"The effective protection of minors and a commitment to ensure their human and spiritual development, in keeping with the dignity of the human person, are integral parts of the Gospel message that the Church and all members of the faithful are called to spread throughout the world."

Pope Francis

THE DIGNITY OF THE HUMAN PERSON

Being made in the image and likeness of God, the human person is sacred and precious in the eyes of God the Creator. Every human person holds an inherent dignity that is proper to them. Therefore, the upholding and fostering of the dignity of every person lies at the core of our belief and mission.

SAFEGUARDING COMMITMENT

We acknowledge that children, young people, and vulnerable adults are prone to greater risks which require additional safeguards to promote their safety, wellbeing and participation.

The clergy, employees and volunteers of St Peter's Parish uphold the right to safety of all those who are under its care and those who come into contact with the parish. The parish is committed to participating and creating a culture of safeguarding supported by policies, practices and procedures set out by:

1. The Commission for Children and Young People (Victoria)
2. The National Principles for Child Safe Organisations (Australian Human Rights Commission)
3. The National Catholic Safeguarding Standards (Catholic Professional Standards Limited)

The aim of these frameworks is twofold. First, they ensure the safety, wellbeing and participation whereby every person can grow and flourish. Second, these frameworks make sure that the organisation responds appropriately and effectively if abuse does occur.

The Parish's Commitment Statement for Safeguarding of Children and Young People can be found here.

BASIC RULES

While it is imperative to read and familiarise yourself with these documents, keeping a number of basic rules in your mind when it comes to safeguarding is essential.

• The Never Alone Rule: Make sure that you are never be alone with a child in a room.
• The See, Judge and Act Rule: If you see and/or become suspicious of abusive behaviour, be it physical, mental or emotional, take immediately action and report it promptly to the person in authority (in this case, the parish priest or the parish staff).

SAFEGUARDING REQUIREMENTS FOR CLERGY, STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS

Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility

All parish personnels and volunteers are required to familiarise themselves with safeguarding policies, follow its procedures and display good practices in their ministry. In line with the Archdiocesan policies, all volunteers working in the parish are required to:

• Have a current Working With Children Check (WWCC)
  • Information about WWCC and how to apply or renew can be found here.
• Sign the Code of Conduct
  • Clergy, staff and volunteers are required to sign the Code of Conduct every 3 years.
  • Please read the Code of Conduct; sign the Declaration and return the signed Declaration to the parish via email at epping@cam.org.au, post or dropping it into the parish office.
• Complete the Safeguarding Online Training.
  • Clergy and parish staff are required to complete the training on an annual basis. All volunteers are required to complete the training every 3 years. Click on this link to access the training module.



More on Safeguarding

Safeguarding information and material can be accessed from the Archdiocese Website: https://melbournecatholic.org/safeguarding