Survivor Support

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Restorative Engagement

Scouts NSW introduced its Restorative Engagement Program in June 2016 which offers a personal or written apology, as well as support to access counselling and was guided by the recommendations of the Royal Commission.

Since that time, the Chief Commissioner and Chief Executive have met with several survivors, to make personal apologies. They are also willing to meet with anyone else who wishes to meet with us.

We welcome all inquiries about restorative engagement which will be directed to the appropriate person in our team to respond. To contact Scouts NSW, please call 02 9735 9000.

National Redress Scheme

A key recommendation of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse was the establishment of a National Redress Scheme.  Scouts NSW has consistently supported the establishment of a National Redress Scheme as it provides, amongst other benefits, a consistent and independent means of providing acknowledgement and support to people who experienced institutional child sexual abuse.  Scouts NSW announced on 31 May 2018 its intention to opt in to the Scheme and have since completed the required administration to formally participate.

Further details are provided in Scouts NSW's Letter to Members dated 31 May 2018. Please read the Members' letter here.

The Scheme commenced on 1 July 2018, and will run for 10 years.

The National Redress Scheme comprise 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 it;
  • a monetary payment.

To Make a Claim to the National Redress Scheme

If you wish to make a claim with the National Redress Scheme, please visit https://www.nationalredress.gov.au/.

More Information

Questions and Answers about the National Redress Scheme can be found here.

If you would like more information about the Scheme, please visit www.nationalredress.gov.au/ or call the the National Redress Scheme Information Line on 1800 737 377.

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.

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.

A National Child Protection Policy and Procedures developed in conjunction with a leading child protection organisation are in place. We continue to enhance our policies and procedures in the area of 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.