual child/young person for favouritism, criticism, ridicule/humiliation or unwelcome focus or attention There should be NO unnecessary physical contact between an adult and a young person although there are times when, for example, placing a hand on a distressed child’s/young person’s shoulder to comfort him/her could be appropriate. Physical contact should only be in response to the needs of the child and must be appropriate to the age and level of development of the child Never ever hit or physically chastise children/young people Never ever allow children to engage in dangerous behaviour Never ever socialise inappropriately with children/young people, e.g. outside structured activities.

Heath & Safety • • • • •

Do NOT leave children unattended or unsupervised Manage any dangerous materials or equipment Provide a safe environment Be aware of fire safety & accident procedures, especially when working off-site and follow accordingly Complete the appropriate risk assessments for your activity

Feedback, Reporting and Protocol for INCIDENTS & ACCIDENTS In the case that there is an accident on site that results in the injury or a staff member or member of the public contact the DCCoI Health and Safety Officer and First Aider, Nuala McGrath

086 0444107

For on-site incidents & accidents: Proper reporting and documentation is essential to ensuring that the right people are informed of issues in a timely fashion. This is crucial for the safety of the children and young people who engage in DCCoIs programmes.

Accidents are reported in our health and safety ‘General Register’ which is kept in the Human Resources Managers Office. Incidents, such as repeated bullying, outbursts of anger/aggression, will be dealt with under the DCCoI ‘Anti-Harrassment & Bullying Policy’.

In cases where DCCoI holds responsibility for the supervision of children/young people: • It must maintain an up-to-date register of the contact details of all children/young people involved in the organisation • External organisations with whom DCCoI may be delivering children’s projects must provide proof that they have public liability insurance • Well stocked first-aid boxes should be available, and their location known to staff • Availability of first aid should be in accordance with DCCoI’s Safety Statement.

• The location of accident/incident books must to made known to staff • Children and young people must be advised of risks of dangerous materials • Record details of risky equipment used and take steps to minimise risk • Organise first aid support for any off-site trips.

When recording an accident/ incident staff should record: • All details: date, time and people involved. (Information should be factual) • The nature of the concern • The Head of Education as designated person is to be informed of the accident/incident. Who will inform the CEO. • Any information shared is to be treated with the utmost confidentiality

COMPLAINTS Primary carers, children/young people, staff and registered craftspeople should be aware of DCCoI’s Complaints Procedures, as per its Customer Charter. If you have a complaint about a service we have provided please contact the DCCoI in writing immediately.

We will ensure that: • • • • • •

The complaint is recorded and an acknowledgement is sent within three working days.

A full reply will be issued within 15 working days.

Where possible the complaint is dealt with swiftly at the first line of contact.

Where a complaint cannot be resolved at this level it can be pursued with the relevant manager (whose name and function will be provided).

If we need to carry out further research this will be communicated. We will aim to complete this within 20 working days.

DCCoI is committed to a child-centred approach in our work with children and young people to that end we will: • Contact the Health Service Executive and, if deemed advisable, An Garda Síochána where there are reasonable grounds for concern • Contact the An Garda Síochána directly in an emergency • Encourage primary carers to work in partnership with us under the guidelines set out by our organisation to ensure the safety of their children • Have a designated contact person available for consultation with primary carers regarding any concern over a child or young person’s welfare.

2.

CHILD PROTECTION POLICY

What is Abuse?

Abuse of another person may be physical, sexual or emotional. Neglecting someone is also a form of abuse. Abuse may be actual or threatened: threatening to hit someone is abusive, so is actually hitting them. All children have the right to protection from violent, threatening or degrading behaviour. Each child should be treated as an individual and should be encouraged to express their own needs and wishes. All children should be valued equally regardless of age, gender, race or ability. Children’s complaints and concerns will be taken seriously and dealt with accordingly.

2.0

Dealing with concerns, disclosures and allegations

Reasonable grounds for concern: • A child may tell you • Someone else may tell you they witnessed abuse • Someone else may make an admission or indication of an alleged abuse • You may notice: physical injury/child’s behaviour/obvious and prolonged signs of neglect • You might witness and event or incident Check out your concerns • With the child • With the DCCoI DLP • With the parent/primary carer* * It is advisable that the DLP check a reported concern with a parent/primary carer, but only if the DP is certain that consulting with a parent/ primary carer will not put the child at further risk)

Appropriate action when a concern is raised If you have reasonable grounds for concern as outlined above:

DO: o o o o o o

2.1

Stay calm Listen rather than question Give the person time to say what they want Reassure them without making promises, and take what they say seriously Record accurately in writing what has been said as soon as possible Contact the DCCoI DLP immediately

DO NOT: o o o o o o

Panic or overreact Promise to keep secrets Investigate Make the child repeat the story unnecessarily or question/interrogate Try to deal with the problem of sexual abuse alone Confront the person being accused of the abuse

Procedure for Recording Incidents Relating to a Disclosure or Reasonable Grounds for Concern

If you have cause for concern and think you might need to file a report contact the DCCoI DLP immediately. They will help you assess your concern and decide if a report needs to be filed with TUSLA. If the DLP is unsure about an incident they can contact the duty social worker to clarify the issue and seek advice. If the DLP decides that there are no grounds to file a report and you do not agree, you are still entitled to make your own report to TUSLA. If the DLP decides that there are grounds to make a report to TUSLA then you and the DLP will fill out a Standard Report Form together. This form can be downloaded from: http://www.tusla.ie/uploads/content/Chidlren_First_SRF.pdf Reports should be detailed and factual. They should use quotes where possible and avoid any interpretation of what has been reported.

Once a report has been filed you will receive an acknowledgement of the report. When the report has been assessed by TUSLA you will also receive information on the outcome of the report.

Policy Statement on the Involvement of Primary Carers We are committed to open communication with all primary carers, we undertake to: • • • • • • • • •

Advise primary carers of our Child Protection Policy Inform primary carers and schools of all activities and potential activities Issue contact/consent forms as necessary Comply with health and safety practices Operate child-centred policies in accordance with best practice Adhere to our recruitment guidelines Ensure as far as possible that the activities are age appropriate Encourage and facilitate the involvement of parent(s), carer(s) or responsible adult(s) where appropriate.

2.2

DCCoI Procedures for dealing with an allegation against Staff/ Registered Craftspeople

The priority is to ensure that no child or young person is exposed to unnecessary risk. Two separate procedures must be followed: In respect of the child/young person, the DCCoI DLP will:

In respect of the person against whom the allegation is made, the DCCoI Management will:

•

Consider the concern

•

Ensure initial safeguarding measures

•

Assess if there are reasonable grounds for a report

•

Inform DCCoI CEO Consult with TUSLA/An Garda Síochána

•

Inform parents/guardian if a report is being filled with TUSLA

•

Inform the worker and record their response

•

Make report

•

Update the parents/guardian

•

Await feedback from TUSLA on outcome of report

•

Additional Safeguarding measures if required

•

Follow employment contract & organisational procedures The CEO will advise the worker and follow the agreed actions

•

2.3

Procedure for the employment of Staff and Contractors working with children and vulnerable persons

DCCoI do their up most to ensure all that work for them, either as staff or those under contract met strict conditions of employment for working with children and vulnerable persons.

Recruitment and Selection Policy Statement We will ensure that staff are carefully selected, trained and supervised to provide a safe environment for all children and young people, via the following principles: • • • •

Roles and responsibilities will be clearly defined for every job Opportunities will be advertised as widely as possible We will endeavour to select the most suitable personnel Candidates will be asked to sign a declaration form stating that they have read, understand and agree to abide by the DCCoI Code of Conduct and Child Protection Policies.

• • • •

•

At least two written references – recent, relevant, independent and verbally confirmed will be required Registered craftspeople will be selected by a panel of at least two experts, where appropriate, through an interview process No person deemed to constitute a risk will be selected and Garda Vetting clearances are required for all staff working with children or vulnerable persons.

Exclusions would include: o Any child-related convictions o Refusal to sign the application and declaration forms o Insufficient documentary evidence of identification o Concealment of information on one’s suitability to work with children Where appropriate, there will be a probationary period applicable

Staff/ Registered Craftspeople Management Policy Statement Training and requirements for staff working with children/vulnerable persons.

To protect both staff (paid and voluntary), registered craftspeople and children/young people, we undertake that all who have direct contact with children will: • • • • •

2.4

Be aware of DCCoI’s code of conduct and the designated persons who deal with issues of concern Be expected to have read and agreed to abide by DCCoI’s Child Protection Policy and Procedures Be provided with child protection training Undergo a probationary or trial period where appropriate Receive an adequate level of supervision, support and review of their work practices

Appointment of a designated liaison and deputy liaison person

The DCCoI will ensure the appointment of a Designated Liaison Person (DLP) and deputy DLP. All staff/contractors working with children/vulnerable persons will be made aware of these persons and their contact details. Training for DLPs will be provided as required. DLPs will be named and contact details provided in the DCCoI Child Protection Policy and Safe Guarding Statement.

Confidentiality Statement We in the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland are committed to ensuring peoples’ rights to confidentiality. In relation to child protection: • Total confidentiality cannot be guaranteed where the best interests of the child or young person are concerned • Information will only be forwarded on a ‘need to know’ basis in order to safeguard the child/young person • Staff/volunteers/registered craftspeople must inform the DCCoI DLP if allegations are made.

• Primary carers, children and young people have a right to know if personal information is being shared and/or a report is being made toTUSLA, unless doing so could put the individual at further risk • Procedures are in place in relation to DCCoI use of images of children/young people • Procedures are in place for the safe and secure recording and storing of information in line with data protection

Designated Liaison Person (DLP) Fiona Byrne has been designated as the person to contact if you have an issue or concern about any aspect of a child’s or young persons safety and welfare. It is the responsibility of this person to support and advise staff about policy and procedures in relation to child protection and to ensure that procedures are followed. It is also the responsibility of the designated person to liaise with the Health Services Executive or Gardaí where appropriate.

Role:

• • • • • •

Provide information and advice Receive and consider child protection concerns Consult with TUSLA and duty social work Make a formal referral if required Maintain confidential records Inform parents/carers if it is safe to do so

Fiona Byrne can be phoned at DCCoI on 056 7796142 or 086 4186883 A full list of key contacts can be found on the next page.

KEY CONTACTS NAME

ORG.

Fiona Byrne

DCCoI DLP; Education Manager Susan Holland DCCoI Deputy DLP, Exhibitions & Programmes Curator, National Design & Craft Gallery Charney Weitzman TUSLA; Children First Info & Advice Officer

Duty Social Worker TUSLA; Duty Social Worker Garda Síochána

District HQ

ADDRESS

NUMBER

Castle Yard, Kilkenny

056 7796142 086 4186883

Castle Yard, Kilkenny

056 7796132 086 0473400

Top Floor, Primary Care Unit, St. Lomans Campus, Springfield, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath Yellow House, Wester Rd., Clonmel, Tipperary Stephens Street

044 9395510 086 8157030

052 6177302

056 7775000 Emergency Services: 112

John Tynan Nuala McGrath

Head of Education, Castle Yard, DCCoI Kilkenny

056 7777011

Health and Safety Office and First Aider, DCCoI

056 7796133

Castle Yard, Kilkenny

087 7651625

086 0444107