Safeguarding Policy

1. Purpose

To protect children, vulnerable adults, and all participants in the Foundation’s programs (e.g., autism inclusion camps, out-of-school children initiatives) from harm, abuse, and exploitation.

2. Principles

1. Prevention: Minimize risk of harm through safe recruitment, training, and oversight.
2. Protection: Respond promptly and appropriately to any safeguarding concerns.
3. Empowerment: Ensure beneficiaries are aware of their rights and know how to report concerns.
4. Partnership: Work with local communities, partner organizations, and families to safeguard participants.

3. Safe Recruitment & Screening

• Conduct background checks (where legally permissible) for staff, volunteers, and contractors.
• Require references and conduct interviews to assess suitability for working with children or vulnerable groups.
• Provide child-safeguarding and vulnerable-person training as part of onboarding.

4. Code of Behavior for Working with Vulnerable People

Staff and volunteers should:

• Avoid one-on-one unsupervised interactions with children where possible.
• Use appropriate language and physical contact; never engage in abusive, humiliating, or discriminatory behavior.
• Ensure any photographs or video taken of participants are done with consent, and stored securely.
• Respect boundaries; do not engage in relationships that could exploit trust.

5. Reporting Procedures

• All staff and volunteers must report safeguarding concerns immediately to a designated Safeguarding Officer.
• The Foundation will have a clear, accessible reporting mechanism (e.g., hotline, email).
• Reports will be handled confidentially, and a risk-assessment will be carried out.
• If necessary, external authorities (e.g., child protection services) will be involved.

6. Response & Investigation

• A designated Safeguarding Committee or Officer conducts investigations.
• Support will be given to victims (e.g., counselling, appropriate referrals).
• If accusations are substantiated, disciplinary action will be taken, and lessons learned will be used to improve policies.

7. Training & Monitoring

• Regular safeguarding training for staff and volunteers.
• Periodic review of the safeguarding policy and procedures.
• Monitoring and evaluation of programs to ensure safeguarding standards are upheld.