Safeguarding Children & Vulnerable People Handbook

3.4 W hat happens after you have reported? Once you have made your report the following steps will be taken: If the person against whom the allegation is being made is a St John SA Member, they will be removed from service immediately pending investigation An appropriately trained senior employee will be appointed as the case manager to act as liaison and to provide support between St John SA and any suspended member The Human Resources Manager or GM, Operational Services will be responsible for: management of the case file and actions (including informing only those people who need to know) overseeing the investigation process providing support for the alleged victim proving support for the reporter and alleged offender (when a member) communication and support to family members. The next steps will be undertaken by or in consultation with the appropriate authorities When the matter is referred to SAPOL, prompt investigation will occur, but not so as to interfere with SAPOL investigations Those involved will be provided appropriate support and counselling . Confidentiality and Communication All allegations are to be treated in the strictest confidence. This includes: The alleged victim: the right of the child or vulnerable person to confidentiality will be observed, protected and supported the identity of the child or vulnerable person will be treated in strictest confidence. In the case of suspected child abuse liaison with Families SA and SAPOL throughout the process will occur

The alleged victim’s family: the right of the family to have their concerns acted upon and resolved. The alleged offender; the right of the alleged offender to have a fair process The person making the notification; the right for confidentiality and support. Only those people who need to know will be informed of an allegation. Any such information will be held in the strictest confidence by those involved. Any breeches of confidentiality will be treated seriously and disciplinary action may be taken in those circumstances. 3.5 W hen and how to notify of breaches of the Child & Vulnerable Persons’ Policy and procedures: Members have a responsibility to notify the CVPO of all breaches of the policy and procedures outlined with this handbook. This ensures a continuous and positive culture of improvement and learning. It is important in the first instance when seeing a breach of policy or procedure to immediately advise the member involved of your concerns. If the member does not react appropriately to your counsel, nor do they not adjust what they are doing, or they have to be reminded on more than one occasion, or you have any doubt around the innocence of the behaviour, report this immediately to the CVPO. Notification of breaches may lead to a number of actions including; counselling the person who made the breach and ensuring they understand their responsibilities, providing training to individuals or teams, reviewing procedures as well as providing support and advice. Serious breaches or recurring breaches may result in a formal report and disciplinary action being taken.

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Member Handbook July 2016 St John Ambulance SA Inc