Safeguarding Children & Vulnerable People Handbook

SECTION TWO SAFE PRACTICES IN ACTION CONT’D

2.8 Risk Assessment and Management

That adults will listen to them and believe them if they reveal a secret Of their right to say ‘no’ if someone, even someone they know well, tries to touch them in a way that frightens or confuses them…” (St John Ambulance UK, 2001:26) Of the difference between feeling safe and feeling uncomfortable or scared Not to hitch-hike To travel with friends rather than alone. 2.6 Social Media policy St John SA has a policy to support members on how to utilise social media in the context of their duties. This can be accessed via the members area/portal of www.stjohnsa.com.au 2.7 I ncident, Injury and Hazard reporting All members have a responsibility for the timely reporting of all incidents by following St John SA’s incident management procedures. This relates to all incidents related to child and vulnerable persons protection as well as an injury or hazard. An incident/injury/hazard form must be completed for all: Incidents involving an injury that may or may not require medical attention Incidents causing damage to vehicles, property or equipment Hazards identified or near miss incidents, even those that do not cause injury or damage but have the capability to do so.

Undertaking a risk assessment before any activity is standard practice at St John SA and reduces the likelihood and rate of incidents. A risk assessment is a careful examination of what could cause harm, so that you can weigh up whether you have taken sufficient precautions, or should do more to prevent it. The aim is to try and make sure no one suffers harm. A hazard is anything which can cause harm. Risk is the likelihood or chance of it happening. The basic principles of making a risk assessment: Look at the venue, the activity and its suitability for proposed participants. Include the detail of any action to be taken in the event of an incident occurring Undertake a risk assessment for every activity. If it is a regular activity, the risk assessment will need to be reviewed regularly and updated as required Inform and obtain permission from those with parental or caring responsibilities for the activities being organised Ensure that appropriate supervision is in place Ensure that those with responsibility for children or vulnerable adults adhere to the required supervision ratios Give clear guidance on St John SA policy to any organisations and external activity providers. 2.9 M anagement of records, St John SA has a policies and procedures covering the management and storage of personal information and records. This ensures that all members understand what information needs to be recorded and how these records are secured, stored and eventually disposed of. The personal information of children and vulnerable persons is kept confidential and is managed appropriately. confidentiality and sharing information

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Member Handbook July 2016 St John Ambulance SA Inc