Territory Families investigates claim shelter staff were told not to report abuse

WORKERS at a domestic violence shelter have allegedly been told to report any child protection issues to a manager in case they need to be “watered down” before they go to Territory Families

WORKERS at a domestic violence shelter have allegedly been told to report any child protection issues to a manager in case they need to be “watered down” before they go to Territory Families.

Territory Families Minister Dale Wakefield confirmed the department was following up a complaint made about the Darwin Aboriginal Islander Womens’ Shelter (DAIWS).

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In the Northern Territory, anyone must make a report if they reasonably believe a child has been harmed or exploited, or that a child is likely to be harmed or exploited.

Ms Wakefield said while agencies may have internal policies and procedures regarding reporting, these were not meant to prevent staff from making reports if necessary.

“I have been advised of a complaint regarding the reporting of child protection issues at DAIWS. Territory Families is following this up in accordance with the complaints process,” she said.

“As part of DAIWS’ contract with the Territory Government, DAIWS must comply with mandatory reporting laws in regards to child harm and exploitation, and domestic and family violence. Territory Families meets with providers regarding their contractual arrangements including when concerns are raised.”

Ms Wakefield said Territory Families did not monitor children in domestic violence shelters as they were effectively in their parent’s care, however shelter providers were still required to report any cases of abuse they saw.

Under NT law, a reporting person does not need proof of harm or abuse to report their concerns — they just need a reasonable belief that a child has been harmed or is likely to be harmed.

If someone is worried about neglect or harm to a child but is not sure if it’s reportable they can talk it through with professional staff at the Child Abuse Hotline on 1800 700 250.

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Reporters are safeguarded under the law from legal or professional liability if they make a report in good faith.

DAIWS general manager Regina Bennett said the allegations were “ridiculous”.

“DAIWS has policies, procedures and a processes in place in regards to mandatory child protection reporting. We take the welfare and care of the women and children that we work with as part of our service extremely seriously,” she said.

“We have a strong working relationship with Territory Families and we will continue to work closely together to provide support services for children, women and families affected by domestic and family violence. There is no current investigation into our organisation by Territory Families.”