The Carmelite Order is committed to child centred practice, that is, a way of working that puts the best interests of the child at the core. It emphasises and supports the concept that the best interests of the child are of paramount importance.

This is done by:

• Creating a child-friendly environment.
• Valuing children and demonstrating respect for them.
• Listening to them and taking their views seriously.
• Involving them in decision making, in a manner appropriate to their age and stage of development.
• Obtaining their consent to be involved in activities and to be photographed/videoed and/or the use of these images.
• Consulting and listening to children about the activities/services/programmes with which they will be involved.
• Seeking children’s feedback or evaluation of a service.
• Having child-friendly methods in place to support implementation of safeguarding policies and procedures with children.

Before we engage in any activity with children, it is important that we have done all that is possible to create safe environments in which children can participate, develop and reach their potential. All activities must be planned and suited to the needs, wishes and age profile of the group. The following policies and procedures have been designed to facilitate and guide this.