Protection of minors in cultural institutions – what do you need to know?
The safety of children and young people is a priority for every cultural institution. Museums, libraries, cultural centers and theaters organize a large number of classes, workshops or events in which juveniles participate. Accordingly, the law requires these institutions to implement appropriate security standards. How to prepare for this? What documents are needed? Is it necessary to amend contracts with contractors? We answer these questions below.
Who must implement standards for the protection of minors?
Cultural institutions that organize events and activities for children are required to implement rules for the protection of children’s minors. This includes:
• community centers,
• libraries,
• museums,
• theaters,
• art galleries,
• science and education centers.
Any institution whose employees or associates come into contact with children should implement appropriate procedures and documents.
How to prepare for the implementation of standards for the protection of minors?
To ensure compliance and create a safe environment for children, it is worth taking several steps:
1. Identify risks – it is worth starting by analyzing what situations in the facility may cause danger to children (e.g. lack of supervision of participants in activities, lack of rules and regulations).
2. Develop standards for the protection of minors – create a document that clearly defines the rules of conduct of staff and associates when dealing with minors.
3. Train staff – all employees and co-workers should know how to react in emergency situations and what their legal responsibilities are.
4. Establish procedures for reporting troubling situations – everyone should know where and how to report suspected violations of children’s rights. It is also a good idea to designate a person responsible for implementing and monitoring compliance with these rules.
What documents should be prepared?
Any cultural institution that wants to meet legal requirements should prepare several key documents:
• Policy – standards for the protection of minors – describing the rules and standards for dealing with minors in the institution.
• Rules and regulations for children’s activities and events – clearly defining the rules of participation and the responsibilities of organizers and caregivers.
• Procedures for reporting alarming situations – so that employees know how to respond to suspected violations of children’s rights.
– Declarations of non-criminal conviction – required for those working with children, in accordance with the Law on Prevention of Sexual Offenses.
• Consents of parents/legal guardians – for the child’s participation in activities and for the processing of personal data.
Is it necessary to amend contracts with contractors and subcontractors?
Yes, cultural institutions working with those who conduct workshops, animation or other activities for children should update their contracts, adding to them:
• Commitment to the policy for the protection of minors – each contractor should comply with the adopted policy.
• Non-criminal record clause – instructors should provide a statement that they are not listed in the National Criminal Register and Sex Offender Register.
• Procedures for reporting troubling situations – contractors should know to whom to report suspected violations.
Such contractual changes help avoid legal problems and increase the safety of participants in the activities.
Cultural institutions that hold events for children must implement standards for the protection of juveniles. This requires the development of child protection policies, appropriate by-laws and procedures, as well as staff training. It is also crucial to adjust contracts with contractors. This will ensure that children can enjoy the cultural offerings in a safe environment.