Policies

DRAWORKSHOPS POLICIES

DRAWorkshops Listed Policies & Procedures

Child Safe Culture Policy
Privacy Policy
Child Safe Environments Policy
Child Protection Risk Management Strategy Document
Procedure For Child Safety Reporting Policy
Human Services Policy
Work Health and Safety Policy
Customer Service Policy
Emergency Procedures Document

Policy Updates: These Policies may change from time to time and are available on our website.
Policy Enquiries: If you have any queries about our Policy please contact us at:
DRAWorkshops Owner/Manager: Mike Fitzgerald Telephone: 0448 761 904
Email: mike@draworkshops.com.au

Child Safe Culture Policy

In the interest of the safety and welfare of under aged participants, all workshops carried out by DRAWorkshops will be conducted through safe work practices outlined in this policy.

Written consent for a minor to participate in any workshop must be provided by the parent/guardian before commencement of all workshops.
All minors are to be accompanied by at least one parent/guardian per individual or group, (or an adult authorised by the parent/guardian).
No minor is to be left unaccompanied at any time during the duration of all workshops.
Minors are to be dropped off no earlier than 15 minutes prior to commencement of the workshop and collected no later than 15 minutes after the duration of the workshop by the parent/guardian.
A minor is not to be left unaccompanied by a parent/guardian for any time prior or after the duration of any workshops.
A minor is any person under the age of eighteen.
Permission to participate in any workshops will not be granted for any breach of this policy.

Policy authorised by: Michael J Fitzgerald Date: 1 April 2019
Policy Updates: This Policy may change from time to time and is available on our website.
Policy Enquiries: If you have any queries about our Policy please contact us at:
DRAWorkshops Owner/Manager: Mike Fitzgerald Telephone: 0448 761 904
Email: mike@draworkshops.com.au

Privacy Policy

DRAWorkshops is committed to providing quality services to you and this policy outlines our ongoing obligations to you in respect of how we manage your Personal Information.
We have adopted the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) contained in the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) (the Privacy Act). The NPPs govern the way in which we collect, use, disclose, store, secure and dispose of your Personal Information.
A copy of the Australian Privacy Principles may be obtained from the website of The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner at www.aoic.gov.au

What is Personal Information and why do we collect it?
Personal Information is information or an opinion that identifies an individual. Examples of Personal Information we collect include: names, addresses, email addresses, phone and facsimile numbers.
This Personal Information is obtained in many ways including interviews, correspondence, by telephone and facsimile, by email, via our website www.drawworkshops.com.au and from third parties. We don’t guarantee website links or policy of authorised third parties.
We collect your Personal Information for the primary purpose of providing our services to you, providing information to our clients and marketing. We may also use your Personal Information for secondary purposes closely related to the primary purpose, in circumstances where you would reasonably expect such use or disclosure. You may unsubscribe from our mailing/marketing lists at any time by contacting us in writing.
When we collect Personal Information we will, where appropriate and where possible, explain to you why we are collecting the information and how we plan to use it.

Sensitive Information
Sensitive information is defined in the Privacy Act to include information or opinion about such things as an individual's racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, membership of a political association, religious or philosophical beliefs, membership of a trade union or other professional body, criminal record or health information.
Sensitive information will be used by us only:
• For the primary purpose for which it was obtained.
• For a secondary purpose that is directly related to the primary purpose.
• With your consent; or where required or authorised by law.

Third Parties
Where reasonable and practicable to do so, we will collect your Personal Information only from you. However, in some circumstances we may be provided with information by third parties. In such a case we will take reasonable steps to ensure that you are made aware of the information provided to us by the third party.

Disclosure of Personal Information
Your Personal Information may be disclosed in a number of circumstances including the following:
• Third parties where you consent to the use or disclosure; and
• Where required or authorised by law.

Security of Personal Information
Your Personal Information is stored in a manner that reasonably protects it from misuse and loss and from unauthorized access, modification or disclosure.
When your Personal Information is no longer needed for the purpose for which it was obtained, we will take reasonable steps to destroy or permanently de-identify your Personal Information. However, most of the Personal Information is or will be stored in client files which will be kept by us for a minimum of 7 years.

Access to your Personal Information
You may access the Personal Information we hold about you and to update and/or correct it, subject to certain exceptions. If you wish to access your Personal Information, please contact us in writing.

DRAWorkshops will not charge any fee for your access request, but may charge an administrative fee for providing a copy of your Personal Information.
In order to protect your Personal Information we may require identification from you before releasing the requested information.

Maintaining the Quality of your Personal Information
It is an important to us that your Personal Information is up to date. We will take reasonable steps to make sure that your Personal Information is accurate, complete and up-to-date. If you find that the information we have is not up to date or is inaccurate, please advise us as soon as practicable so we can update our records and ensure we can continue to provide quality services to you.

Policy authorised by: Michael J Fitzgerald Date: 1 April 2019
Policy Updates: This Policy may change from time to time and is available on our website.
Policy Enquiries: If you have any queries about our Policy please contact us at:
DRAWorkshops Owner/Manager: Mike Fitzgerald Telephone: 0448 761 904
Email: mike@draworkshops.com.au

Child Safe Environments Policy

Purpose

The Child Safe Environments Policy: sets out DRAWorkshops management’s approach to creating a child safe organisation where children and young people are safe and feel safe during the facilitation of all art based learning courses provided by DRAWorkshops; and provides the policy framework for the management’s approach to the Child Safe Standards.

Scope

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, contractors and whether or not they work in direct contact with children or young people.
This policy applies to all art courses conducted across a range of locations including private homes, community and social venues.

Statement of Commitment and Principles
DRAWorkshops is committed to safety and wellbeing of all children and young people. This will be the primary focus of our care and decision-making.
DRAWorkshops has zero tolerance for child abuse. DRAWorkshops is committed to providing a child safe environment where children and young people are safe and feel safe, and their voices are heard about decisions that affect their lives.
Particular attention will be paid to the cultural safety of Aboriginal children and children from culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds, as well as the safety of children with a disability.
Every person involved in DRAWorkshops Business Activity has a responsibility to understand the important and specific role he/she plays individually and collectively to ensure that the wellbeing and safety of all children and young people is at the forefront of all they do and every decision they make.

In its planning, decision-making and operations DRAWorkshops will:
1. Take a preventative, proactive and participatory approach to child safety.
2. Value and empower children to participate in decisions which affect their lives.
3. Foster a culture of openness that supports all persons to safely disclose risks of harm to children.
4. Respect diversity in cultures and child rearing practices while keeping child safety paramount.
5. Provide written guidance on appropriate conduct and behaviour towards children.
6. Engage only the most suitable people to work with children and have high quality staff and volunteer supervision and professional development.
7. Ensure children know who to talk with if they are worried or are feeling unsafe, and that they are comfortable and encouraged to raise such issues.
8. Report suspected abuse, neglect or mistreatment promptly to the appropriate authorities.
9. Share information appropriately and lawfully with other organisations where the safety and wellbeing of children is at risk.
10. Value the input of and communicate regularly with families and carers.

Policy and procedures

Policies and procedures outlining DRAWorkshops’ approach to the Child Safe Standards are outlined below.

A child-safe culture

DRAWorkshops’ culture encourages staff to raise, discuss and scrutinise concerns making it more difficult for abuse to occur and remain hidden.
DRAWorkshops’ plan for creating a child safe culture can be found on the website at www.draworkshops.com.au

Personnel Code of Conduct

DRAWorkshops managers will ensure that each staff member understands their role, responsibilities and behaviour expected in protecting children and young people from abuse and neglect. Staff will comply with DRAWorkshops Code of Conduct.
DRAWorkshops Code of Conduct sets out clear awareness of the difference between appropriate and inappropriate behaviour.

Human resources practices and training

DRAWorkshops applies best practice standards in the recruitment and screening of staff, and will take all reasonable steps to ensure that it engages the most suitable and appropriate people to work with children. We will ensure that staff induction, education and training programs are a vital part of our commitment to safeguarding children and young people from abuse and neglect. All prospective staff and volunteers are required to undergo National Criminal History Records check and maintain a valid Working with Children Check.
DRAWorkshops Human Services Policy can be found on the Website at www.draworkshops.com.au

Reporting a child safety concern or complaint

DRAWorkshops has clear expectations for staff and volunteers in making a report about a child or young person who may be in need of protection. Immediate action should include reporting their concerns to the DHHS Child Protection or another appropriate agency and notifying the principal or a member of the school leadership team of their concerns and the reasons for those concerns. The school will take action to respond to a complaint.
DRAWorkshops policy and procedures for reporting a child safety concern or complaint can be found on the website at www.draworkshops.com.au

Risk reduction and management

DRAWorkshops believes the wellbeing of children and young people is paramount, and is vigilant in ensuring proper risk management processes. DRAWorkshops recognises there are potential risks to children and young people and will take a risk management approach by undertaking preventative measures.
DRAWorkshops Child Protection Risk Management Strategy can be found on the website at www.draworkshops.com.au

Listening to children

DRAWorkshops has developed a safe, inclusive and supportive environment that involves and communicates with children, young people and their parents/carers. We encourage child and parent/carer involvement and engagement that informs safe school operations and builds the capability of children and parents/carers to understand their rights and their responsibilities.
When the management of DRAWorkshops is gathering information in relation to a complaint about alleged misconduct with, or abuse of, a child they will listen to the complainant’s account of things and take them seriously, check understanding and keep the child (or their parents/carers) informed about progress.

Confidentiality and privacy

DRAWorkshops collects, uses and discloses information about particular children and their families in accordance with Victorian privacy law.
The principles regulating the collection, use and storage of information is included in the DRAWorkshops Privacy Policy available on the website at www.draworkshops.com.au

Policy evaluation and review

To ensure ongoing relevance and continuous improvement, this policy will be reviewed in the context of DRAWorkshops self-evaluation undertaken as part of the business accountability framework. The review will include input from staff, students, and parents/carers.

Definitions
Child abuse Child abuse includes:

Any act committed against a child involving:

A sexual offence, or an offence under section 49B(2) of the Crimes Act 1958 (grooming).

The infliction, on a child, of:

Physical violence.
Serious emotional or psychological harm.
Serious neglect of a child.

Child-connected work

Child-connected work means work authorised by the appropriate authority (parents/carers and performed by an adult in a private or community environment while children are present or reasonably expected to be present.

Child safety
Child safety encompasses matters related to protecting all children from child abuse, managing the risk of child abuse, providing support to a child at risk of child abuse, and responding to incidents or allegations of child abuse.

Learning environment
Learning environment means any physical or virtual place made available or authorised by the appropriate authority (parents/carers) for use by a child including:

A private residence.
Other locations provided by DRAWorkshops for a child’s use such as Community or Social venues.

Staff
DRAWorkshops staff being: an individual working in a learning environment who is:

Directly engaged or employed by DRAWorkshops.
A volunteer or a contracted service provider.

Policy authorised by: Michael J Fitzgerald Date: 1 April 2019
Policy Updates: This Policy may change from time to time and is available on our website.
Policy Enquiries: If you have any queries about our Policy please contact us at:
DRAWorkshops Owner/Manager Mike Fitzgerald Telephone: 0448 761 904
Email: mike@draworkshops.com.au

Child Protection Risk Management Strategy

Child Protection Policy
The Child Protection Policy has been developed by the management of DRAWorkshops to ensure the following:

To prevent foreseeable harm to children and young people in the care of DRAWorkshops.
To ensure that all volunteers who work within DRAWorkshops are assessed for their suitability to work with children under the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998.
To ensure that all people involved with the operations DRAWorkshops are aware of their responsibilities in relation to the above.

Who Must Comply with this Policy?
Management, staff, contractors, volunteers, students, parents, guardians, and carers.

Children and young people Statement of Commitment
DRAWorkshops is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people who use its services and is dedicated to protecting them from harm.
DRAWorkshops therefore:

Ensures that all workers treat children and young people with respect and understanding at all times.
Ensures that those who regularly deal with children and young people within the organisation undergo the Working with Children Check and a NSW Police Check.
Prohibits any forms of abuse against children.
Carefully selects, screens and monitors people whose roles require them to have regular contact with children.
Ensures DRAWorkshops’ Code of Conduct for Interacting with Children and Young People is promoted, enforced and reviewed.
Provides clear procedures for raising concerns or complaints.
Provides education and/or information on child abuse and child protection Policy.
Ensures all volunteers who directly and/or individually deal with children under the age of 18 on a regular basis will undergo the Working with Children Check and undergo a NSW Police Check.
Those relevant volunteers who do not undergo a Working with Children Check and NSW Police Check will not be permitted to regularly deal with children or young people.
If a volunteer’s application to renew a WWCC is refused, DRAWorkshops has the duty to refuse that person’s involvement with children and young people registered with the business.
Where there is evidence, disclosure or reasonable suspicion of harm or abuse to a child or young person within the organisation, the Department of Communities, Child Safety Services or the police will be notified immediately.
All disclosures and allegations of child abuse will be dealt with promptly, seriously, sensitively and confidentially.
A person will not be victimised for reporting an allegation of child abuse and the privacy of all persons concerned will be respected.

Implementing the Policy
This policy will be effective from the date upon which it is accepted and adopted by the management of the organisation.
All staff, contractors and volunteers who work with children and young people are to receive a copy of the policy upon its adoption and are expected to familiarise themselves with the document.

Monitoring Compliance
Compliance with this policy will be monitored by DRAWorkshops Management via regular liaison with staff, contractors and volunteers.

Child Protection Risk Management Strategy

Breaches
The organisation will review any allegations of breaches of this policy and will take steps to minimise the risk of any further breaches. Non-compliance with the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998 will result in penalties imposed under the Act. Refer to the Act for information regarding failure to comply.

Evaluation and Review
This policy will be reviewed annually, in line with DRAWorkshops review of its entire Child Protection Risk Management Strategy. The policy will be reviewed with regard given to any aspects of the document that require changes. This review will be carried out by DRAWorkshops’ Management.

Code of Conduct for Interacting with Children and Young People

Who Must Comply with this Code?
Management, staff, contractors, volunteers, students, parents, guardians, and carers.

Children and young people Code of Conduct

Use appropriate language when dealing with children and young people.
Do not make inappropriate physical contact with any children or young people.
When instructing, maintain professional relationships with children and young people within the business and treat them with the same respect you would offer an adult.
Do not tolerate bullying, either amongst children and young people, or from adults towards children and young people.
Place the safety and welfare of children and young people above all else.
Report all violent and illegal acts.
Set a good example for children and young people by the way you dress, speak and act.

If anyone within the organisation is faced with an ethical dilemma, they should ask themselves:

Is this action legal?
Will the decision be in the best interest of the child or young person?
Do I have all relevant information to make an informed, responsible decision?
Is it consistent with the business and its policies?
Do I think it is the right thing to do – if not, why not?
Would other people think it was the right thing to do - if not, why not? „
What will the consequences be for the business, for my colleagues and for me?
Can I justify my actions?
What will happen if this matter becomes public, for example, in the media?

Recruitment, Training and Management of Staff, Contractors and Volunteers
To assist with effective child protection, DRAWorkshops will implement appropriate recruitment, selection, screening, induction, monitoring and management of staff, contractors and volunteers who work with children and young people within the operations of the business.

Recruitment
Staff, Contractors and Volunteers will be recruited by DRAWorkshops’ management.
The Child Protection Risk Management Strategy will be implemented in all recruiting activities. In particular, applicants for positions regularly dealing with children will be required to demonstrate an ability to comply with child safety requirements and will be informed that it will be mandatory for them to hold and maintain a Working With Children Check and undergo regular NSW Police Checks.

Selection and Screening
Staff, Contractors and volunteers will be screened to ensure that they fit with the business and with the positions to be filled. In screening, DRAWorkshops recognises the importance of assessing the skills, experience and availability of potential applicants, or their commitment to gathering the necessary skills and experience, to match them to the needs of the business.

Induction and Training
Once new personnel have been successfully recruited and screened, DRAWorkshops will ensure their effective induction.

Induction will include making workers aware of the following:

DRAWorkshops commitment to an environment which is safe and friendly to children and young people.
DRAWorkshops child and youth friendly policies, Codes of Conduct and procedures.
Procedures to follow when harm is disclosed or suspected.
Their rights and responsibilities.
What is expected of them.
What they can and can’t do – the boundaries of their roles.
The roles of the key people in the business and to whom the worker should report or go to for help.
What to expect if there is an allegation of harm made against them or to them.
Reporting and grievance procedures.

Once selected, volunteers regularly working with children and young people will be required to undergo a Work With Children Check and NSW Police Check.
Training will be provided to new workers to outline their responsibilities under DRAWorkshops’ Codes of Conduct and other policies. Training will also be provided that alerts workers to the nature of harm which can occur to children and young people and how to respond to disclosures or suspicions of harm.

Training for staff, contractors and volunteers will aim to:

Enhance the skills and knowledge of workers, enabling them to do their job effectively.
Reduce exposure to risks.
Support friendly environments for children and young people.

DRAWorkshops may use information sheets, training materials and strategies to help workers and parents, guardians and carers to identify and manage risks of harm.
Training will not only be undertaken when a new worker begins service. Regular informal and formal training opportunities will be made available to staff, contractors and volunteers to help to increase worker confidence, improve the competency of those people the business relies upon and to motivate workers to achieve objectives.

Handling Disclosures and Suspicions of Harm

Receiving a Disclosure
When workers are confronted with disclosures of harm or suspect harm to children and young people, they are to respond professionally and in the best interests of the child or young person subjected to the alleged harm.
Complaints are to be dealt with promptly, seriously, sensitively and confidentially.

Any worker confronted with disclosures of harm will:

Not react in a shocked or critical way.
Reassure the child or young person that they have done the right thing in telling.
Say they need to tell someone else who can help the child or young person.
Reassure the child or young person that they will only tell someone who will make them safe.
Ultimately believe the child or young person and assume that they are telling the truth.
Ask only non-leading questions.
Only ask the child or young person enough questions to determine the need to report the matter to the NSW Police Service or the Department of Communities, Child Safety Services Dealing with a Disclosure.

Following a disclosure of harm from a child or young person, the management of DRAWorkshops will investigate whether the allegation should be reported to the NSW Police Service or the Department of Communities, Child Safety Services. If the incident(s) are serious or criminal in nature, DRAWorkshops response will be immediate.
All other allegations should be actioned as soon as possible, preferably within 24 hours.

For allegations of a serious or criminal nature, the organisation will follow these guidelines:

If the allegation involves a child at risk of harm, the incident should immediately be reported to the police and/or the Department of Communities, Child Safety Services.
The organisation will contact the Department of Communities, Child Safety Services for advice if there is any doubt whether the complaint should be reported.
If the child’s parent(s), guardian(s) or carer(s) are suspected of committing the abuse, the organisation will report the allegation to the Police or the Department of Communities, Child Safety Services immediately.
Strict confidentiality, impartiality, fairness and due process must be maintained at all times.
Under no circumstances will DRAWorkshops conduct its own investigations into any serious allegations or allegations of a criminal nature.

Managing Breaches of the Risk Management Strategy
DRAWorkshops will review any allegations of breaches of the Child Protection Risk Management Strategy and will take steps to minimise the risk of any further breaches.
Non-compliance with the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998 will result in penalties imposed under the Act.

Compliance
DRAWorkshops will comply with legislation by ensuring that all relevant workers within the business undergo the Working with Children Check and NSW Police Check.
DRAWorkshops management will assist relevant workers in seeking approval to work with children.
DRAWorkshops will respect the confidentiality of information relating to applications by workers seeking approval to work with children and will maintain appropriate systems to protect the privacy of applicants.

Working within a hired venue
The use of hired venues will not compromise the DRAWorkshops’ commitment to providing a safe environment for children and young people by:

Ensuring that enough information has been provided to parents or carers so they can make an informed decision about whether they want their children to attend the venue.
Evaluating any risks involved with attending the venue and developing procedures to minimise those risks.
Ensuring that the organisers of activities are committed to an environment which is safe and friendly for children and young people and that they have developed policies and procedures supporting such an environment.

Rights and Expectations of Parents, Guardians and Carers
DRAWorkshops acknowledges the rights and expectations parents, guardians and carers by:

Encouraging parents, guardians and carers to play a key role in creating a safe environment for children in sport.
Encouraging involvement in activities.
Maintaining open and frank communication.
Encouraging everyone to speak out when they hear language or attitudes that contribute to a negative or unsafe environment.
Reassuring children that it is okay to say ‘no’ if anyone is doing something that makes them feel uncomfortable.
Making sure parents, guardians or carers are not part of the problem.
Never ridiculing a child for making a mistake.

Strategies for Communication and Support
Copies of this Child Protection Risk Management Strategy will be made available to all workers that regularly deal with children and young people within the operations of DRAWorkshops to ensure that all workers understand what is expected of them with regard to providing a safe and friendly environment for children and young people.

Policy authorised by: Michael J Fitzgerald Date: 1 April 2019
Policy Updates: This Policy may change from time to time and is available on our website.
Policy Enquiries: If you have any queries about our Policy please contact us at:
DRAWorkshops Owner/Manager Mike Fitzgerald Telephone: 0448 761 904
Email: mike@draworkshops.com.au

Procedure For Child Safety Reporting Policy

(As contained within the Child Protection Risk Management Strategy Document)
Handling Disclosures and Suspicions of Harm

Receiving a Disclosure
When workers are confronted with disclosures of harm or suspect harm to children and young people, they are to respond professionally and in the best interests of the child or young person subjected to the alleged harm.
Complaints are to be dealt with promptly, seriously, sensitively and confidentially.

Any worker confronted with disclosures of harm will:

Not react in a shocked or critical way.
Reassure the child or young person that they have done the right thing in telling.
Say they need to tell someone else who can help the child or young person.
Reassure the child or young person that they will only tell someone who will make them safe.
Ultimately believe the child or young person and assume that they are telling the truth.
Ask only non-leading questions.
Only ask the child or young person enough questions to determine the need to report the matter to the NSW Police Service or the Department of Communities, Child Safety Services.

Dealing with a Disclosure:
Following a disclosure of harm from a child or young person, the management of DRAWorkshops will investigate whether the allegation should be reported to the NSW Police Service or the Department of Communities, Child Safety Services. If the incident(s) are serious or criminal in nature, DRAWorkshops response will be immediate.
All other allegations should be actioned as soon as possible, preferably within 24 hours.

MANDATORY REPORTING

For allegations of a serious or criminal nature, the organisation will follow these guidelines:

If the allegation involves a child at risk of harm, the incident should immediately be reported to the police and/or the Department of Communities, Child Safety Services.
DRAWorkshops will contact the Department of Communities, Child Safety Services for advice if there is any doubt whether the complaint should be reported.
If the child’s parent(s), guardian(s) or carer(s) are suspected of committing the abuse, DRAWorkshops will report the allegation to the Police or the Department of Communities, Child Safety Services immediately.
Strict confidentiality, impartiality, fairness and due process must be maintained at all times.
Under no circumstances will DRAWorkshops conduct its own investigations into any serious allegations or allegations of a criminal nature.

ALL DRAWorkshops’ EMPLOYEES, CONTRACTORS AND VOLUNTEERS ARE REQUIRED TO REPORT IMMEDIATELY TO DRAWorkshops’ MANAGEMENT ANY OF THE FOLLOWING:

Disclosure or allegation from a child, community member or DRAWorkshops’ staff regarding the safety, abuse or exploitation of a child.
Behavior by any DRAWorkshops employee, contractor or volunteer that breaches this policy or the Child Protection Code of Conduct.
Inappropriate use of DRAWorkshops equipment and personal photographic devices.
Any person engaging in suspicious behaviour that could be associated with child abuse, exploitation or trafficking.
Any involvement in any situation where one’s actions could be misinterpreted or likely to bring DRAWorkshops into disrepute.
Anyone being investigated for any crime or charged with any criminal offence.

IF A PERSON KNOWINGLY CHOOSES NOT TO REPORT AN INCIDENT OR ANY SUSPICION OF CHILD ABUSE OR EXPLOITATION, THEIR RELATIONSHIP WITH DRAWorkshops WILL BE SUSPENDED OR TERMINATED, BASED ON THE RESULTS OF AN INVESTIGATION.

Investigating and Reporting Guidelines

If an incident is reported:

DRAWorkshops’ Management will contact the relevant external mediation services to conduct an investigation.
The investigation and its outcomes will be appropriately documented.
Cooperation with authorities will be required. The investigation may require the interview of the person making an allegation, other witnesses and the alleged perpetrator or suspect. The matter may be referred to local police or other authorities if it is considered to involve criminal behaviour.
All reports will be handled professionally, confidentially and expediently. In all reports reviewed by people other than the immediate investigative committee, the names of people involved and the details will remain confidential. Any disclosure of reports or information will be on a “need to know” basis or will be made if required by relevant law or child protection authorities.
All reports made in good faith will be viewed as being made in the best interests of the child, regardless of the outcomes of any investigation. DRAWorkshops will ensure that the interests of the person reporting child abuse, neglect, or exploitation in good faith are protected.
Any DRAWorkshops representative who intentionally makes false or malicious allegations will face disciplinary action.
The rights and welfare of the child is of prime importance. Every effort will be made to protect the rights and safety of the child throughout any investigation.
During an investigation, the best interests of the child may warrant the suspension of a DRAWorkshops’ worker.

Policy authorised by: Michael J Fitzgerald Date: 1 April 2019
Policy Enquiries: If you have any queries about our Policy please contact us at:
DRAWorkshops Owner/Manager Mike Fitzgerald Telephone: 0448 761 904
Email: mike@draworkshops.com.au

Human Services Policy

(As contained in Child Protection Risk Management Strategy Document)

Human resources practices and training
DRAWorkshops applies best practice standards in the recruitment and screening of staff, and will take all reasonable steps to ensure that it engages the most suitable and appropriate people to work with children. We will ensure that staff induction, education and training programs are a vital part of our commitment to safeguarding children and young people from abuse and neglect. All prospective staff and volunteers are required to undergo National Criminal History Records check and maintain a valid Working with Children Check.

Recruitment, Training and Management of Staff, Contractors and Volunteers
To assist with effective child protection, DRAWorkshops will implement appropriate recruitment, selection, screening, induction, monitoring and management of staff, contractors and volunteers who work with children and young people within the operations of the business.

Recruitment
Staff, Contractors and Volunteers will be recruited by DRAWorkshops’ management.
The Child Protection Risk Management Strategy will be implemented in all recruiting activities. In particular, applicants for positions regularly dealing with children will be required to demonstrate an ability to comply with child safety requirements and will be informed that it will be mandatory for them to hold and maintain a Working With Children Check and undergo regular NSW Police Checks.

Selection and Screening
Staff, Contractors and volunteers will be screened to ensure that they fit with the business and with the positions to be filled. In screening, DRAWorkshops recognises the importance of assessing the skills, experience and availability of potential applicants, or their commitment to gathering the necessary skills and experience, to match them to the needs of the business.

Induction and Training
Once new personnel have been successfully recruited and screened, DRAWorkshops will ensure their effective induction.

Induction will include making workers aware of the following:

DRAWorkshops commitment to an environment which is safe and friendly to children and young people.
DRAWorkshops child and youth friendly policies, Codes of Conduct and procedures.
Procedures to follow when harm is disclosed or suspected.
Their rights and responsibilities.
What is expected of them.
What they can and can’t do – the boundaries of their roles.
The roles of the key people in the business and to whom the worker should report or go to for help.
What to expect if there is an allegation of harm made against them or to them.
Reporting and grievance procedures.

Enhance the skills and knowledge of workers, enabling them to do their job effectively.
Reduce exposure to risks.
Support friendly environments for children and young people.

DRAWorkshops may use information sheets, training materials and strategies to help workers and parents, guardians and carers to identify and manage risks of harm.
Training will not only be undertaken when a new worker begins service. Regular informal and formal training opportunities will be made available to staff, contractors and volunteers to help to increase worker confidence, improve the competency of those people the business relies upon and to motivate workers to achieve objectives.

Compliance
All Staff, Contractors and Volunteers hired by DRAWorkshops’ management will be expected to understand and adhere to all DRAWorkshops’ Policies and Procedures as outlined in DRAWorkshops Policy Documentation.

Relevant Policies

Child Safe Environments Policy
Child Protection Risk Management Strategy Document
Procedure For Child Safety Reporting Policy
Child Safe Culture Policy
Privacy Policy
Work Health and Safety Policy
Customer Service Policy
Emergency Procedures Document

All DRAWorkshops’ Policies are available on DRAWorkshops’ website www.draworkshops.com.au under Policies.

Policy authorised by: Michael J Fitzgerald Date: 1 April 2019
Policy Enquiries: If you have any queries about our Policy please contact us at:
DRAWorkshops Owner/Manager Mike Fitzgerald Telephone: 0448 761 904
Email: mike@draworkshops.com.au

WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY

Obligations
Management is firmly committed to a policy enabling all work activities to be carried out safely, and with all possible measures taken to remove (or at least reduce) risks to the health, safety and welfare of workers, contractors, authorised visitors, and anyone else who may be affected by our operations.
We are committed to ensuring we comply with the Work Health and Safety Act 2012, the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2012 and applicable Codes of Practice and Australian Standards as far as possible.

Responsibilities
Management:
Will provide and maintain as far as possible:

A safe working environment.
Safe systems of work.
Plant and substances in safe condition.
Facilities for the welfare of workers.
Information, instruction, training and supervision that is reasonably necessary to ensure that each worker is safe from injury and risks to health.
A commitment to consult and co-operate with workers in all matters relating to health and safety in the workplace.
A commitment to continually improve our performance through effective safety management.

Workers:
Each worker has an obligation to:

Comply with safe work practices, with the intent of avoiding injury to themselves and others and damage to plant and equipment.
Take reasonable care of the health and safety of themselves and others.
Wear personal protective equipment and clothing where necessary.
Comply with any direction given by management for health and safety.
Not misuse or interfere with anything provided for health and safety.
Report all accidents and incidents on the job immediately, no matter how trivial.
Report all known or observed hazards to their supervisor or manager.

Application of this policy
We seek the co-operation of all workers, customers and other persons. We encourage suggestions for realising our health and safety objectives to create a safe working environment with a zero accident rate.
This policy applies to all business operations and functions, including those situations where workers are required to work off-site.

Policy authorised by: Michael J Fitzgerald Date: 1 April 2019
Policy Updates: This Policy may change from time to time and is available on our website
Policy Enquiries: If you have any queries about our Policy please contact us at:
DRAWorkshops Owner/Manager Mike Fitzgerald Telephone: 0448 761 904
Email: mike@draworkshops.com.au

Customer Service Policy

Policy Statement
Customer service is a top priority of DRAWorkshops. All customers will be treated promptly and respectfully without regard to age, gender, and sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, disability, and language proficiency, social or economic status.

Regulations
1. Staff members are responsible for providing the best customer service possible and are empowered to make decisions that will ensure the best experience for each customer while balancing the needs of the individual with the overall needs of all customers.
2. When answering the phone, an employee will identify him or herself and the name of the business (DRAWorkshops).
3. All staff will wear name tags so that customers can recognize them as DRAWorkshops’ employees.
4. Staff will assist customers on a first come, first served basis to the extent possible without infringing on the service needs of other customers.
5. Staff members will enable successful studio use by assisting customers with DRAWorkshops’ resources and equipment.
6. In cases where DRAWorkshops’ resources are not sufficient to meet customer demand, staff will
6. A customer with complaints about the service received or about DRAWorkshops’ policy shall be referred to management immediately.
7. The business cards of the manager of DRAWorkshops are available at the service desks.

Policy authorised by: Michael J Fitzgerald Date: 1 April 2019
Policy Updates: This Policy may change from time to time and is available on our website.
Policy Enquiries: If you have any queries about our Policy please contact us at:
DRAWorkshops Owner/Manager Mike Fitzgerald Telephone: 0448 761 904
Email: mike@draworkshops.com.au

Emergency Procedures Document

EVACUATION PROCEDURES
Upon hearing the alarm or when directed by a warden -
• Prepare to evacuate.
• Get your workplace ready to be left unattended. Shut down computers; turn off gas and electrical equipment, if safe to do so.
• For fire, close the doors as you go – do not lock them.
• Assist any person in immediate danger.
• Leave the building via the nearest safe exit route.
• Obey all directions from wardens.
• Move calmly to the assembly point and stay there until the All Clear has been given.
• Follow closely the instructions of emergency services personnel and wardens.
• Wait for the OK to re-enter the building.

FIRE EMERGENCY
• Ring 000 and provide details of the fire.
• Assist any person in immediate danger (only if safe to do so).
• If safe to do so, close doors to minimise spread of the fire.
• Attack the fire only if safe to do so.
• Contact nearest warden and follow their directions.
• Assist with the evacuation of mobility impaired occupants.
• Move to the nominated evacuation assembly point, and stay there until the All Clear has been given.
• Follow closely the instructions of emergency services personnel and wardens.

MEDICAL EMERGENCY
Assess the situation -
• Do not move a casualty unless they are exposed to a life threatening situation.
• Contact the nearest first aid officer.
• In extreme emergency situations contact the ambulance service by dialling 000.
• Arrange for the ambulance to be met at the front gate or other nominated area.
• Remain with the casualty and administer first aid as appropriate until assistance arrives.
• Follow closely the instructions of emergency services personnel and campus wardens.

PERSONAL PREPARATION
• Know the location of emergency exits in your building.
• Plan an escape route from your desk to each exit.
• Note the location of the fire extinguisher.
• Familiarise yourself with the identity and location of the first aid kit.

Your personal safety is most important.

Policy authorised by: Michael J Fitzgerald Date: 1 April 2019
Policy Updates: This Policy may change from time to time and is available on our website
Policy Enquiries: If you have any queries about our Policy please contact us at:
DRAWorkshops Owner/Manager Mike Fitzgerald Telephone: 0448 761 904
Email: mike@draworkshops.com.au