CHILD PROTECTION CODE OF CONDUCT

Staff and others must never:

• hit or otherwise physically assault or physically abuse children

• develop physical/sexual relationships with children

• develop relationships with children which could in any way be deemed exploitative or abusive

• act in ways that may be abusive or may place a child at risk of abuse.

• use language, make suggestions or offer advice which is inappropriate, offensive or abusive

• behave physically in a manner which is inappropriate or sexually provocative

• have a child/children with whom they are working to stay overnight at their home unsupervised

• sleep in the same room or bed as a child with whom they are working

• do things for children of a personal nature that they can do for themselves

• condone, or participate in, behaviour of children which is illegal, unsafe or abusive

• act in ways intended to shame, humiliate, belittle or degrade children, or otherwise perpetrate any form of emotional abuse

• discriminate against, show differential treatment, or favour particular children to the

exclusion of others.

• This is not an exhaustive or exclusive list. The principle is that staff should avoid actions or

behaviour which may constitute poor practice or potentially abusive behaviour.

It is important for all staff and others in contact with children to:

• be aware of situations which may present risks and manage these

• plan and organise the work and the workplace so as to minimise risks

• as far as possible, be visible in working with children

• ensure that a culture of openness exists to enable any issues or concerns to be raised and

discussed

• ensure that a sense of accountability exists between staff so that poor practice or potentially abusive behaviour does not go unchallenged

• talk to children about their contact with staff or others and encourage them to raise any

concerns

• empower children - discuss with them their rights, what is acceptable and unacceptable,

and what they can do if there is a problem.

In general it is inappropriate to:

• spend excessive time alone with children away from others

• take children to your home, especially where they will be alone with you.