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Child Safe Code of Conduct
Purpose
This Code of Conduct outlines appropriate standards of behaviour for all adults towards children in Newcastle Youth Orchestra Inc. The Code serves to protect children, reduce opportunities for abuse or harm to occur, and promote child safety in the orchestra environment.
Scope
This Code applies to all staff, volunteers, board members, parents, and visitors involved with Newcastle Youth Orchestra Inc.
Code of Conduct
I WILL:
1. Treat all children with respect and dignity.
2. Listen to and value children's ideas and opinions.
3. Welcome all children and their families and be inclusive of all cultures, faiths, and genders.
4. Respect cultural, religious, and political differences and act in a culturally sensitive way.
5. Model appropriate adult behaviour.
6. Use positive and affirming language when speaking with children.
7. Respect the privacy of children and their families.
8. Maintain appropriate physical and emotional boundaries with children.
9. Help provide an open, safe and supportive environment for all children to interact and socialise.
10. Immediately report any concerns about child safety or welfare to the designated Child Safety Officer or appropriate authorities.
11. Adhere to all relevant Australian and New South Wales legislation regarding child safety.
I WILL NOT:
1. Engage in any form of inappropriate physical contact or sexual behaviour with children.
2. Use oppressive behaviour or inappropriate language with children.
3. Discriminate on the basis of age, gender, race, culture, vulnerability or sexuality.
4. Work with children while under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.
5. Develop 'special' relationships with specific children that could be seen as grooming.
6. Show favouritism through the provision of gifts or inappropriate attention.
7. Photograph or video a child without the consent of the child and their parents or guardians.
8. Engage in open discussions of a mature or adult nature in the presence of children.
9. Use inappropriate means to discipline a child.
10. Be alone with a child, unless absolutely necessary and in the interest of the child.
11. Have unauthorised contact with children online or by phone.
Consequences for Breaching the Code of Conduct
Breaches of this Code of Conduct may lead to disciplinary action, including termination of employment or volunteer agreements. Serious breaches may result in a report being made to authorities such as the police or child protection services.
Acknowledgement
I have read this Code of Conduct and agree to abide by it at all times.
