Information Booklet - Country Fire Authority

CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 2013CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection PolicyInformation BookletEdition 2 – May 2013

ForewordCFA has an unsurpassed reputation for its highstandard of service to the Victorian Community, bothwithin Australia and internationally. For this reason,the community has a very high expectation that CFAmembers will provide a safe environment for thechildren and young people in our care.CFA takes this responsibility and the trust thecommunity places in us very seriously. As suchCFA and its members have been proactive inthe development of the CFA Children/YoungPersons Policy which works hand in hand withthe Victorian State Governments Working withChildren Legislation.Children and young people have participated ineducational and social activities, with CFA for over50 years. In fact many of our senior operations staffstarted out as Junior Members and fondly reminisceabout “growing up” at the station.Many members have expressed the view that allof these “rules and regulations” are taking all of thefun out of working with children, and they fear thatthe Juniors program may disappear. The truth isactually the opposite having a formal policy makesour programs safer for both the children and thevolunteers who work with them. The popularity of theJunior Championships and the increasing numberof newly established Junior brigades, highlight thedesire of young people to be part of CFA and theneed for CFA to continue to play an active role intheir development.Although we now have greater screening andselection processes for our Junior Leaders, CFAdoes not apologise for these more stringentpractices. We understand that by being vigilant in theselection of our volunteers who work with children,we are hopefully deterring people who may wish tojoin CFA for the purpose of abusing them.Child protection is not just a concern for brigadeswith Juniors. Providing a safe environment for allchildren who come into contact with CFA is of equalimportance, as CFA is also actively involved withchildren in programs such as JFAIP, Fire Safe Kids,Fire Safe Youth, Mobile Education Unit, Advanceand VCAL or through public presentations festivalsand CFA family events.Although there is an increased awareness in thecommunity of child abuse issues, it’s important torecognise that the vast majority of volunteers whowork with children have the best interests of childrenat heart. The positive contribution these men andwomen make to the lives of young people in ourcommunities is recognised and highly valued.The CFA Children/Young Persons ProtectionPolicy Information Booklet helps to clarify ourresponsibilities in relation to the welfare and safety ofchildren assisting brigades in developing programsthat are fun and safe for all members and allowingchildren and young people to actively participate inCFA both now and in the future.AcknowledgementsThe development of this booklet would not havebeen possible without:■ The Expertise and guidance of BernadetteMcMenamin OA, Fiona Williams and the teamfrom Childwise.■ The willingness of CFA members to share, adviseand participate in what seemed like hundredsof consultations.■ The Youth Programs Steering committee whowere there from day one and gave a considerableamount of time and energy to the evolution ofthe booklet.■ And most importantly, CFA Junior Leaders, whosecommitment to the safety and welfare of ourJunior Members initiated the booklets creation inthe first place.DisclaimerCFA has provided this booklet to assist brigades withconcerns in relation to working with children.It is intended as a guide only.The physical and sexual abuse of children is acriminal matter and as such should be referred to theappropriate authorities.For further assistance contact your District Office.SourcesThe following information has been sourced fromthe Children, Youth and Families Act 2005, TheDepartment of Human Services and ChildwiseChoose with Care: A Handbook for Building SaferOrganisations for Children.Published May 2013 in Australia by Volunteer Services,Operational Training & Volunteerism,CFA Headquarters, 8 Lakeside Drive, Burwood East,Victoria 3151.© CFA 2013Other than that permitted under the Copyright Act1968, no part of this publication may be reproduced byany means without written permission from the CountryFire Authority – Victoria. Enquiries should be addressedto the publisher.For any matters relating to this publication, contact:Youth Programs Manager, Volunteer Services,Operational Training & Volunteerism,CFA Headquarters, 8 Lakeside Drive, Burwood East,Victoria 3151.CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 2013

ContentsDefinitionsIntroductionWhy does CFAneed a ChildProtection Policy?How areChildren and YoungPeople involvedin CFA?What is a ChildSafe Organisation?How is CFAgoing to ensureit is a Child SafeOrganisation?(Prevention)CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 2013■ What is the Working with Children CheckPageii1■ Who in CFA needs a Working with Children Check23■ Junior Members 3■ Brigade Members 16 & 17 3■ Advance/VCAL 4■ JFAIP 4■ Fire Safe Kids/Youth 4■ Mobile Education Units (MEU) 4■ Informal Events/Family Involvement 478■ By having a policy 6■ By complying with the WWCC Legislation 6■ By having a Code of Behaviour 6■ By providing Information 11■ By understanding what Child Abuse is 12■ By recognising Indicators of Abuse 13■ By ensuring that Appropriate People areselected to Work With Children 15■ By dispelling the Myths Around Child Abuse 15■ By analysing the Risks 16■ By knowing what to do when Abuseis Suspected 18■ By having a Process in Place 18■ Making a Report 20i

DEFINITIONSThe following informationapplies to all CFA MembersAll CFA Members should be familiar withthe requirements of CFA Children/YoungPersons Protection Policy and how itrelates to their work.It is a requirement of CFA that all Membersoperate within the prescribed policy &procedures of the organisation.Note: Only Brigades with/wanting toregister Junior Members will be requiredto nominate & screen members for theposition of Junior Leader. Guidelineson the nomination & screening ofJunior Leaders are outlined in theJVDP Guidebook available on BrigadesOnline or by contacting your DistrictHeadquarters.CFA Member: All registered CFA personnel(volunteers and employees).Children/Young Persons: Both terms can be usedto describe any person/s below the age of 18 years(Children, Youth and Families Act 2005).Child Protection: Child Protection is the termused to describe the responsibilities and actionsorganisations and individuals take to prevent or stopchildren/young persons being harmed or abused.Child Abuse: Child Abuse is the intentional harm orfailure to prevent harm of children/young persons.Child abuse can be physical, emotional and/orsexual, and may include neglect and harassingbehaviours like bullying.Young Member: All CFA Members under the age of18 years (Junior Members 11 but less than 16 andMembers 16 & 17).Members 16 & 17: Young people 16 &17 years ofage registered as a CFA Member.Junior Member: Young people 11 but less than 16years of age registered as a CFA Junior Member.Junior Leader: Any CFA Member nominated tothe position within their Brigade who has directresponsibility for the safety and well being of JuniorMembers (Refer JVDP Guidebook).Children’s/Youth Program Deliverers: Any CFAMember who may as part of their role be involved inthe delivery of programs to Children/Young Personswho do not have direct responsibility for their safetyand well being (ie: JFAIP, Advance, VCAL, Fire SafeKids/Youth, Mobile Ed unit etc.).iiCFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 2013

INTRODUCTIONWhen raised, the topic of child abuse often stirsunease. Knowledge followed by action is the bestsolution to this reaction.Protecting children from harm is a sharedresponsibility between the family, the generalcommunity, community agencies, and professionalsworking with children, police and government.Each has a significant role to play in ensuring thesafety and wellbeing of children and young people.By understanding the underlying nature of thiscriminal offence and identifying vulnerable situationsin which a child/young person may be placed at risk,as an organisation CFA has designed safeguardstailored to our needs to ensure that all of ourmembers feel safe and empowered to prevent theabuse of children/young people in our care.What is the Working withChildren Check?The Working with Children Check (WWCC) is aninitiative by the Department of Justice to furtherprotect children in Victoria. It’s a mandatory checkingsystem for people who work or volunteer inchild-related work.The WWCC helps protect children from sexualor physical harm by checking a person’s criminalhistory for serious sexual, serious violence orserious drug offences and findings from professionaldisciplinary bodies. It is different from a police recordcheck and is continually monitored for new relevantoffences or findings.The Check is conducted by the Department ofJustice and Application Forms are available atall Australia Post Offices. The check is free forvolunteers and is valid for 5 years.Who in CFA needs a Check?The Working with Children Check does not apply toall volunteers who have contact with children,only those who have regular unsupervised directcontact with children in child-related work.For CFA that is those Brigade members nominatedto the position of Junior Leader(Refer JVDP Guidebook).No other CFA volunteer is required to obtain aWWCC, including deliverers of programs such asJFAIP, Fire Safe Kids/Youth, Mobile Education Unit,Advance or VCAL, due to all of these programsbeing supervised by employees of the Departmentof Education or in the case of JFAIP in the presenceof parents or guardians.CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 20131

HOW ARECHILDREN ANDYOUNG PEOPLEINVOLVED IN CFA?Junior Members11 but less than 16 years oldRegistered with a CFA brigadeas per Chief Standing Order 3.0.Brigade Members16 & 17 years oldRegistered with a CFA brigadeas per Chief Standing Order 6.0.Whilst the CFA Children/Young Persons ProtectionPolicy aims to protect all children/young people thatcome into formal or informal contact with CFA, thepolicy focuses in particular on our Young Members,who CFA has direct responsibility for whilstparticipating in our programs.Formal programs for Young Members:Specifically targeted at young people under 18(Junior Members 11–15 and Members 16 & 17).Through the registration of Junior Members, CFA isaiming to assist in the development of young peoplethrough lessons in team work, sportsmanship, firesafety, and community development, whilst havingfun, learning essential skills and promoting theCFA to the wider community. It is hoped that withthis association, positive relationships and skilldevelopment these young people will in the futuremake a positive contribution to their community andperhaps become Senior Members of their local CFA.Although often seen as young adults in Brigades,these young people are defined as children by lawand are included in the Children/Young PersonsProtection Policy. The safety of these young peoplewill be ensured by the following information,The Parental/Guardian Consent Form and the SOPCrew Composition for 16 & 17 year old membersspecifically targeted to provide for their physical andemotional safety.Formal programs for Non Members:Such as Advance, VCAL, JFAIP and Fire SafeKids/Youth Mobile Education Unit (MEU) involvingchildren and young people who may not beMembers of CFA.CFA is involved in delivering Fire Safety, Educationand Community Development programs to a varietyof children and young people.CFA has a duty to act responsibly whilst interactingwith these children, however as non-members theduty of care for the safety and well being of thesechildren is not the direct responsibility of the CFA.Each individual who delivers education whilstrepresenting CFA will be expected to behavewithin the boundaries of the Code of Behaviour forMaintaining a Child Safe Environment.Informal Brigade interaction & presentations:May include open days, festivals, school visits,family days, young people “dropping into” Brigadesor members bringing their children along.All interactions with children/young people outsideYouth Members’ activities should be conductedin the presence of teachers or parents or adultguardians. CFA Members should not be runningprograms and activities with children/young peoplewho are not Members of CFA without theseguardians present.CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 20133

Advance & VcalFurther information will be provided in the induction/training for this specific program or by contactingyour local CFA District Head quarters.Juvenile Fire AwarenessIntervention Program (JFAIP)Further information will be provided in the induction/training for this specific program or by contactingyour local CFA District Headquarters.Fire Safe Kids/Fire Safe Youth & MEUFurther information will be provided in the induction/training for this specific program or by contactingyour local CFA District Headquarters.Informal activitiesIt cannot be assumed that children present atthe station will be supervised, as Members maybe involved in Brigade activities and not payingattention to what children are doing and who may beinteracting with them.CFA Members working with secondary schoolage students as part of a Department ofEducation program.Duty of care responsibility for this program lies withthe Department of Education and its appointedschool teachers.Teachers should be present on all activities.A program for children/young people who lightor are at risk of lighting fires. Trained CFA/JFAIPpractitioners work in the family home with parentspresent to work with the child. JFAIP practitionersdo not run one on one sessions with children unlessaccompanied by a parent or adult guardian.■ Further information will be provided in theinduction/training for this specific program or bycontacting your local CFA District Headquarters.Fire safety education delivered to primary &secondary school children by CFA Members.Responsibility for the safety and wellbeing of childrenwhilst participating in any of these activities restswith the teacher who should be present whilst thesession is being delivered.■ Further information will be provided in theinduction/training for this specific program or bycontacting your local CFA District Headquarters.CFA Members often bring their own children alongto functions and activities at their local Brigade.CFA supports family involvement and encouragesMembers to involve their children in family daysand events.Brigades also run open days and events for thecommunity where children come along to find outabout CFA, (or they might just drop in to see what’sgoing on when you are at the station one day).CFA Members whilst conducting displays andactivities at schools or festivals should ensure thatteachers and/or parents are responsible for thesupervision of children.You cannot prevent children/young people fromdropping into the station to see what’s going on or tohave a look at the trucks and equipment.Whilst not dampening this enthusiasm, Membersshould actively discourage children/young peoplefrom hanging out at the station if parents/guardiansare not present.You are in a vulnerable situation if you are aloneat the station and you have a child/young personhanging out with you. Better to be safe and havethem involved in the Juniors Program, or withtheir parents.No children (not including Young Members) underthe age of 18 should be present at a CFA stationunless accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.CFA is only responsible for the supervision and careof children/young people who are Members.Junior Members should also not be present at theBrigade without a parent or adult guardian whennot involved in their Juniors Program and beingsupervised by their Junior Leaders (unless involvedin a Brigade activity authorised and approved by theOIC i.e. juniors participating in seniors training).4CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 2013

WHAT IS ACHILD SAFEORGANISATION?A Child Safe Organisation:■ Takes a preventative, proactive and participatorystance on child protection issues.■ Considers duty of care a moral, as well as alegal obligation.■ Is one in which all participants feel safe and areencouraged to make constructive suggestionsand voice concerns at any time.■ Has an understanding of the child protectionpolicy and an awareness of what procedures arein place and why due process is important.■ Does not assume that their programs will neverbe targeted by a child abuser, but actively andconsistently ensures best practice in all of itsactivities to minimise the risk of abuse occurring.■ Is where voicing concerns are not viewed asan accusation and Members have confidencethat concerns will be dealt with promptly andprofessionally.■ Where everyone in the organisation has the rightto feel safe, to feel supported and to feel thatthey can speak up when they have a problemor concern.■ Manages information confidentially with duerespect for all participants.■ Does not construct policies and systems that areauthoritarian, cumbersome and inflexible.■ It has a willingness to develop policies andprocedures that make sense to its people.■ Ensures that staff, volunteers and clients areaware of the policies and procedures of theorganisation and given support and trainingwhen required.■ Is willing to test the effectiveness of its proceduresthrough regular review and evaluation.■ Understands that its real strength resides inthe capacity and willingness of the people inthe organisation – children and their families,along with CFA Members – to bring the policyto life through clear understanding of their rightsand responsibilities, open communication andactive participation.CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 20135

HOW IS CFAGOING TO ENSUREIT IS A CHILD SAFEORGANISATION?By having a PolicyChild protection does not happen by chance.It requires commitment, leadership and a genuinedesire to reduce the risk of child abuse.By complying withthe Working WithChildren legislationBy having aCode of BehaviourCode of Behaviour for Creatingand Maintaining a ChildSafe EnvironmentThe Code of Behaviour for Creating and Maintaininga Child Safe Environment aims to provide guidanceto all members in the prevention and accusation ofthe physical, sexual and emotional abuse of childrenand young people.Through the adoption of the CFA Children/YoungPersons Protection Policy CFA has implemented anumber of safeguards and procedures, to ensure thesafety and well being of children and young people.A series of child protection materials and informationhas been developed to assist CFA Members toachieve child protection.By embracing child protection and making it anImportant part of our culture we are more likely toachieve an environment that is safe for children andthe adults who work with them.An organisation that is committed to practices thatensure child protection makes it less appealing to aperson who purposefully aims to abuse children.All members nominated to the position of JuniorLeader (with the exception of Police Officersand registered School Teachers) will be requiredto obtain a Working with Children Check cardprior to their appointment to the position (ReferJVDP Guidebook).CFA is committed to the safety and wellbeing of allchildren and young people whilst in the care of ourorganisation. We support the Convention on theRights of the Child (United Nations 1989) and will actwithout hesitation to ensure a child safe environmentis maintained at all times.We also support the rights of all CFA Members andencourage their active participation in building andmaintaining a secure environment for all.The general community has a high expectation thatCFA members will behave legally and ethically.For this reason it is important that all membersbehave in accordance with this code.The Code of Behaviour for Creating & Maintaining aChild Safe Environment is not intended to be read asa set of rules when working with children and youngpeople. It does not and cannot address all possibleethical challenges which individuals may encounter,but provides guidance in decision-making. This Codeof Behaviour for Creating and Maintaining a ChildSafe Environment will provide a framework fordecisions, actions and behaviour, without diminishingrights under common and statute law.6CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 2013

The Country Fire Authorityhas a right to:The Country Fire Authorityis responsible for:CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 2013The underlying purpose of the Code is to providechildren, young people and adult members with theright to work in a secure and structured environment,and parents the right to expect that their children areparticipating in an environment that promotes theprinciples of care, courtesy and respect for the rightsof others.The Code of Behaviour is based on a set of rightsand related responsibilities for the organisation.adults, and children and young people.It is important that all adults in CFA, particularly thosein the role of Junior Leader, ensure that membersunderstand the Code of Behaviour for Creating andMaintaining a Child Safe Environment.It is expected that adults, particularly Junior Leaders,reinforce the Code of Behaviour for Creating anMaintaining a Child Safe Environment throughappropriate strategies.Guidance on appropriate levels of supervision,behaviours and discipline will be provided toJunior Leaders.■ Expect all members to comply with this Code ofBehaviour for Creating and Maintaining a ChildSafe Environment.■ Expect all members to maintain standards ofreasonable behaviour.■ Take appropriate action/discipline on memberswho breach the Code of Behaviour for Creatingand Maintaining a Child Safe Environment ororganisational policies.■ Expect all members to undertake appropriatetraining when required.■ Expect all members not to physically, sexually oremotionally abuse children and young people,including bullying and harassment.■ Take appropriate action in the event of anaccusation of child abuse.■ Prevent people who have previous convictionsof child abuse and/or other related convictionshaving a role of responsibility with children andyoung people in CFA (in accordance with theWorking with Children Act 2005).■ Providing a safe environment for its members.■ Providing ongoing training and informationfor members.■ Wide promotion of policy and guidelines.■ Facilitating open discussion on childprotection issues.■ Providing support to members who reportsuspected abuse.■ Conducting a fair, just and confidentialinvestigation process for the member on whomallegations have been made.7

Adult Members of the CFAhave the right to:Adult Members of the CFAare responsible for:■ Treating suspected abuseinformation confidentially.■ Taking appropriate action if members breachstandards of reasonable behaviour or policiesand regulations.■ Ensuring that all allegations are treated seriouslyand all reporting and disciplinary proceduresare followed.■ Access ongoing training and /or informationon conducting activities with children andyoung people.■ Privacy (in accordance with Privacy Legislationand CFA Privacy Policy HR02005).■ Challenge unacceptable behaviour.■ Be supported in the reporting of suspected abuse.■ Access professional support services.■ Be protected from abuse by other adult members,children, young people and their parents.■ Protect children and young people without puttingthemselves at risk.■ A fair, just and confidential investigation processif they are the person on whom allegations havebeen made.■ In the role of Junior Leader, to set and followthrough with rules and consequences forJunior Members.■ Appropriately challenging unacceptable behaviourin all members.■ Attending training as required.■ Acting in accordance with agreed rules andboundaries.■ Respecting everyone’s right to personal privacy atall times.■ Dressing appropriately whilst representingthe CFA.■ Not using CFA to promote their own beliefs,behaviours or practices where they areincompatible with the law or the policies of CFA.■ Responding to children or young peoplesallegations of abuse.■ Protecting the rights of children and young people.■ Reporting suspected or known abuse.■ Not abusing children or young people, physically,sexually or emotionally including harassmentand bullying.■ Conducting themselves in a manner consistentwith their position as a positive rote modelto children and young people and as arepresentative of the CFA.8CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 2013

When in the role of Junior Leaderan adult member should:It is important that all adults in CFA, particularly thosein the role of Junior Leader ensure that membersunderstand the Code of Behaviour for Creating andMaintaining a Child Safe Environment.It is expected that adults, particularly Junior Leaders,reinforce the Code of Behaviour for Creating andMaintaining a Child Safe Environment throughappropriate strategies.Guidance on appropriate levels of supervision,behaviours and discipline will be provided to JuniorLeaders and is included in the Junior BrigadeManagement Manual available on Brigades Onlineor your local district HQ.The contribution of adult modelling in buildingpositive and respectful relationships should notbe under estimated. Juniors will learn about whatis appropriate in their Brigade by what they seehappening around them. Codes of Behaviour, rules,consequences or regulations are of little value if theysit in a book or a poster on the wall. They need to beadhered to and enforced, fairly and consistently.When in the role of Junior Leaderan Adult Member should not:■ Following organisational policy and guidelinesaround the safety of children and young peopleas outlined in the CFA Children/Young PersonsProtection Policy.■ Raising concerns, issues, problems with Captain/OIC and/or Operations Manager as soonas possible.■ Providing a physically and psychologically safeenvironment for children and young people.■ Ensure suitable ratios of Junior Leaders to JuniorMembers (Refer Junior Brigade ManagementManual). There should be a minimum of twoJunior Leaders at all times when running a JuniorBrigade activity.■ Foster teamwork to ensure the safety of JuniorMembers in their care.■ Use appropriate team management behaviour.■ Maintain confidentiality about sensitive informationthat may result during interactions with JuniorMembers. (Whilst it is important to maintainrespect for the privacy of Junior Members inrelation to things like learning difficulties, medicalconditions or family breakdowns, the JuniorLeader needs to take action on matters ofsignificant concern in a responsible and promptmanner. Never offer to keep secrets for a JuniorMember on issues of abuse or illegal activity.)■ Ensure that when involved in overnight activitiesthat male and female Junior Leaders are present.(Whilst it is up to the Brigade to choose the mostappropriate Junior Leaders regardless of sex, it ismandatory for a female adult to accompany/JuniorMembers if female Juniors are present and a maleadult to accompany if male Juniors are presentwhen on overnight activities.)■ Assist Junior Members to develop positiveattitudes and behaviours that recognise therights of all people to be safe and free from bothharassment and abuse.■ Run a Juniors group, session or training activitywithout another Junior Leader/adult CFA memberpresent.■ Engage in or allow others to engage in abusiveinitiation ceremonies.■ Engage in or allow others to engage in rough,aggressive, physically distressing or sexuallyprovocative activities.■ Hold, kiss cuddle or touch Junior Members in aninappropriate and/or culturally insensitive way.(Ensure that physical contact is appropriate tothe situation, necessary for the young person’sskill development and/or that the young person iscomfortable with or initiates the contact.)CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 20139

Youth Members:Junior and 16 &17 yr old BrigadeMembers whilst in the care of CFAhave a right to:■ Show favouritism to an individual Junior Member.(Favouritism should be actively discouraged.It can quickly become a strategy for isolating achild and developing an adult/child dependencythat is unhelpful for the child and creates asituation of vulnerability. Children of course, mayneed extra attention from time to time and thisshould be done in an open and non-exclusivemanner.)■ Make sexually suggestive comments to a JuniorMember, even as a joke.■ Be in closed quarters with Junior Memberswithout a second adult present.■ Spend time alone with a Junior Member.(Always ensure that another adult is present whenconducting one to one coaching or instruction.When supporting a Junior Member or discussingsensitive issues it is ok to be out of hearing rangebut within visual range, i.e. leave the door open orbe near a window.)■ Take a Junior Member to your home, orencourage meetings outside the program activity.(This of course does not apply if the JuniorMember is part of the Junior Leader’s immediatefamily or the Junior Leader has an existingrelationship with the family of the Junior Memberand it is not part of a CFA activity.)■ Conduct a CFA Junior activity at their home.■ Transport Junior Members alone (where possible),or offer to drive or walk a Junior Member homewithout prior written parental agreement.■ Receive such care and protection as is necessaryfor their safety, welfare and wellbeing.■ Privacy.■ An inclusive environment.■ Be protected from abuse from other members.■ Be treated with courtesy, kindness and respect.■ Express their feelings, concerns and opinions in apolite and respectful manner.■ Participate in an environment of harmonyand cooperation.■ Expect that the rules and consequences areapplied fairly and consistently and respect therights of all involved.■ Receive assistance when they are sufferingbullying or harassment.■ Expect that adults will discipline those who donot act in accordance with the Code of Behaviourfor Creating and Maintaining a Child SafeEnvironment and the rules and consequences asset by individual Brigades.10CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 2013

Youth Members:Junior and 16 &17 yr old BrigadeMembers whilst in the care of CFAare responsible for:By providing InformationBrigades Online/CFA WebsitePolicy and Information BookletBriefing Sessions■ Treating each other with courtesy, kindnessand respect.■ Helping to maintain a safe (physically andemotionally) environment.■ Developing responsibility for their own actions andpersonal safety.■ Maintaining standards of reasonable behaviour.■ Acting in accordance with agreed rulesand boundaries.■ Reporting inappropriate behaviour.■ Not abusing other children or young people,physically, sexually or emotionally includingharassment & bullying.■ Raising issues of concern with their Junior Leaderor other adult member of the Brigade if they feelthey are being treated unfairly or being at risk ofbeing abused.All CFA members will have access to information onCFA Children/Young Persons Protection Policy andguidelines on Brigades Online. General informationwill be available to the public on the CFA website.This booklet can be downloaded on Brigades onlineand CFA public website.Junior LeadersCFA Brigades starting a Junior Brigade will receiveinformation and have the opportunity for discussionand clarification at the mandatory Junior BrigadeInduction Briefing. These sessions will enable JuniorLeaders to be aware of the risks, ensure duty ofcare, and respond appropriately if an incident ofabuse is reported or suspected.Children/Youth Program DeliverersChild protection briefing sessions may be arequirement of individual programs and will be at thediscretion of the department responsible.Area StaffBriefing sessions and/or information will be providedto Area staff as required.CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 201311

By understandingwhat Child Abuse isChild abuse is the INTENTIONALharm of or failure to prevent theharm of Children/Young People.For the purpose of this documentthe following definitions of Abuseare defined by the Department ofHuman Services as:Sexual Abuse /MisconductChild abuse can take many forms. Children/youngpeople can be harmed by both verbal and physicalactions. They can also be harmed by people failingto provide them with basic care and supervision.Having a Child Protection Policy does not mean thatJunior Leaders and others involved in working withchildren/ young people in CFA cannot physicallycontact children/ young people in anyway.There are times when instructing and coachinginvolves physical contact with children/young peopleto guide them in their activities. This may includelifting children in and out of trucks or assisting withthe use of Brigade equipment. Or it could be assimple as a Junior Member thanking their coach witha hug or helping apply ice to an injury.It does not also mean that Leaders are unableto administer appropriate levels of discipline forinappropriate behaviour and activities.Sexual abuse is when a child or young person isused by an older or bigger child, adolescent or adultfor his or her own sexual stimulation or gratification.Sexual abuse falls in to 2 categories:Contact:■ Being touched or fondled in sexual areas.■ Being forced to touch another’s sexual areas.■ Being held or kissed in a sexual manner.■ Being forced to perform oral sex.■ Vaginal or anal intercourse.■ Vaginal or anal penetration with an objector finger.Physical AbuseNon-Contact:■ Obscene phone calls/obscene remarks oncomputers or in notes.■ Voyeurism.■ Exposure to pornography.■ Sexually intrusive questions or comments.■ Indecent exposure.■ Being forced to masturbate or watchothers masturbate.Physical abuse occurs when a person purposefullyinjures a child or young person.This may take theform of slapping, punching, shaking, kicking, burningor shoving.12CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 2013

Emotional/Verbal AbuseBullyingNeglectBy recognising theIndicators of AbusePossible Indicators ofPhysical AbusePossible Indicators ofEmotional AbuseCFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 2013Emotional abuse is a chronic attack on a child oryoung person’s self esteem. It can take the form ofname calling, threatening, ridiculing, intimidating orisolating the child or young person.Deliberate psychological, emotional and/or physicalharassment of one person by another, or a group.Bullying can include exclusion from peer group,intimidation, extortion and violence. The mostcommon form of bullying is verbal harassment.Neglect is the failure to provide the child with thebasic necessities of life such as food, clothing,shelter and supervision, to the extent that the child/young person’s health and development are placedat risk.Indicators may be the only signs that a child is beingabused. Indicators of child abuse may be physical,behavioural or both. Singularly, and more often incombination, they can alert us to the possibility ofabuse. It should not be automatically assumed thatabuse is occurring, and talking to the child mayreveal something quite innocent. it is importanthowever, not to dismiss significant changes inbehaviour, fears, worries, and physical indicators achild is exhibiting.■ Bruises, burns, sprains, dislocations, bites or cuts.■ Improbable excuses given to explain injuries.■ Refusal to discuss injuries.■ Withdrawal from physical contact.■ Arms and legs kept covered in hot weather.■ Fear of returning home or being around aparticular person.■ Showing wariness or distrust of adults.■ Self- destructive tendencies.■ Being aggressive towards others.■ Being very passive and compliant.■ Chronic running away behaviour.■ Highly anxious.■ Physical, mental and emotional developmentis delayed.■ Showing delayed speech or suddenspeech disorder.■ Fear of new situations.■ Low self esteem.■ Inappropriate emotional responses topainful situations.■ Extremes of passivity or aggression.■ Drug or alcohol abuse.■ Chronic running away behaviour.■ Compulsive stealing.13

Possible Indicators of NeglectPossible Indicators of Sexual AbuseChild sexual abuse is difficult to detect because ofthe secrecy that surrounds it. Children are oftenthreatened or coerced by perpetrators into remainingsilent and are frightened of the consequences if theydisclose abuse. Children/young people generallydo not disclose the abuse directly. However theymay disclose that they have been sexually abusedthrough behavioural signs and indicators.■ Frequent hunger.■ Poor personal hygiene.■ Constant tiredness.■ Inappropriate clothing. eg summer clothesin winter.■ Frequent lateness.■ Untreated medical problems.■ Low self esteem.■ Poor social relationships.■ Compulsive stealing.■ Drug and alcohol abuse.Physical Indicators:■ Bruises, scratches or other injuries not consistentwith an accident.■ Itching, soreness, discharge or unexplainedbleeding in the genital area.■ Painful and frequent urination.■ Signs of sexually transmitted infections.■ Difficultly walking or sitting.■ Pregnancy where the identity of the father isvague or secret.■ Recurrent urinary tract infections.■ Persistent headaches or recurrentabdominal pain.■ Unexplained pain in the genital area.Behavioural Indicators:■ Displaying unusual interest in the genitalsof others.■ Over attention to adults of a particular sex.■ Precocious knowledge of sexual matters.■ Promiscuity, repetitious sexuallyprecocious behaviour.■ Sudden changes in mood or behaviour.■ Regressed behaviour for example bed wetting,separation anxiety, insecurity.■ Changes in eating patterns.■ Lack of trust in familiar adults, fear of strangers,fear of men.■ Acting out behaviour. aggression, lying, stealing,unexplained running away, drug or alcohol abuse,suicide attempts.■ Learning problems, unexplained drop in schoolperformance.■ Poor peer relationships, family and/or childappears socially isolated.■ Withdrawn behaviours such as passivity,excessive compliance, depression.14CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 2013

By ensuring that AppropriatePeople are selected to WorkWith ChildrenBy dispelling the Mythsaround Child AbuseMythChild sex offenders are creepy or weird lookingChild sex offenders are dirty old menStrangers pose the biggest threat to childrenWomen never sexually abuse childrenIt only happened once and he promisedit would never happen againThe incidence of child sexual abuse isgrossly exaggerated and is more asensationalised media storyHomosexual men are paedophilesCFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 2013CFA aims to ensure that the most appropriatemembers are selected to become Junior Leaders byhaving a screening and selection process.Further information on this process is available inthe Junior Brigade/Leader Application Kit whichincludes a position description outlining the roles andresponsibilities of a Junior Leader and information onthe Working with Children Check.CFA also aims to ensure that the most appropriatepeople are selected to deliver programs such asFire Safe Kids by providing facilitators with guidanceand training and in the case of JFAIP practitioners, aCriminal Record Check is also required.Some of the myths surrounding child sexual abuseinvolve blaming the victims and/or their carersfor the offence, and minimising the responsibilityof the offender. It is important to remember thatresponsibility for offences always rests squarely andabsolutely with the perpetrator of the crime.Whilst there are reasons why sex offendersperpetrate these crimes, there are never anyexcuses. There are also myths that suggest a childsex offender is somehow identifiable, that theyare creepy or weird looking. This is a dangerousmisunderstanding that can easily be exploited bysomeone looking to have access to children.FactChild sex offenders usually present themselvesvery normally. Most will go to work and participatein the community life without drawing attention tothemselves.Most child sex offenders commit their first offenceduring their teen years and continue until they arecaught. While it is true that most sex offenders aremen, it is inaccurate to characterise them as ‘old’.The traditional image of the ‘stranger’ as the childmolester is mistaken. Victoria Police statistics showthat strangers commit 5% of sexual offences againstchildren. The other 95% of offenders are known totheir victims.Although the majority of sexual offenders are men,women are also known to sexually abuse children.It is rare for sexual offences to be a once offoccurrence, and generally sex offenders are notprosecuted for their offences. Treatment for sexoffenders, while important, has proven so far to havelimited success in preventing re-offending.Most stories of child sexual abuse never becomepublic. As many as 95% of child sex offendersdo not have criminal convictions for their crimes.Approximately 10% of offenders are prosecuted andonly half of those are ever convicted.Whilst some homosexual men do abuse childrenthey are no more likely to abuse children thanheterosexual men.15

What we do know aboutchild abusersThey are as diverse a group as the generalpopulation. They come from all walks of life andsocio-economic groups. They can be male,female, married, single, heterosexual, homosexualor bisexual.They usually commence their abuse in theiradolescence or younger.The majority of physical and sexual abuse happenswithin the family home, or by relatives and closefriends of a family. It is not common for strangers toabuse children.Paedophiles will access children throughorganisations that work with children. Particularlythose organisations that do not have a policy orprocedures in place to protect children.Child sexual abuse does not often occur as a onceoff spur of the moment incident, it is usually the resultof a premeditated grooming procedure.What is Grooming?CFA can do nothing to stop the desire or motivationof a person to sexually abuse a child but it hasput in place measures to make it difficult for thesepeople to have access to our programs and children.Members should not be concerned, or try to spota child abuser. What’s most important is to alwayshave programs supervised by two adults, and in thecase of Juniors, 2 Junior Leaders, and to work withinthe Code of Behaviour for Maintaining aChild Safe Environment.Child sexual abuse is different from other formsof abuse that children may experience in that it isusually premeditated.Offenders will take time to groom their victim.This appears to have two elements:■ Choosing a victim that appeals to the offender.■ Picking someone the offender believes he/shecan safely victimise.Grooming is a well thought out process. It is a dualprocess of building a trusting relationship with thechild and his/her carers, and isolating the child inorder to abuse them.Grooming occurs before the sex offence in order toaccess the child, and after the offence, in order tomaintain access to the child, and ensure the child’ssilence and the carers/adults continued trust.The grooming process can takes weeks, months oryears before the offence occurs.By analysing the RisksWhat types of activities/situations increase thepossibility of abuse?Low/acceptable riskActivities that are considered to be low risk orlimited risk are those which:■ Involve older less dependant and ablebodied children.■ Take place in full view of people inopen environments.■ Have high adult/child ratios.■ Have active parental involvement.■ Do not involve body contact.■ Run shorter sessions.■ Two or more adults supervising groups.■ Training for volunteers concerning child abuseis mandatory.16CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 2013

■ Education/Information about child abuse isprovided to children/parents.■ Services offered to children over 11.Medium level riskActivities that are considered to be medium levelrisk are those where:■ Children are younger and more dependant.■ View of activity is obscured.■ There is minimal supervision.■ There is less parental involvement.■ There are policies and procedures but they arenot actively implemented.■ They are held in external locations(eg excursions, walks).■ There are some physical activities withthe children.■ One adult supervising a group of children.■ Training for volunteers is available butnot mandatory.■ Education/information about child abuse isavailable but not provided to children/parents.■ Services offered to children under 11.CFA will only approve and support Brigades whofollow principles of risk management by ONLYconducting Juniors Programs within the guidelinesof the Chief Officers Standing Orders 3.0 and JVDPGuidebook and ONLY allowing any other contactwith children under the supervision of teachers,parents or adult guardians.High level riskActivities that are considered to be high levelrisk are those which:■ Involve very young children.■ Takes place out of sight.■ Involves bathing or toileting.■ Have low adult/child ratios.■ Have no supervision.■ nclude overnight stays.■ Take place in private homes or in isolated settings.■ There is a lot of physical contact with children.■ One adult supervising one child.■ Training for volunteers is not available.■ Education/Information about child abuse is notavailable to children/parents.■ Services are offered to children of all ages and/orhave disabilities.CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 201317

RESPONSE:By knowing what to do whenChild Abuse is SuspectedWhat if a child discloses abuseto you?Remember: Child abuse will not stop unless adultstake effective action on behalf of the child and reporttheir concerns to the appropriate authorities.What if you suspect a childhas been abused?By having a Process in PlaceWhere do I go for advice?Please see flow chart‘ on page 23.Tell the child that you believe them.Make it clear that whatever has happened is nottheir fault.Reassure the child that they did the right thing intelling you. Be mindful that many abusers threatenthe child to prevent disclosure. Do everythingpossible to comfort and reassure the child.Explain what action you will take next. Do not makepromises that you will not be able to keep, norpromise the child confidentiality. The child needssomeone to act on their behalf, they do not needsomeone to keep their secret.Be clear about your role. If you have a reasonablesuspicion, report your concerns. It is not yourresponsibility to prove the case.Ensure the child is safe (if in your care).Maintain the safety of other children/young peopleas appropriate.Obtain the following information:■ The child’s name, age and address.■ Your reason for suspecting abuse has occurred(eg information, injuries, observed behaviour).■ Your assessment of the immediate danger tothe child. (To be provided where appropriateto the CFA, Police and/or the Department ofHuman Services).Do not interview the child/young person in anywaybeyond gaining an elementary understanding of thereportable issue.You have a number of options:■ Speak to your OIC/Captain.■ Contact your Operations Officer/Manager/HR Manager.■ Contact the Department of Human Services or thePolice to seek advice on how to proceed or makea report.Each Brigade, program and situation is different,therefore making it very difficult to develop a guidingdocument to cover all possibilities. CFA will provideadvice to individuals and Brigades on how toappropriately deal with each situation as it arises.Given the sensitivity of child abuse issues andthe negative repercussions that may occur at alocal level, local management in the first instancecan be bypassed with all enquires directed to theOperations Manager.18CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 2013

CFA is not a child protection agency, all allegationsof child abuse are dealt with by the police and/or theDepartment of Human Services.However CFA has a duty of care for all its membersand should be informed of any inappropriatebehaviour by members so that it can act.The advice you may be given may simply beadvice and support, or it may require that the CFAtake action.Child sexual and physical abuse is a criminaloffence and should not under any circumstances be“handled” by a Brigade.A member who suspects another member or whohas received information regarding abuse from achild should report this as soon as possible to theCFA who will then assist the member of the mostappropriate course of action.If the child is in immediate danger you shouldcontact the Police or “000”.If a child/young person discloses abuse to a memberwhere the perpetrator is not a CFA member and thealleged abuse has not occurred as part of CFA achild tells you they are being abused by their schoolteacher or a family member] the member can seekadvice from CFA or contact the Department ofHuman Services directly on the numbers provided.Do not under any circumstances undertake childabuse or child sexual abuse investigations.Do not discuss the situation with anyone who doesnot need to know.Many people do not report suspected incidents ofchild abuse, or just gut feelings that something isn’tright, just in case they are wrong.You may be wrong, but you cannot afford to take thechance of not discussing your concerns.How would you feel if something had happened orwas happening to a child and you did nothing aboutyour suspicions?It is also important to remember that someallegations can be false. As such, investigationsshould ensure due process and natural justice areserved and that all parties are dealt with sensitively.The processes developed by the CFA not only aimto protect children/young people from abuse but allCFA members, by ensuring that all allegations ofabuse are handled quickly with emphasis on fairnessjustice and equity for all.Allegations handled outside of the Brigade ensuresprivacy for all alleged victims/perpetrators until athorough investigation can be carried out.CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 201319

Making a ReportDo I have reasonable grounds?What proof do I need?Can a person be sued if theymake a report that isn’t true?Malicious ReportingCan a person make areport anonymously?No investigation should be undertaken by theBrigade or by the member who has had anallegation made against them. Advice will be givenon the appropriate level of consultation with theaccused member, the child or their parents.Police investigations generally prefer that nocommunication should be entered into with theparties involved as it could taint evidence or not behandled appropriately, jeopardising any case thatmay arise.You may have a suspicion on reasonablegrounds when:■ A child tells you he or she has been abused.■ Someone tells you a child has been abused.■ A child tells you he or she knows someone whohas been abused (sometimes a child will betalking about themselves).■ Your own observation of a particular child’sbehaviour and/or injuries, and your knowledgeof children generally, leads you to suspect thatabuse is occurring.■ Reasonable grounds. can be thought of as thebehaviours, observations, facts and informationthat leads a person to form a belief.■ Form a belief, the notion of forming a belief canbe described as an inclination to accept, ratherthan reject the proposition that the child has beenabused is telling the truth.A person making a report does not need to provethat abuse has taken place, they only need to havereasonable grounds.If the report is made in good faith then the notifiercannot be held legally Liable regardless of theoutcome of the notification. as stated in Section 189Children, Youth and Families Act 2005.Malicious false reporting is a serious offence andanyone who knowingly falsely accuses or maliciouslycreates rumours against another member may facedisciplinary charges, which could lead to expulsionfrom the CFA and in some cases criminal charges.Yes. If you have concerns about the safety andwelfare of a child or the actions and behaviour of anadult, you can contact the Police and make a report.You do not have to leave your name. For CFA torespond to allegations it will require personal detailsof the member making the report.20CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 2013

If I do leave my name will people findout it was me who made the report?The notifier does not need permission from theparents to notify nor is it necessary to tellthe child or the child’s family.Do I have to make a report?Mandatory ReportingThe common law has always required peopleto report serious criminal activity to enforcementauthorities. Failure to report serious criminalactivity is itself a common law offence. A personis guilty of the offence if knowing that a felonyhas been committed, he or she fails to disclosehis or her knowledge to those responsible for theadministration of justice.What information needs to be givento make a report to CFA?What will happen once a reporthas been made?Under section 67 of the Victorian Children andYoung Persons Act 1989 it is specifically prohibitedto disclose the identification of the person whohas made an allegation of suspected or knownchild abuse.In accordance with the legislation, the identity of thenotifier will remain confidential unless:■ The notifier chooses to inform the child and/orfamily of the notification.■ The notifier consents in writing to their identity asthe notifier being disclosed.■ The court decides that it needs this information inorder to ensure the safety and wellbeing ofthe child.■ The court decides that in the interests of justicethe evidence needs to be given.It is not general practice for the Children’s Courtto seek information regarding the identification ofthe notifier.The Law states that mandated professionals mustreport abuse if in the course of their work theybelieve that on reasonable grounds, the child is inneed of protection from abuse.Under sections 190 and 191 of the Children, Youthand Families Act 2005 mandated professionals are:■ Primary and Secondary Teachers and Principals.■ Doctors, Nurses.■ Police.Pastoral Carer and community volunteers are not,however they have a duty of care to take action ifthey are concerned about a child.Anyone can make a notification to the Department ofHuman Services or the Police if they believe a childis in need of protection. The person is not expectedto prove the abuse.■ Your name and Brigade.■ The name of the alleged perpetrator if known.■ The child’s name.■ Your reason for suspecting abuse has occurred(eg information, injuries, observed behaviour).■ Your assessment of the immediate danger tothe child.When a report has been made to the OperationsManager, they will determine the most appropriatecourse of action, via a preliminary investigation.This may include further discussion with police orDepartment of Human Services.The Operations Manager will act in accordance withthe CFA Volunteer Discipline Policy under Section182 of the Children, Youth and Families Act 2005.CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 201321

Actions may include a warning, suspension pendinginvestigation or in serious cases termination of CFAMembership.A proper investigation will need to be undertakento ensure the allegations are not false, vexatious ormisconceived.If the accused is in the position of Junior Leader orChildren’s/Youth Program deliverer they may beadvised to stand down until the investigation hasbeen completed.The Operations Manager will ensure that the child/young person and their parents are provided withsupport by CFA as appropriate.CFA will provide a member who has had anallegation made against them with an externalcounsellor for their support if requested.If CFA is notified by the Department of Justice inaccordance with the Working with Children Act, thata member has been issued with a negative notice(suspension of the Working with Children Card).That member will receive notification from theOperations Manager and will be required tocease any contact with children in “Child relatedwork” whilst participating in CFA. If the memberis an Endorsed Junior Leader, they will no longerbe able to supervise Junior Brigade activitiesuntil the outcome of the investigation has beenconducted and the CFA has been advised in writingby Department of Justice as to the reissue orpermanent removal of the members Working withChildren Card.22CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 2013

CFA CHILD PROTECTIONCOMPLAINT RESOLUTION PROCEDURECFA Member has a child protectioncomplaint/issueCFA Member to refer to CFA Child ProtectionInformation BookletComplaint/issueresolvedComplaint/issue not resolvedMatter involvescriminalallegationsCFA Member consults with OIC/Captain or OperationsOfficer who provides information and advice on theoptions to resolve the issues and channels of redressIssue/matterreferred toOperationsManagerHas the issuebeen resolvedNOHas the issuebeen resolvedYESIssue relates to orbreaches CFA legislation,Corporate policy orCOSO’SIssue resolved viacurrent CFA policies andprocedures (may includeconsultation/advice withVolunteer Services OTV)Is issue of acriminal nature?Inform Volunteer Services OTV for Compliancewith Working With Children Check, ProgramManagement and Internal Reporting ProcessesIssue lodged withPolice & Department ofHuman ServicesEnd of matterCFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 2013

CFA Headquarters 8 Lakeside Drive, Burwood East, VIC 3151 Telephone 9262 8444 Facsimile 9264 6200CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection PolicyInformation Booklet24CFA Children/ Young Persons Protection Policy Information BookletEdition 2 – May 2013