8.3.2.6. CYRMS – Receiving and Reporting Disclosures or Suspicions of Harm

The SLSQ Receiving and Reporting Disclosures or Suspicions of Harm Policy provides procedures for:

• handling disclosures, allegations and/or suspicions of harm, and
• managing breaches of your risk management strategy and code of conduct.
  

This policy includes:

• a distinction between what is a disclosure, allegation or suspicion of harm and what is a breach of the risk management strategy
• clear guidelines in relation to how these issues will be managed including consequences for breaches
• clear guidelines on how all concerned parties will be supported in the instance of a breach or allegation of harm to a child.
  

Why?
Children and young people can only be protected from harm if it is reported and dealt with quickly and effectively. Therefore surf lifesaving affiliates must have policies and procedures in place to ensure staff/ volunteer officers respond as quickly as possible to an allegation or suspicion of harm, or a breach of the CYRMS. Having clear policies in relation to this matter will help ensure the best interests of the child or young person is always the first priority.

MS04 – Reviewing & Reporting Disclosures of Harm Policy

The aim of this SLSQ policy and supporting procedures are to assist members/ staff when confronted with disclosures or suspicions of harm, to children and young people. It will enable staff/ members to respond professionally, and as quickly as possible, and in the best interests of the child or young person, under the age of 18, who is the subject of alleged harm.
SLSQ recognises that children and young people are vulnerable members of the community and that extra measures must be taken to protect and support them.

What is a suspicion of harm?
You can suspect harm if:

• you are concerned about significant changes in behaviour or the presence of new unexplained and suspicious injuries.
  

What is a disclosure of harm?
A disclosure of harm occurs when someone, including a child, tells you about the harm that has happened or is likely to happen.