Child Safeguarding Policy

1. Purpose

This Child Safeguarding Policy outlines our commitment to protecting all children from abuse, neglect, exploitation, violence, and harm. We believe every child has the right to grow up in a safe, supportive, and caring environment.

2. Policy Statement

We are committed to:

• Promoting the safety, dignity, and wellbeing of every child.
  • Creating a safe environment where children are respected and protected.
  • Preventing all forms of child abuse, neglect, exploitation, and violence.
  • Responding appropriately to safeguarding concerns and allegations.
  • Ensuring that all staff, volunteers, consultants, visitors, and partners understand their safeguarding responsibilities.

3. Scope

This policy applies to:

• Employees
  • Volunteers
  • Interns
  • Consultants
  • Board members
  • Visitors
  • Contractors
  • Partner organisations

4. Definitions

Child

A child is any person under the age of 18 years.

Child Abuse

Child abuse includes:

• Physical abuse
  • Emotional or psychological abuse
  • Sexual abuse
  • Neglect
  • Exploitation, including child labour and trafficking

5. Code of Conduct

All staff, volunteers, and representatives must:

• Treat children with dignity and respect.
  • Listen to children and take their concerns seriously.
  • Use appropriate language and behaviour at all times.
  • Obtain consent before taking photographs or videos of children.
  • Ensure activities are supervised and conducted in safe environments.
  • Report any safeguarding concerns immediately.

All staff, volunteers, and representatives must not:

• Hit, threaten, humiliate, or intimidate a child.
  • Engage in any sexual activity or inappropriate relationship with a child.
  • Use abusive, discriminatory, or offensive language.
  • Spend time alone with a child in a private or isolated place without proper authorisation.
  • Exchange personal contact details with children without organisational approval.
  • Share images or information about children without consent.

6. Recruitment and Screening

The organisation will:

• Conduct reference checks where appropriate.
  • Verify identity documents.
  • Assess suitability of staff and volunteers to work with children.
  • Provide safeguarding orientation and training.

7. Reporting Safeguarding Concerns

Any person who suspects or witnesses abuse, neglect, exploitation, or harm must report the concern immediately to the designated safeguarding focal person.

Reports should include:

• Name of the child, if known.
  • Nature of the concern.
  • Date, time, and location of the incident.
  • Names of any witnesses.
  • Any immediate actions taken.

8. Responding to Concerns

The organisation will:

• Take all concerns seriously.
  • Act promptly and confidentially.
  • Prioritise the safety and wellbeing of the child.
  • Follow legal and organisational reporting procedures.
  • Cooperate with relevant authorities when required.

9. Confidentiality

Information related to safeguarding concerns will only be shared with individuals who need to know in order to protect the child and manage the case appropriately.

10. Photography and Media

Children’s images, stories, and personal information shall only be collected and used with appropriate consent and in a manner that protects their dignity, privacy, and safety.

11. Training and Awareness

All staff and volunteers will receive safeguarding training and regular updates to ensure they understand their responsibilities and the reporting process.

12. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed regularly and updated as necessary to ensure it remains effective and aligned with legal requirements and best practices.

Declaration

I have read, understood, and agree to comply with the Child Safeguarding Policy by accepting to collaborate, volunteer, or work with Tanzania Community Rising.