Child Safety Standards Policy
Asara for Humanity Network (AHN) is committed to safeguarding every child we engage with. This policy sets clear standards, roles, and response procedures to prevent harm and ensure swift action when concerns arise.
Quick Navigation
Scope & Definitions
Scope: This policy covers all AHN activities (on-site, online, and hybrid), including events, field visits, trainings, research, outreach, media production, and partnerships.
Child: Any person under 18 years of age.
Abuse: Physical, emotional, sexual abuse; neglect; exploitation; bullying; and online harms.
Guiding Principles
- Best interests of the child are paramount in all decisions.
- Zero tolerance for abuse, exploitation, or retaliation.
- Do no harm: plan and deliver activities safely and respectfully.
- Confidentiality balanced with duty to report and protect.
- Participation & dignity: children are heard in age-appropriate ways.
- Non-discrimination: equal protection regardless of gender, ability, ethnicity, or location.
Code of Conduct
All AHN personnel and partners must adhere to the following:
Always
- Treat children with respect and kindness; use positive, non-violent guidance.
- Work in observable settings; avoid one-on-one unsupervised situations.
- Seek informed consent from parents/guardians for participation and media.
- Report any concern or incident immediately through the channels below.
Never
- Use physical punishment, humiliating language, or sexualized behavior.
- Give personal gifts, money, or favors that create dependency or secrecy.
- Share private contact or social media with minors; use approved channels only.
- Photograph/record children without written consent and safeguarding checks.
Safeguarding Procedures
- Risk Assessment: Before activities, identify risks and mitigation (venues, transport, gender-sensitive arrangements, accessibility).
- Supervision Ratios: Maintain age-appropriate adult–child ratios; ensure female staff for girls’ groups.
- Safe Recruitment: Verify identity, references, and police/record checks as applicable.
- Transport & Field Visits: Use vetted providers; maintain logs; obtain parental permissions.
- Partner Compliance: Contracts include safeguarding clauses; AHN may audit and require improvements.
Reporting & Response — Act Immediately
If a child is in danger, call 15 (Police) or local emergency services first, then notify AHN.
- How to report: Use the Incident Report Form, email safeguarding@asara.org, or inform a designated Safeguarding Focal Person.
- Timelines: Initial report within 24 hours; urgent risks reported immediately.
- Response: AHN will safeguard the child, document actions, notify authorities where required, and protect whistleblowers.
- Confidentiality: Share on a need-to-know basis only; securely store records.
Digital Safety & Data Protection
- Use AHN-approved platforms; disable private messaging with minors.
- No sharing of personal data without consent and legal basis; follow minimum data principle.
- Store data in encrypted systems; restrict access; define retention and deletion schedules.
- Moderate online sessions; enforce respectful conduct; record only with prior consent.
Consent, Media & Communications
- Obtain written, specific, informed consent from parent/guardian and assent from the child where appropriate.
- Use neutral identifiers; avoid revealing names, schools, or precise locations in public materials.
- Portray children with dignity; no imagery that risks stigma, retraumatization, or identification of abuse survivors.
- Consent can be withdrawn at any time; honor requests promptly.
Screening, Training & Monitoring
- Screening: Background checks and references for staff/volunteers with child contact.
- Training: Induction + annual refreshers on safeguarding, boundaries, and reporting.
- Monitoring: Spot checks, feedback channels, and periodic policy review (at least annually).
- Consequences: Misconduct may result in suspension, termination, and legal action.
Incident Report Form
For emergencies, contact police/emergency services first. Use this form to notify AHN within 24 hours.
Safeguarding Contacts
For guidance or to escalate a concern, contact:
- Safeguarding Focal Person (AHN): amrmuh@gmail.com | +92-3100441444
- Alternate Contact: info@asaraforhumanity.network
- Emergency (Pakistan): Police 15 | Edhi 115 | Rescue 1122
This policy will be reviewed annually and after any significant incident or legal change. Feedback is welcome at info@asaraforhumanity.network.
