Survivor Support
Restorative Engagement
Scouts NSW introduced a Restorative Engagement Program in June 2016, offering a personal or written apology, as well as support to access counselling, guided by the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. Since that time, the Chief Commissioner and Chief Executive have met with survivors to make personal apologies. They are also willing to meet with anyone else in this regard who wishes.
All inquiries about restorative engagement will be directed in confidence to the appropriate person in our team — please call (02) 9735 9000.
National Redress Scheme
Scouts NSW has consistently supported the National Redress Scheme. It provides a consistent and independent means of providing acknowledgement and support to the people concerned. In May 2018, Scouts NSW announced its intention to opt into the Scheme – you can read details of that here. The Scheme commenced on 1 July 2018 and will run for 10 years.
The National Redress Scheme comprises of three components:
- Access to counselling and psychological care
- a direct personal response — such as an apology from the responsible institution(s) for applicants who want this
- a monetary payment.
Guiding Principles for Responding to Claims for Compensation Concerning Allegations of Child Sexual Abuse
In June 2017, the Scouts NSW Board of Directors approved a set of guiding principles that outline the way in which Scouts NSW will respond to claims for compensation. To find out more about the guidelines, click here.
To Make a Claim to the National Redress Scheme
If you wish to make a claim with the National Redress Scheme, please visit nationalredress.gov.au
More Information
If you would like more information about the Scheme, please visit nationalredress.gov.au or call the National Redress Scheme Information Line on 1800 737 377.
Child Safety in Scouting
Scouts NSW is committed to maintaining a culture where young people feel safe and empowered to speak up. Our priority continues to be on ensuring the wellbeing of all children and young adults. Scouts NSW does not tolerate abuse of any kind, and our policy is to immediately report any allegations of child abuse directly to the police. Our Adult Leaders have the appropriate Working with Children Checks in place and undertake mandatory training in child safe practices on an ongoing basis.
Scouts NSW continue to enhance our policies and procedures around child safety in response to evolving best practise and relevant Government legislation and regulation. To find out more about Child Safe Scouting, please click here.
Additional Support Services
If you feel you need support, the following organisations are there to help.
- Blue Knot Helpline — 1300 657 380 or helpline@blueknot.org.au or blueknot.org.au/helpline
- Lifeline — 13 14 11 or lifeline.org.au
- Men's Line Australia — 1300 789 978
- Beyond Blue — 1300 224 636 or beyondblue.org.au
- Kids Helpline — 1800 551 800 or kidshelpline.com.au
