Gateway Child Safe Document

Gateway Baptist Church’s philosophy of care is based upon the conviction that we must care for our children in ways that respect their dignity and value as unique individuals in a Christ-like manner. To that end, our Policies and Procedures aim to promote the well being of children and young people under our care and to protect them from harm. Any behaviours which jeopardise this will not be tolerated.

We have developed and implemented a Child Protection Risk Management Strategy as part of providing a safe church environment for all children and young people. Gateway Baptist Church is committed to complying with these requirements out of care for the young people we are responsible for, as well as meeting the legislative requirements.

Gateway Baptist Church supports the rights of children and young people and is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment directed at ensuring their safety, wellbeing and protection from harm.

There is a rigorous recruitment process for all employees and volunteers within our Generations Ministries which requires being formally interviewed through the assessment of the relevant leadership application form, providing two referees and holding a current Blue Card (If over 18). It is a requirement of serving that they have a full understanding of all our policies and procedures within our Under 18’s ministries.  Our staff and volunteers also agree to abide by our policies and procedures and code of conduct at all times.

Our staff and volunteer code of conduct includes having a genuine care for children and young people and appreciating their opinions, advocating for relevant child and youth issues, promoting children’s development through encouragement and praise and conducting themselves in a way the is reflective of Christian morals and values.

Gateway Baptist Church’s Child Protection Policy is regularly updated in accordance with any relevant legislation changes and volunteers and staff are provided with ongoing training.

The known, or reasonably suspected, presence of harm to a child or young person, in the form of sexual, psychological, emotional or physical abuse constitutes a reportable incident and must be disclosed to the relevant government authority.  All Team Leaders will report disclosures or reasonable suspicions of child abuse to their supervising Pastor who will follow the Harm Notification Procedure.

In the event of any concerns or queries, or to report a suspicion of harm see one of our pastors or contact us at childsafety@gatewaybaptist.com.au

Safety is of fundamental importance as we seek to nurture and encourage children and young people to grow in the knowledge that God loves and cares for them.