Skill Up Psychology is committed to child safety and is a priority for Skill Up Psychology. Skill Up Psychology are responsible for promoting safety and wellbeing for all and are respectful, are inclusive and accepting of all.

Mandatory reporting of child abuse and neglect is determined by state legislation and Psychologists as a profession are mandated to report (of relevance) in Victoria (since March 2019). A related requirement when working with children includes the need to obtain a government Working with Children Check.

Skill Up Psychologists decide whether a threshold of reasonable belief or suspicion has been reached regarding a child needing to be protected. If the information received that a child is at risk of abuse, then Skill Up Psychology will inform the relevant agency. In relation to Mandatory reporting – DFFH Service Providers – ‘A child may be in need of protection if they have experienced or are at risk of significant harm, and their parents have not protected, or are unlikely to protect them from that harm’. ‘Mandatory reporters are required to report in relation to significant harm as a result of physical injury or sexual abuse’. Psychologist can report in relation to other types of significant harm and are educated on areas of considerations. Skill Up promote wellbeing and safety and maintain a professional and high ethical standard.

To assist Skill Up Psychologists:

• Professional Development opportunities in child safety, wellbeing, mental health, parent education, child development, and other areas as required

• Education regarding a step-by-step guide to making a report to Child Protection or The Orange Door or other organisations.

• Seek supervision support if required.

• Document accordingly.

• Consult APS Advisory if required.

• Review information as required

Skill Up Psychology also has a Code of Conduct that promotes and follows expected behaviours around children and adults and aware of unacceptable behaviours. If expected behaviours are not followed this can result appropriate investigation and if required disciplinary and where required reporting action.

All appropriate and professional standards are always required for children and adults. All Skill Up Staff are aware of what they will and will not engage in and is reviewed accordingly.