NOD places carers in family homes, often at short notice, so keeping children safe is the most important thing we do. NOD has zero tolerance for the abuse or neglect of children. A child's safety always comes first.
Our promise
Our commitment
Every child has the right to be safe, respected and listened to, whatever their age, culture, gender, ability or background.
We respect the culture and identity of every child, including tamariki Māori and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.
Anyone can raise a concern, and we will act on it. No one is ever penalised for reporting a concern in good faith.
Haylee Killip, Founder and CEO, is NOD's Child Safety Lead and is responsible for our Child Protection Policy.
Vetting
How we screen every carer
No carer can accept a booking until every check is complete:
1A detailed application covering identity, work history and childcare experience.
2A safety check: an NZ Police vet in New Zealand, or a current Working With Children Check in New South Wales and Victoria, verified by NOD.
3A video interview, including how they would keep children safe and respond to a concern.
4At least two references, checked by phone.
5Proof of identity and right to work.
6Agreeing to NOD's Child Protection Policy and Code of Conduct.
Ongoing: Working With Children Checks are re-checked every 12 months and NZ Police vets are renewed every 2 years. Any carer whose check changes status is paused immediately.
Expectations
Our carer code of conduct
Carers always
Supervise children at all times, at a level suited to their age
Follow parents' instructions on food, allergies, medication, screens, sleep and who may collect the children
Follow safe sleep guidance for babies
Respect children's privacy when toileting, bathing or changing
Keep parents updated and report any injury or incident before leaving
Carers never
Use physical punishment, or shout at, threaten, shame or isolate a child
Work under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or smoke or vape while caring for children
Leave children alone, or with anyone the parents haven't approved
Bring visitors, pets or their own children without the parents' written agreement
Take photos or videos except to send to the child's own parents, or post them anywhere
Contact children directly online or by phone, or see them outside a NOD booking
Drive children anywhere without the parents' prior agreement and the right car seats
Breaching the code can lead to removal from NOD and, where required, a report to the authorities.
Talk to us
Raising a concern
If you're worried about a child's safety or a carer's behaviour, contact us straight away. You don't need proof.