Child Protection Policy

Introduction

At Sarvamangala Society, we are committed to safeguarding children and ensuring their well-being and safety are paramount at all times. This Child Protection Policy applies to all staff, volunteers, board members, and anyone working on behalf of Sarvamangala Society.

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Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to:

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• Protect children and young people who receive Sarvamangala Society's services and who participate in the programs we conduct.

• Provide staff and volunteers, as well as children and their families, with the overarching principles that guide our approach to child protection.

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Legal Framework

This policy has been drawn up based on law, policy, and guidance that seeks to protect children in [specify the country/region]. [Note: You should insert relevant legal frameworks and guidance specific to your location here.]

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Definitions

• Child: Anyone under the age of 18.

• Child Protection: The actions and activities undertaken to prevent children from experiencing abuse or harm.

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Principles

• The welfare of the child is paramount, as enshrined in the [Children Act 1989].

• All children, regardless of age, disability, gender, racial heritage, religious belief, sexual orientation, or identity, have the right to equal protection from all types of harm or abuse.

• Working in partnership with children, young people, their parents, carers, and other agencies is essential in promoting young people’s welfare.

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Recognising Signs of Abuse and Harm

We are committed to ensuring all staff and volunteers are trained to understand the signs of abuse and harm. Types of abuse include:

• Physical Abuse

• Emotional Abuse

• Sexual Abuse

• Neglect

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Signs of abuse can vary and may not always be obvious. Training will be provided to all personnel to recognize potential warning signs.

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Procedures

• Reporting Concerns: All staff and volunteers must know how to respond and report concerns about a child, whether this is based on behavior observed, disclosures made by children, or allegations against staff or volunteers.

• Responding to Disclosures: Guidance will be provided on how to react if a child makes a disclosure of abuse, ensuring the response is appropriate, supportive, and within legal guidelines.

• Recording Information: Detailed and accurate records will be kept securely of all incidents related to child protection concerns.

• Working With External Agencies: We will collaborate with children's social care and other relevant organizations during any child protection investigation.

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Training

All staff and volunteers working with children will receive regular training on child protection issues, including recognizing signs of abuse and the correct procedures to follow if abuse is suspected.

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Safe Recruitment

We are committed to safe recruitment practices to ensure all staff and volunteers working with children are suitable and properly checked, including appropriate background checks and references.

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Code of Conduct

All staff and volunteers are expected to adhere to a code of conduct that sets clear expectations for behaviour when working with children.

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Review and Monitoring

This policy will be reviewed [state how often, e.g., annually] and updated in accordance with any changes in legislation and/or organisational practices.

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Contact Information

For reporting concerns or further information, contact:

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• Child Protection Officer: 

• Deputy:

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