Child Protection Policy

 

  1. Introduction

Omnia Mental Health Clinic, based in the Republic of Ireland, is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of children, young people, and vulnerable individuals participating in our programs and services. This Child Protection Policy underscores our commitment to safeguarding children from harm and abuse.

  1. Legislative Framework

Our child protection policy is aligned with the Republic of Ireland legislation, including but not limited to:

  • Children First Act 2015
  • National Vetting Bureau (Children and Vulnerable Persons) Acts 2012 to 2016
  • Children (Amendment) Act 2015
  • Our Duty to Care: The Principles of Good Practice for the Protection of Children and Young People (Children First National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children)
  1. Key Principles
  • Best Interests of the Child: The best interests, safety, and welfare of the child are paramount.
  • Prevention: We are committed to taking all reasonable steps to prevent harm to children and protect them from abuse.
  • Child Empowerment: Respecting the rights of children, we empower them to participate in decisions that affect them.
  • Openness and Transparency: We maintain a commitment to openness and transparency in our child protection efforts.
  1. Designated Liaison Person (DLP)

Omnia Mental Health Clinic has appointed a Designated Liaison Person (DLP) responsible for managing child protection issues. The DLP is:

Clinic Manager

Gerda Paleviciute

gerda@omniamentalhealth.com

  1. Recruitment and Vetting
  • All staff, volunteers, and contractors who engage with children undergo a comprehensive recruitment process.
  • National Vetting Bureau checks, in accordance with relevant legislation, are conducted for all personnel.
  1. Training and Awareness
  • Regular child protection training and updates on relevant legislation are provided to all staff and volunteers.
  • Awareness of signs and indicators of child abuse or neglect is actively promoted among all personnel.
  1. Reporting Procedures
  • Any concerns or suspicions of child abuse or neglect are reported to the DLP immediately.
  • The DLP follows established reporting procedures outlined in the Children First Act 2015.
  • Code of Conduct
  • A code of conduct, outlining appropriate behaviour and interaction with children, is adhered to by all staff, volunteers, and representatives.
  1. Confidentiality

Information related to child protection concerns is handled with utmost confidentiality, shared only with individuals requiring such information.

  1. Review and Monitoring
  • Regular reviews of this policy ensure compliance with legislation and best practices.
  • Periodic risk assessments identify and address potential areas of concern.
  1. Communication with Parents/Guardians
  • Parents/guardians are informed about the child protection policy and encouraged to provide feedback.
  • Any child protection concerns involving their child are communicated in a sensitive and timely manner.

 

The above is in place to review yearly. 

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