The parishes of the Anglican Diocese of Newcastle support the active participation of children and vulnerable people in a wide range of activities including church services, messy church, music programs, play groups, youth groups, children’s events, study and support groups.
We listen to the views of children and vulnerable people, respect what they say and involve them when we make decisions, especially about matters that will directly affect them.
We will communicate our commitment to children and vulnerable people in ways that are accessible by them.
We will use the Office of the Children Guardian SAFE themes of safe spaces, the undies rule, recognising your feelings and finding five people kids can turn to if they feel sad, scared or upset in assisting young children develop their protective behaviours as a situational prevention approach to protecting children by attempting to make it more difficult for abusers to engage in inappropriate behaviour and increasing the chances of them getting caught. (https://www.kidsguardian.nsw.gov.au/child-safe-organisations/safe-series)
We will promote a parish culture of listening to children. (Download Children’s Participation Booklet here)
Policy reviewed – 5 July 2020