Safer Centres began life as three sisters with nothing more than a frustration and an absolute determination to ensure kids are safe and protected in every education and care setting.
Between us, we have 10 kids ranging from newborn to 12 years of age. We have experienced a range of child care services (0-6 years) across Australia and participated in many kids programs in churches and other organisations (holiday programs, after-school activities). We have personally witnessed differing levels of safety compliance and awareness by operators, directors and facilitators across these services.
We were deeply affected by the revolving news stories about children being harmed in child care settings and institutions like churches and after-school programs. As parents, we don't understand why we can't automatically trust that a service for children is a safe place for them. Even in recent criminal cases, several approved child care providers and established Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) programs unknowingly hired casual employees charged with child related offences involving kids in their care — it is shocking to hear established services (trusted by many families) had loopholes that allowed dangerous individuals to take advantage of vulnerable kids. As parents, we feel compelled to do something.
As a community, we simply have to do better and can't simply rely on better government policies/laws to effect change. We believe practical changes in the way services think and operate is necessary to build a child safe culture.
Personally, Hazel in her time as the Kids Church Pastor for Revive Church Sydney established robust safety measures in a church setting to ensure the safety of children and volunteers during kids programs. It is important that churches (no matter the size) understand that operationally, practical measures can be implemented each week during Sunday school programs to prevent the risk of harm. Safer Centres will provide valuable practical insights to churches to ensure the protection of children trusted in their care.
With significant experience across education, childcare regulation, law, compliance and government, Safer Centres will provide a bespoke, independent service that works closely with providers to instill confidence in their services and build trust with families.
Our Mission
Safety for children. Confidence for centres. Trust for families.