At the Eye and Ear, we have a Statement of Commitment to Child Safety which details our dedication to ensuring children and young people feel safe at our hospital.
A message for children and young people
At the Eye and Ear, we make sure you:
Feel safe
Are listened to
Are treated kindly/nicely
Have your privacy protected
Get clear information
We want you to feel happy and comfortable at the Eye and Ear. Please ask questions and tell us what you think. You have rights to protect you from harm and to get safe care. If you ever feel unsafe, please tell us.
It’s okay to say NO to anything that makes you feel worried or scared. Tell us if you don’t feel safe or if something hurt you. If your healthcare rights are not met, talk to a staff member, a trusted adult, or call Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800. Your safety is our top priority, and we will listen to you.
Raising concerns about child safety
What if an adult is breaking the rules?
If there is an emergency or and you or someone else is in danger, call the police on Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Or, tell an adult you trust. This might be a parent, carer, another adult in your family, a teacher, coach or any other adult that you trust.
They can get help so that you can stay safe. If they don’t help you, tell another adult you trust or you can contact the Commission on 1300 78 29 78 for information and assistance.
You can also call the Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 at any time for any reason.
What can I do if I am not sure my child is safe?
Take action if you are concerned if we’re not keeping your child or other children safe.
Talk to someone senior at the hospital. Tell them what you are worried about and try to find a solution together.
If the Eye and Ear does not address your concerns, contact our regulator the Department of Health:
The Commission has information about regulators because they work with them to ensure compliance by all organisations with the Standards.
Child Safe Standards
The Child Safe Standards are a set of policies, procedures and practices that organisations, like the Eye and Ear, need have so we can keep children and young people safe. There are 11 Child Safe Standards organisations must meet:
Standard 1 – Organisations establish a culturally safe environment in which the diverse and unique identities and experiences of Aboriginal children and young people are respected and valued
Standard 2– Child safety and wellbeing is embedded in organisational leadership, governance and culture
Standard 3 – Children and young people are empowered about their rights, participate in decisions affecting them and are taken seriously
Standard 4– Families and communities are informed and involved in promoting child safety and wellbeing
Standard 5– Equity is upheld and diverse needs respected in policy and practice
Standard 6 – People working with children and young people are suitable and supported to reflect child safety and wellbeing values in practice
Standard 7 – Processes for complaints and concerns are child-focused
Standard 8 – Staff and volunteers are equipped with the knowledge, skills and awareness to keep children and young people safe through ongoing education and training
Standard 9– Physical and online environments promote safety and wellbeing while minimising the opportunity for children and young people to be harmed
Standard 10 – Implementation of the Child Safe Standards is regularly reviewed and improved
Standard 11– Policies and procedures document how the organisation is safe for children and young people
