1. Policy Statement
Our NGO is committed to creating and maintaining a safe, nurturing, and protective environment for all children we work with, particularly street-connected and vulnerable children. We have zero tolerance for any form of child abuse, exploitation, neglect, or harassment. This policy outlines our responsibilities and procedures to safeguard children from harm.
This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, interns, partners, consultants, visitors, and board members associated with the organization.
2. Purpose of the Policy
The purpose of this policy is to:
- Protect children from all forms of abuse and exploitation
- Define acceptable and unacceptable behavior toward children
- Establish clear reporting and response mechanisms
- Ensure accountability and compliance with child protection standards
3. Definition of a Child
A child is any person under the age of 18, regardless of gender, nationality, ethnicity, disability, or socio-economic background.
4. Forms of Abuse and Exploitation
Child abuse may include, but is not limited to:
4.1 Physical Abuse
Deliberate physical harm or injury to a child.
4.2 Emotional or Psychological Abuse
Actions that harm a child’s emotional well-being, including humiliation, threats, discrimination, or intimidation.
4.3 Sexual Abuse and Exploitation
Any sexual activity with a child, including inappropriate touching, sexual comments, exploitation, pornography, or trafficking.
4.4 Neglect
Failure to provide adequate care, supervision, food, shelter, medical care, or protection.
4.5 Child Labor and Exploitation
Forcing or allowing a child to engage in harmful or illegal work or activities for personal or organizational gain.
5. Code of Conduct (Expected Behavior)
All representatives of the NGO must:
- Treat all children with dignity, respect, and fairness
- Maintain appropriate physical and emotional boundaries
- Always work in visible and safe environments
- Obtain informed consent before photographs, videos, or interviews
- Use positive and non-violent behavior management techniques
- Immediately report any safeguarding concerns
Prohibited Behavior
The following are strictly prohibited:
- Physical punishment or harsh discipline
- Sexual contact or romantic relationships with children
- Being alone with a child in a private or isolated place
- Using abusive, discriminatory, or degrading language
- Giving gifts, money, or favors to individual children without approval
- Taking children to private residences or unauthorized locations
6. Recruitment and Screening
To minimize risk, the NGO will:
- Conduct background checks where legally possible
- Verify references for staff and volunteers
- Require signing of the Child Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct
- Provide mandatory child safeguarding training
7. Reporting and Responding to Concerns
7.1 Duty to Report
All staff and volunteers are required to report:
- Suspected or disclosed abuse
- Breaches of this policy
- Inappropriate behavior by staff, volunteers, or partners
7.2 Reporting Channels
Concerns should be reported immediately to:
- The Child Safeguarding Officer / Program Manager
- Or via a confidential reporting mechanism (email/phone/complaint box)
Reports can be made verbally or in writing and will be treated confidentially.
8. Response and Investigation
The NGO will:
- Take all reports seriously and act promptly
- Ensure the immediate safety of the child
- Follow national child protection laws and referral procedures
- Cooperate with authorities where required
- Maintain confidentiality and data protection
No person reporting concerns in good faith will face retaliation.
9. Confidentiality and Data Protection
Information related to safeguarding cases will only be shared on a need-to-know basis to protect the child’s privacy and dignity.
10. Awareness and Training
The NGO commits to:
- Regular safeguarding training for staff and volunteers
- Child-friendly awareness sessions on rights and safety
- Displaying child protection information at project sites
11. Monitoring and Review
This policy will be reviewed at least once every two years or earlier if required by legal or operational changes.
12. Policy Acceptance
All staff, volunteers, and partners must read, understand, and sign this Child Safeguarding Policy as a condition of their engagement with the NGO.
Approved by: Jean Bosco
Date: 21.10.2022.