Child Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct 

Kiryandongo Video Advocates (KVA) is committed to ensuring the safety, well-being, and protection of all children whose parents participate in all KVA programs. We recognize that children are vulnerable and have the right to be protected from all forms of harm, abuse, exploitation, and neglect. This Child Safeguarding Policy outlines our commitment to creating a safe and secure environment for children and preventing any incidents of harm or abuse.

Policy Statement

Purpose: The purpose of this policy is to establish clear guidelines and procedures for safeguarding children whose parents are involved in KVA programs. It aims to raise awareness among staff, volunteers, and stakeholders about their responsibilities in protecting children from harm and promoting their welfare.

Scope: This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, contractors, and stakeholders involved in KVA programs, regardless of their role or level of contact with children. It covers all activities, events, and interactions where children may be present or participating.

Legal and Ethical Framework: KVA is committed to upholding all relevant laws, regulations, and international conventions related to child protection, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and local child protection legislation.

Risk Assessment and Prevention: KVA will conduct regular risk assessments to identify potential risks to children’s safety and well-being within our programs. Measures will be implemented to mitigate these risks and prevent incidents of harm or abuse.

Reporting and Response: Any concerns, suspicions, or allegations of harm, abuse, or neglect involving children whose parents are participating in KVA’s programs must be reported immediately to the designated Officer. KVA will take prompt and appropriate action to investigate, respond to, and address all reports in accordance with established procedures and legal requirements using the existing child protection structures and referral pathway.

Confidentiality and Privacy: Information related to child safeguarding concerns will be treated with the utmost confidentiality and privacy, with access limited to authorized personnel involved in the management and resolution of such concerns.

Training and Capacity Building: KVA will provide regular training and capacity-building initiatives to equip staff, volunteers, and stakeholders with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to implement this Child Safeguarding Policy effectively.

Monitoring and Evaluation: KVA will regularly monitor, review, and evaluate the implementation of this policy to ensure compliance, effectiveness, and continuous improvement in safeguarding practices.

Communication and Awareness: KVA will communicate this Child Safeguarding Policy to all relevant stakeholders, including staff, volunteers, participants, parents/guardians, and partner organizations. We will raise awareness about child safeguarding principles and promote a culture of vigilance and accountability in safeguarding children.

Review and Revision: This Child Safeguarding Policy will be reviewed and revised periodically to reflect changes in legislation, best practices, and organizational needs.

KVA is committed to upholding the highest standards of child protection and safeguarding in all aspects of our programs.

Code of Conduct

1. Respect for Children: All staff, volunteers, and stakeholders will treat children whose parents are participating in KVA programs with respect, dignity, and kindness, regardless of their background, abilities, or circumstances.

2. Duty of Care: We will prioritize the safety, well-being, and best interests of children at all times, taking proactive measures to prevent harm, abuse, exploitation, and neglect.

3. Professional Boundaries: Staff and volunteers will maintain appropriate professional boundaries with children, avoiding behaviours or actions that could be perceived as inappropriate, abusive, or exploitative.

4. Non-Discrimination: KVA is committed to promoting inclusivity and diversity and will not tolerate any form of discrimination, harassment, or bullying against children based on factors such as race, ethnicity, religion, gender, disability, or sexual orientation.

5. Supervision and Monitoring: Adults responsible for overseeing KVA activities involving children will provide adequate supervision and monitoring to ensure their safety and well-being.

6. Reporting Obligations: Any concerns, suspicions, or allegations of harm, abuse, or neglect involving children must be reported immediately to the designated Officer, following KVA reporting procedures and protocols.

7. Confidentiality: Information related to child safeguarding concerns will be handled with strict confidentiality, shared only with authorized personnel involved in the management and resolution of such concerns.

8. Professional Conduct: Staff and volunteers will conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times, adhering to KVA’s policies, procedures, and ethical standards.

9. Compliance with Policies and Laws: All individuals involved in KVA’s programs must comply with this Child Safeguarding Policy, as well as relevant laws, regulations, and international conventions related to child protection.

10. Continuous Learning and Improvement: We are committed to ongoing learning, reflection, and improvement in our child safeguarding practices, seeking feedback, and incorporating lessons learned to enhance the safety and well-being of children.

By adhering to this safeguarding policy and Code of Conduct, we affirm our commitment to creating a safe, nurturing, and empowering environment for all children whose parents are participating in all KVA programs.