The Statement of Commitment by Jesus Youth Australia
JY Australia has zero tolerance for child and/or vulnerable adult abuse and exploitation. JY Australia embeds principles of child and vulnerable person safeguarding in its leadership, governance, and culture.
JY Australia is committed to:
- the care, nurture of, and respectful ministry to all, especially minors and vulnerable persons.
- the safeguarding of all, especially minors and vulnerable persons, and the establishment of safe, caring communities which provide a loving environment where there is an informed vigilance as to the dangers of abuse.
- a zero-tolerance policy in relation to any form of abuse of minors and vulnerable persons and to prompt action.
JY Australia will:
- ensure efficient functioning of a Board of Safeguarding constituted with a view to safeguarding the dignity of minors and vulnerable persons in the Movement and to address any grievances received in this regard.
- familiarize all the members of the Movement with the policies and procedures outlined in this document.
- create an awareness among minors and vulnerable persons of the necessary skills and knowledge to understand their rights to maintain personal safety and wellbeing.
- ensure transparency in the decision-making with parents/guardians where it will not compromise the safety of minors and vulnerable adults.
- respond to every complaint of abuse in accordance with these policies and procedures.
- seek to offer informed and compassionate pastoral care to those who have suffered abuse and, if needed, to their family members.
- take prompt and appropriate disciplinary and remedial measures against any member of JY Australia who has committed abuse against a minor or vulnerable person, while offering suitable pastoral care, including supervision and referral to the appropriate authorities.
- follow the legislations of the respective state or Territory, The National Principles for Child Safe organisations set by Commonwealth of Australia, National Catholic Safeguarding Standards set by Australian Catholic Safeguarding Ltd (ACSL) and recognised good practices.