Child Safeguarding Policy
for
Chetana Empowerment Foundation
1. Introduction
Chetana Empowerment Foundation (CEF) is committed to protecting the rights and well-being of children. This policy outlines the organization’s commitment to safeguarding children from harm and abuse, and provides guidelines for staff, volunteers, and partners to prevent and respond to child abuse.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, contractors, and partners involved in CEF’s projects, including Chetana Jeevan Nirman and value education programs. It covers all children who participate in or benefit from CEF’s activities.
3. Definition of Child
For the purposes of this policy, a child is defined as any person under the age of 18.
4. Child Safeguarding Principles
- Prevention: CEF will implement measures to prevent child abuse, including staff training, risk assessments, and safe recruitment practices.
- Protection: CEF will protect children from harm by creating a safe and supportive environment.
- Reporting: CEF will have clear procedures for reporting and responding to allegations of child abuse.
- Investigation: CEF will conduct prompt and thorough investigations of all allegations of child abuse.
- Support: CEF will provide support to children who have experienced abuse.
5. Responsibilities
- Board of Directors: Responsible for overall policy oversight and ensuring adequate resources for child safeguarding.
- Management: Responsible for implementing the policy, providing staff training, and monitoring compliance.
- Staff and Volunteers: Responsible for adhering to the policy, reporting concerns, and creating a safe environment for children.
- Partners: Responsible for adhering to CEF’s child safeguarding standards and cooperating in investigations.
6. Safe Recruitment and Selection
CEF will conduct thorough background checks on all staff and volunteers working with children. Safe recruitment practices will include:
- Clear job descriptions outlining responsibilities and expectations.
- Reference checks.
- Criminal background checks (as permitted by law).
- Child protection training for all staff and volunteers.
7. Safe Environments
CEF will create safe environments for children by:
- Implementing clear child protection policies and procedures.
- Providing appropriate supervision of children.
- Maintaining open communication with children and parents/guardians.
- Ensuring physical facilities are safe and secure.
- Specific to Chetana Jeevan Nirman Project: Given the daily Shramdan (labour donation) activity, ensure that all tools and equipment used are safe and age-appropriate. Adequate supervision should be provided during these activities.
8. Reporting and Responding to Concerns
Any person with concerns about the safety and well-being of a child must report it immediately to their supervisor or designated child protection officer. All reports will be taken seriously and investigated promptly.
9. Investigation
CEF will conduct impartial and thorough investigations of all allegations of child abuse. The investigation process will include:
- Interviewing witnesses.
- Gathering evidence.
- Protecting the child’s rights and well-being.
- Taking appropriate action based on the findings.
10. Support for Children
CEF will provide support to children who have experienced abuse through:
- Access to counselling and therapy.
- Collaboration with child protection agencies.
- Ensuring the child’s safety and well-being.
11. Monitoring and Evaluation
CEF will regularly monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of its child safeguarding policies and procedures. This will include:
- Collecting data on incidents of child abuse.
- Conducting staff satisfaction surveys.
- Reviewing and updating the policy as needed.
12. Training
All staff and volunteers will receive regular child safeguarding training, including:
- Child development and psychology.
- Signs and symptoms of child abuse.
- Reporting procedures.
- Safeguarding best practices.
- Specific to Chetana Jeevan Nirman Project: Include training on safe handling of tools and equipment, first aid, and potential hazards during Shramdan activities.
13. Partnership
CEF will collaborate with other organizations and agencies involved in child protection to share information and best practices.
14. Accountability
CEF will hold all staff, volunteers, and partners accountable for adhering to the child safeguarding policy. Any breaches of the policy will be subject to disciplinary action.
15. Additional Considerations for Chetana Jeevan Nirman Project
- Shramdan Supervision: Ensure that adequate supervision is provided during Shramdan activities.
- Physical Safety: Regular inspections of the Shramdan area should be conducted to identify and address potential hazards.
- Child Involvement: The nature of Shramdan activities should be appropriate for the age and developmental stage of the children involved.
- Emergency Preparedness: Have a clear emergency plan in place for Shramdan activities, including first aid procedures.