Guidelines for the care of unaccompanied children

This policy gives guidance for library staff and users when children are unaccompanied and/or unsupervised in Kāpiti Coast District Libraries.

 These guidelines apply to all library users during Kāpiti Coast District Libraries' opening hours, and at events organised by Kāpiti Coast District Libraries.

Welcome

Children and caregivers are welcomed by Kāpiti Coast District Libraries to use its resources, services, and spaces.

Definitions

In accordance with Oranga Tamariki Act 1989:

• child means a person under the age of 14 years
• young person means a person of or over the age of 14 years but under 18 years.

 For the purposes of these guidelines:

• unaccompanied child refers to a child whose parent or caregiver is not on library premises or at the location of a Kāpiti Coast District Libraries event
• caregiver refers to an adult or young person who is responsible for the child’s wellbeing during their stay in the library or their participation in an event
• actively supervising means being close to the child, watching them, managing their behaviour, and being able to help immediately if they need it.

Principles of care

• The wellbeing of children is the primary guiding principle. Library staff will do their utmost to provide a safe and comfortable environment for children, while considering the needs of other library users and programme participants.
• Parents and caregivers are responsible for the wellbeing of their children and, in accordance with the Summary Offences Act 1981, must make reasonable provision for their supervision and care.
• Children under 8 years old must be actively supervised by a parent or caregiver when on library premises or at the location of a Kāpiti Coast District Libraries event.
• Children between 8 and 14 years old must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver who remains in the library building, or at the location of an event, and is easily and quickly located by the child if necessary.
• Each situation involving an unaccompanied or unsupervised child will be considered on its own merits and at the discretion of library staff. Library staff may take action if they consider a child is not adequately supervised and cared for.
• Library staff will act on any reasonable concerns about the wellbeing of unaccompanied children but will not assume responsibility for the supervision and care of those children.
• If it becomes evident that a child has been left unaccompanied, staff will attempt to locate the parent or caregiver. If the unaccompanied child is in distress, Police may be called if the parent or caregiver cannot be found or contacted.