IPPF Child Protection Policy by IPPF

From choice, a world of possibilities

Creating a safe environment for children and young people in IPPF

Contents

Who we are The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is a global service provider and a leading advocate of sexual and reproductive health and rights for all. We are a worldwide movement of national organizations working with and for communities and individuals. IPPF works towards a world where women, men and young people everywhere have control over their own bodies, and therefore their destinies. A world where they are free to choose parenthood or not; free to decide how many children they will have and when; free to pursue healthy sexual lives without fear of unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. A world where gender or sexuality are no longer a source of inequality or stigma. We will not retreat from doing everything we can to safeguard these important choices and rights for current and future generations.

Front cover image: istock

Introduction

4-6

1. Ippf and protection of children and young people

Rights and protection of children and young people

What is it?

What does it mean for an ma?

What does it involve?

How is it different to the other protective policies an organization may have?

2. What is the process for making the policy a reality?

Steps for introducing, developing and implementing the policy

Joint responsibility

Annexes

IPPF Policy 4.19

Example of introductory meeting

Assessment of the standards of protection of children and young people in the organizations

Example of code of conduct

Recognizing violations

Responding to disclosure

Responding to allegations

Overview of training guides

Relevant paragraphs of ippfâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s declaration of sexual rights

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4 Creating a safe environment for children and young people in IPPF

Thinking the unthinkable If you were a staff member, project coordinator, executive director, volunteer or board member what would you do if: A young person discloses or displays signs of abuse, while attending the Member Association? A young person is harmed whilst in contact with the Member Association ? A young person abuses another young person in the Member Association? Staff/volunteer abuses his/her own family or someone in the community? Staff/volunteer abuses a young person via his or her professional role

All these situations are unimaginable but you need to think about it in order to prevent it to happen or to know exactly how to react when it happens

IPPF’s Declaration of Sexual Rights is guided by an approach that identifies the need to protect people’s sexual identities, which are plentiful in their diversity, and seeks to provide conditions that allow individual sexual expression and fulfilment. In the Declaration we see children and young people as rights holders On the other hand, we recognize the vulnerability of children and young people and their need for care, counselling and protection by parents, communities and the state. The doctrine of evolving capacities of the child manages this double identity of the child and young person in a flexible and contextual manner in order to apply legal rights and protections in accordance with the evolving stages of maturity and development. Respecting, protecting and fulfilling the sexual and reproductive health rights of young people which include the right to be free from all forms of abuse or harassment and the right to participate in decisions that affect their lives form a core component of IPPF’s vision for young people. To achieve these goals, we must ensure that children and young people we come in direct/indirect contact with are protected and supported.

In other words, we can only promote a positive approach to young people’s sexuality and their sexual rights, if we adapt zero tolerance towards (sexual) harassment and abuse and create a safe environment for children and young people. For IPPF to be proactive in safeguarding the rights of all young people, we needed a unified approach that outlines the Federation’s responsibilities to promote ethical practice, prevent abuse and protect children and young people. As a result a policy on Protecting Children and Young People was passed by the IPPF Governing Council in May 2005. • Children and young people are particularly vulnerable to abuse and exploitation. Fulfilling the rights of young people is a fundamental component of the IPPF Strategic Plan on Adolescents and this necessarily includes their right to be protected from all forms of abuse. • As a Federation we work closely with young people and promote their participation. It is not only best practice, but also ethical to have a policy in place that protects the children and young people we work for and with from all forms of abuse or exploitation.

• Without protection policies, guidelines and systems the Federation can become vulnerable to false or malicious accusations of abuse and this has serious implications for its reputation, credibility, legitimacy and resource mobilization. • Because the potential for child abuse exists throughout the world and because abuse and sexual and reproductive ill health are closely linked, IPPF as a global network is ideally placed to promote awareness, sensitisation and standards of child protection and to engage in capacity building on this important issue. • Having a Child Protection Policy in place is becoming a donor requirement. There are public/ professional expectations/demands on us and increased scrutiny and emphasis on accountability In 2006 the Governing Council of IPPF passed a policy that states that each Member Association should have a policy in place to protect children and young people in the organization. (Policy 4.19 Protecting children and young people) This document is written to support the implement this policy in the Federation.

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6 Creating a safe environment for children and young people in IPPF

1. IPPF And Protection Of Children And Young People “IPPF, together with young people, creates and maintains a safe environment for young people” (proposed goal, May 06)

What is the purpose of this document? The document has been written to help Member Associations look critically at their policies for young people through a rights-based lens. It is intended as guidance to assist Member Associations (MA) in the development and implementation of policies and mechanisms to develop policies to protect children and young people to ensure a safe environment in the MA for young people of all ages. This is in line with IPPF’s holistic developmental approach, starting from a young age, to promote the rights and well being of children and young people, including their sexual and reproductive health and rights. Who is this document written for? The document can be used by staff and volunteers organizations working for and with young people; a key audience is board members, programme managers and MA directors – people who have decisionmaking power to effect change and develop policies to protect children and young people within Member Association. It is crucial that young volunteers are participating as equal partners in the process.

How this document should be used? The document can be used in different ways • As a basic reference and guidance for anyone who wants to introduce, assess and develop policies to protect children and young people in the organization • Depending on the status of the existing protection policies in the MA, the document can be used to design a policy and mechanisms to offer guidance of good practice in code of conduct, procedures in case of misconduct etc. Structure of the document The document has 2 chapters: Chapter 1: The why, what and how of policies to protect children and young people in the organization. This section provides background information on child protection policies; why a MA should have these policies and what they entail Chapter 2: A step by step explanation how to introduce the concept of a new policy, how to assess the current situation, to develop, policies and guidelines and how to introduce, monitor and evaluate them. Annexes: In this section you will find all the necessary materials including examples of an introductory meeting and an example of an assessment tool, policies and a code of good conduct. It also gives an overview of useful websites and existing training materials

In 1998 IPPF adopted the Youth Manifesto and thereby committed it self to protecting and upholding the sexual and reproductive health rights of all young people. Building on this commitment which is set out in IPPF Policy 4.7, adolescent sexual and reproductive health rights became a strategic priority in the new IPPF Strategic Framework launched in 2004. Our values with regards to young people’s rights and our awareness of their particular vulnerabilities should not only be reflected in our programmes and external activities but our internal organizational environment – not only what we do but how we do it. This ensures our credibility and integrity.

Defining children, young people and adolescence. As most societies define adolescence and youth in terms of both age and life circumstances, there is no universal agreement on what is a ‘young person’. The national legal age for political participation and the availability of data on different age groups can also determine how societies define youth. The World Health Organization defines young people as those from 10 to 24 years of age, including adolescents (10-19 years) and youth (15-24 years). The definition of the age of a child or young person is an arbitrary one. An important guiding principle is the acknowledgement of the evolving capacity of children and young people. At the age of adulthood, whatever age a society decides that to be, a person is deemed to be fully responsible for themselves and all their actions. However before reaching adulthood, there is a period where children and young people are seen to be developing. Evolving capacity means that young people, as individuals, are continually developing the ability to make informed decisions and take full responsibility for their

actions until a point when they are fully responsible. Some may become responsible earlier than others. A range of research has confirmed that capacities develop at different times in individual children and young people. This means that some children and young people are able to make their own decisions and other need more protection and support. IPPF uses the terms young people, youth and adolescents interchangeably to refer to people who are between 10 and 24 years. This broader use of the terms underscores the need for policies and programs that do not focus so much on age but more on recognizing the specific developmental needs and rights of people as they transition from childhood to adulthood. IPPF seeks to apply the protective policies mentioned here to all those between the ages of 10 and 24. However in some cases we will clarify whether the emphasis should be on children, young people or on both. Further clarification from local experts in the field on how this were to operate in practice is recommended

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Linking a rights based approach and protection of children and young people Taking a rights-based approach to programming has implications for the ways in which IPPF engages with the external world. In a similar way, becoming a rightsfocused organisation also has implications for the Secretariat and the MA’s work. Living up to, and demonstrating in practice, the values and principles that underpin a right’s-based approach carry consequences and requirements for organisational governance, strategies, policies and procedures. In order to enhance a positive change in young people’s lives we have to look at the way our policies address equity and non discrimination, how they support young people to demand their rights, how they promote youth involvement and participation at all levels and how they safeguard young people from harm and abuse. As organizations come under ever greater scrutiny, they face demands to provide evidence of their impact and are held increasingly accountable for their use of resources. They need also to model internal practices consistent with the right’s based values and principles they promote, or risk facing charges of hypocrisy (and diminishing the potential of

their impact). In all of their dealings and actions, organisations need to treat all people with respect and dignity; they need to demonstrate a commitment to equity and fairness. There is a need to be consistent, demonstrating practically to others the approaches, values and principles we express. Therefore a child protection policy is part of a right’ based approach which includes making rights holders (children and young people) aware of their rights and making those who work with children and young people accountable.

What is a child protection policy?

What does it mean for an MA?

A Child Protection Policy provides a framework of principles, standards and guidelines on which to base individual and organisational practice in relation to areas such as:

• MA’s need to be aware of the national laws, regulations and guidelines with regard to Child protection

• Creating a safe and ‘youth friendly’ organisation (in relation to environmental safety as well as protection against physical, psychological and sexual abuse) • Prevention of abuse • Guidelines for appropriate and inappropriate behaviour/attitude • Personnel recruitment and training

Engaging in the participatory process of developing and implementing a child protection policy will contribute to the Federation’s approach and objectives for youth programming and services and will also reflect the fact that IPPF seeks to be a learning organization.

• Recognising, reporting and reacting to allegations of abuse • Guidelines for communications regarding children and young people This policy is not directed towards sexual abuse, but rather encompasses all aspects of child protection including, but not limited to: disciplinary measures, health and safety measures, physical harm, working with information about children and young people, proper recruitment and managerial procedures, and the ramifications of misconduct.

• Child protection policies and procedures need to be developed in partnership with young people • Young people who participate in the MA programmes (peer educators, counsellors etc) and in governance are made aware and regularly informed about the policies and procedures for protection (how they should behave and what to do if they are on the receiving end of or suspect unacceptable behaviour) • Adults who work on youth programmes (eg; sexuality education programmes, outreach activities) with and for children and young people are made aware and regularly informed about the policies and procedures for protection. (how they should interact with young people and what to do if they suspect abuse) • Adult programmers, including peer education supervisors, trainers understand their roles and responsibilities in recognizing and addressing abuse and have clear understanding of the appropriate behaviour towards children and young people

(balancing confidentiality with not seeing young clients alone) • Youth programmes and strategies ensure that abuse and other child protection issues are addressed comprehensively. (what is abuse, how do you prevent it, what can be done etc) • Young clients of the MAs youth programmes are made aware of what to expect in terms of appropriate behaviour towards them (in the programme and in their lives) and what they can do in the event of harm • The MA works with parents and other community members to raise their awareness about sexual and reproductive health and rights of young people and the evolving capacity of their children to make informed decisions

What do child/young people protection policies and procedures involve? 1. Personnel recruitment – standardised process for all involved in the organisation to raise quality of staff and to safeguard children. This may include police checks for educators and other staff who are in direct contact with children and young people. 2. Education and training – of all involved in the organisation to develop a full understanding of child protection - including awareness raising and empowerment of children and young people to protect themselves. 3. Management structure – to put in place and secure systems to promote, implement and monitor child protection policies and procedures.

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10 Creating a safe environment for children and young people in IPPF

Creating a Safe Enviroment for Chldren and Young People

Governance / Accountability

Protection in all Activites / Processes

Monitoring / Reporting

Risk Management

Member Association

Management Culture

Policies and Procedures Inc. incident Reporting

Development and Training Awareness / Good Practice

Adapted from an IPPF presentation by Paul Nolan, Child protection Manager, Plan in 2007

4. Behaviour protocols; codes of good conduct – written guidelines detailing appropriate and inappropriate behaviour of adults towards children and young people and of children and young people towards each other. 5. Communication guidelines – written guidelines to safeguard and control confidential information about children, to prevent the presentation of harmful and degrading images of children and ensure that children’s rights are respected. 6. Reporting and reaction protocols – a formal process for reporting and reacting to witnessed, suspected or alleged child abuse and/or violation of the protection policy which is understood by all involved in the organisation – including children and young people themselves. This ensures that immediate and appropriate action is taken in the best interests of the child and young person ,to treat the child and young person with dignity and protect the child and young person from harm.

7. Ramifications of misconduct – steps taken as a result of any investigation to signal that the organisation takes child protection seriously, to deter violations of the policy and to hold accountable those who do violate the policy. This should be in line and linked with the national laws, processes and regulations. How is it different to other protective policies an organization may have? Many MAs already have protective workplace and complaint policies and procedures such as anti bullying, anti harassment and non discrimination of those living with HIV, which all address issues equity, non-discrimination and physical and mental safety. However a child protection policy goes further; it is a proactive process to safeguard young people’s integrity, well being and safety. It promotes a positive attitude to children and young people and their SRH needs and rights. Therefore, the existing policies may need to be scrutinised so that gaps in child protection measures can be identified and the specific vulnerabilities of young people we work with and for are addressed.

Another important element is in the process of developing and introducing the policy. While there are core principles for child protection, the detailed policy and procedures need to be developed with staff, volunteers, young people (e.g. peer educators and other young volunteers) and other important stakeholders. It is crucial that all those involved feel ownership over the policy; have a common understanding and agreement on its content and implementation. A child protection policy does not work if it is a paper made by management and human resources and remains somewhere in the drawer of a desk; it should be a living document which needs regular promotion, updating and discussion.

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2. What Is The Process For Making The Policy A Reality? Protection of children and young people is a positive - and necessary - investment in an organisation.

Protection of children and young people is a positive - and necessary - investment in an organisation. Not only will it help to create a safe environment for children and young people, but it may have additional benefits for our organisation, e.g. introducing transparent and participatory structures and processes which encourage the participation and empowerment of children. The ‘bare minimum’ we have to do is to be able to satisfactorily answer the following questions: • Have I done everything I possibly can to prevent young people in my organization from coming to intentional and unintentional harm? • Do children and young people in my organization feel safe? How do I know? • If there was an incident of inappropriate behaviour taking place within my organization, would I know about it? Would I know what to do about it? • Would all personnel know what to do, not just me? • Would a child or young person know what to do if they felt uncomfortable? Would s/ he feel able / comfortable talking to someone in the organisation about it?

• Do our programmes find the right balance between promoting a positive approach to sexuality of children and young people and addressing issues of abuse? In keeping with the right’s based approach to programming the process of developing the child protection policy should necessarily be a joint effort with young volunteers. Steps to putting the policy into practice Step 1: Introduce the concept to staff and volunteers Hold a meeting with all staff and relevant volunteers, including young volunteers to introduce the IPPF Policy (annex 1), to discuss the importance of child protection and consider practical ways to move forward. The objectives of the meeting should include the securing of the commitment of all stakeholders to creating a safe environment for young people and the identification of a small working group to take forward the required activities. A sample meeting plan is provided below (annex 2).

Step 2 : Assessment of current situation The assessment (annex 3) could be a valuable tool for considering the issues that need to be tackled as part of the implementation process. This can be done as a follow up of the introductory meeting. Ensure that young people, staff and volunteers are part of the assessment process. Discuss the outcomes and follow up of the assessment with staff and board members. Step 2: Develop a policy and procedures In order to ensure coherent implementation of child protection, it is useful to develop a brief policy and accompanying procedures as the basis for all related activities. A sample policy is provided in annex 4. Accompany the policy with clear definitions and guidelines for behaviour and good conduct and mechanisms and procedures when the rights and guidelines are infringed/ violated (annex, 5, 6, 7, and 8) Step 3: Introduce the policy The policies and procedures become valuable only if all staff and volunteers are fully equipped to promote and implement its content. All staff and volunteers should be briefed on the policy and procedures

so that a safe environment for young people can be maintained at all levels of the organization. The briefing should be part of the induction of new staff and volunteers. Decide if the staff/volunteers need more training, e.g. on risk assessment; how to report; what to do if there is a complaint. (see annex 9 for overview of training guides)

What can Board Members do? • Agree that a policy is needed

Step 4: Promote the policy. All young people who are in contact with the organization and all staff and volunteers that work directly or indirectly with children and young people through the organization should be aware of the policy and related procedures. Leaflets and posters highlighting the policy could be useful means for promoting the policy.

What can the executive director and management do? • Draft the policy in consultation with members of the Board, staff and volunteers

Step 5: Evaluate the policy Reviewing the implementation of the policy, to evaluate how it has been used, is important if the policy is to remain relevant. This also enables changes to be made for ensuring greater effectiveness.

• Monitor the procedure of complaints procedures and follow up

Joint responsibility

• Have an understanding of abuse, harassment, discrimination and bullying

To make this work all involved in the MA can contribute to promote zero tolerance to any form of abuse, discrimination or harassment of children and young people

• Have input in the development of the policy • Approve the policy • Approve the procedures for implementation • Monitor the implementation occasionally

• Ensure involvement of staff • Ensure training of staff and volunteers and integrate policy in induction of new staff • Put systems in place for addressing complaints etc

What can staff and volunteers do? • Be aware of the policy • Adhere to the policy

• Know what to do when something happens

Never think: This cannot happen in our organization.. it can!

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Annex 1 – Policy 4.19

Annex 2

Protecting Children And Young People

Creating ‘Safe Environments’; example of introduction workshop

Creating a Safe Environment for Working with Children and Young People 1. The purpose of this policy is to provide a set of guiding principles that volunteers and staff in the Federation can follow in order to prevent abuse, promote ethical practice and generally create a safe environment for children and young people. 2. In 1998, IPPF adopted a Youth Manifesto and thereby committed itself to protecting and upholding the sexual and reproductive health and rights of all young people. 3. Respecting, protecting and fulfilling the sexual and reproductive health and rights of young people which include the right to be free from all forms of abuse or harassment and the right to participate in decisions that affect their lives, now forms a core component of IPPF’s Strategic Framework approved by Governing Council in November 2003. 4. To be proactive in safeguarding the rights of young people, IPPF now needs a unified approach that will outline the Federation’s responsibilities to promote ethical practice, prevent abuse and protect children and young people it works with and for.

The Federation’s Commitment and Guiding Principles 5. IPPF believes that all forms of child abuse are violations of children’s rights and all children have the right to be protected from abuse as provided for in the 1989 United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) . 6. IPPF’s commitment to the protection of children and young people from all forms of abuse is in line with the goals of the IPPF Youth Manifesto, IPPF Policy on Meeting the Needs of Young People and the IPPF Charter on Sexual and Reproductive Rights. IPPF recognizes that: • Children and young people are particularly vulnerable to violence, exploitation and maltreatment; • Child abuse and exploitation in any form is never acceptable; • Children and young people it works with and for have the right to be protected from all forms of abuse and exploitation. In its work with and for children and young people, IPPF is therefore committed to the following guiding principles: • Promotion of ethical practice and behaviour among volunteers and staff; • Protection from all forms of physical or mental violence, injury, neglect, maltreatment or exploitation of children and young people; • Prevention of abuse and exploitation/violence.

Policy Implementation In line with this policy, the Secretariat and its Member Associations are urged to raise awareness among volunteers and staff and develop their own appropriate guidelines and procedures for the protection of children and young people. These may include the following: • Development of checks on the suitability of volunteers and staff (including peer educators) working directly/indirectly with children and young people;

Aim

Objectives

To enable participants to be active, effective promoters of protecting young people within IPPF

• Consider what the protection of young people means within Member Association and review experience to date • Develop a common understanding and commitment to creating safe environments

From

• Development of guidelines in relation to how children and young people are portrayed through information and images; It shall be the responsibility of the Director General, Regional Directors and the Executive Directors of Member Associations, to develop and implement in their own settings (Central Office, Regional Office and Member Association) suitable guidelines and procedures to meet the principles set out in this policy. Staff from the IPPF Central Office Youth Unit shall be available to advise on sample protocols and generally support this work. As adopted by Central Council 05-2005

• Identify clear steps to be taken to develop protection in the Member Association

Activities

9.30

10.00

Opening, Welcome, Introductions, Aims and Objectives/Program for workshop overall

9.45

10.30

Session 1. Thinking the unthinkable: Dealing with incidents

10.30

11.15

Session 2. What does ‘protection’ mean for our organization’? Introduce protection policy in IPPF. Brainstorm, begin to develop a vision of protection of young people in the organization

11.15

11.30

BREAK

11.30

12.30

Session 3. What should be done in our organization– steps so far, gaps, risks and obstacles

12.30

13.00

Session 4. Action planning/next steps, roles responsibilities; who does what

• Establishment of procedures for reporting, investigating and acting on cases of abuse of children and young people; • Induction and training for IPPF volunteers and staff on protecting children and young people;

• Consider obstacles and challenges to implementation of the protection policy and identify strategies and solutions to address these

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16 Creating a safe environment for children and young people in IPPF

Session 1. Thinking the unthinkable 1. Write each question or scenarios below on a separate piece of paper and put them all in a hat. 2. Ask a participant to choose a piece of paper, read it out, and answer the question. 3. Discuss the answer with the group; how would the other react? 4. Explain the importance of preventing such instances. 5. Ask participants for similar experiences in MA; what happened how did they react? What would you do if Scenario 1 A worker is researching the views of children/young people and is interviewing a 12 year old girl in your office. You have put this worker in touch with the young person, and you are present at the interview. During the interview the young person is asked questions about what makes them happy/sad etc. During this line of questioning the young girl makes a disclosure that she has been sexually abused recently by a male adult who lives near her. She is very distressed but is insisting that she does not want anyone else to know. Scenario 2 As part of your job, you are working in a youth club. A 17 year-old volunteer has been bragging about sleeping with a 14/15 year old who was his long-term girlfriend. Or hand out

Questions: What would you do if… 1. You find out that one of the youth volunteers is downloading child pornography from the net in your office. 2. You notice that one of the peer educator supervisors is making fun of a peer educator in front of other peer educators. 3. You get an anonymous letter that one of your peer educators has sexually harassed someone. 4. A young person who is participating in a youth volunteer meeting education session shows signs of abuse (bruises etc.). 5. A young volunteer confides in you that she /he is bullied by a staff or board member of the MA. Session 2: understanding protection and ‘creating safe environments’ • Discuss with participants what is meant by protection • Arguments to introduce a child protection policy: - this is a fundamental human rights issue - it is unethical to not work on it if we talk about SRHR - the issues are not unfamiliar but we don’t have the skills to deal with it - it needs to be mainstreamed into everything we do - harassment issues have been secretariat oriented – this policy needs to be different – it needs

to be implemented differently - it is fundamental for quality programmes and services • Discuss the importance of protection in youth friendly services and other no clinical activities. Address the importance of youth participation in the MA ( volunteers, in governance, as peer educators etc.) • Explain that the ethos of the Federation’s/MA’s work and its view on rights- based programming demand that a concerted effort be made to institutionalize a Child Protection Policy. There are a multitude of other reasons to support such an initiative. (hand out IPPF Policy on) • Ask participants to list other reasons to have a child protection policy in place. • Ask participants ( in groups) to think of a vision for creating a safe space in the organization • Discuss what should be the main elements should be included in the child protection policy.

Example of a vision for safe environment in the MA The Ma, in partnership with young people, aims to be at the cutting edge of creating safe environments for young people through: • Building an open and transparent culture in the MA that really makes a difference to the protection of young people • Informing and empowering young people in respect of their rights to protection and safe environments, and what to do if these rights and commitments are infringed/violated • Developing a set of measures and mechanisms for protection that everyone in the organization is aware of and supported to implement, including via specific resources • Informing and influencing other key actors beyond the MA the protection of young people and build safe environments A Child Protection Policy provides a framework of principles, standards and guidelines on which to base individual and organisational practice in relation to areas such as: • Creating a safe and ‘youth friendly’ organisation (in relation to environmental safety as well as protection against physical, psychological and sexual abuse) • Prevention of abuse • Guidelines for appropriate and inappropriate behaviour/attitude

• Personnel recruitment and training

Session 4. Next steps; action plan

• Recognizing, reporting and reacting to allegations of abuse

Discuss with the participants the next steps for introducing the policy and making it work:

• Guidelines for communications regarding children This policy is not solely directed towards sexual abuse, but rather encompasses all aspects of child protection including, but not limited to: disciplinary measures, health and safety measures, physical harm, working with information about children, proper recruitment and managerial procedures, and the ramifications of misconduct. Session 3; Challenges for introducing a safe environment/child protection policy on the organization Brainstorm with participants what are the challenges for introducing the policy. These could include: • Understanding, defining abuse in local context • Cultural issues/personal issues for staff • Awareness and Internalisation • Partnership working • Demands of protection policy - implementation/ support • Expectations on IPPF re protection role • Lack of capacity/competence • How to respond to issues/incidents • Work in groups to discuss these challenges and think of ways to overcome them

1. Assessment of the current situation. Use a tool ( annex 3) to get a better understanding of how the rights of young people to be safe are protected in the organization 2. Discuss the outcomes 3. Develop policy and mechanisms/ procedures when 4. Plan an introduction of the policy for staff, volunteers, young people (clients etc.), other organizations: meetings. Leaflets, posters ( for example for waiting room) 5. Make the policy part of the induction of new staff/volunteers 6. Plan regular monitoring and evaluation of the policy Develop an action plan and divide tasks and responsibilities 1. What needs to happen – concrete action points? 2. Who needs to be involved and how? 3. What supports are required ?

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Annex 3

Policies: Based on Setting the standard*

Below are some standards for child protection that seek to facilitate the discussion on child protection and to highlight important issues for consideration. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to use all the standards/ questions. We advise you to use the ones which are highlighted

The Philosophy

The organization has a child protection policy

Policies: Based on Setting the standard* The Philosophy

Yes

Comments/Evidence

The policy was developed together with young people and other stakeholders

Organizational mission and/or other statements of purpose and direction reflect concern for the protection of young people

A culture of safety exists that ensures the welfare of young people is paramount (ie. policies and procedures demonstrate a commitment to protecting young people from abuse)

The policy is approved and endorsed by the relevant management body (e.g. Senior Management Board, Executive Committee).

The policy is well publicized Staff and volunteers promote a culture that ensures young people are listened to and respected as individuals

The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) is clearly identified as the basis for child protection

There is a common understanding of what abuse is and what acceptable and unacceptable behaviour (annex 4)

Abiding by the policy is mandatory for all representatives

There is a designated person/s with clearly defined role and responsibilities in relation to child protection internally in the organization external to the organization

* Setting the standard: A common approach to Child Protection for international NGOs, Tearfund and National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC)

Yes

Comments/Evidence

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Policies (From â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Setting The Standardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;) The Philosophy

The policy is culturally sensitive and does not condone acts of maltreatment that are universally described as abusive

The child protection policy makes it clear that all young people have equal rights to be treated with respect and be protected from harm regardless of their ethnicity, religion, age, ability, gender, HIV & marital status, sexual orientation and socio- economic circumstances.

There are policies and procedures for recruiting representatives who have contact with young people and for assessing their suitability to work with young people (checklist)

Yes

Comments/Evidence

Introducing the policy The Philosophy

Yes

There is clear guidance on how the child protection policy will be adapted and applied practically in different circumstances.

There is a written plan showing what steps will be taken to safeguard young people, who is responsible for what actions and when these will be completed There is an induction process for all new representatives on the child protection policy and procedures 1. Staff 2. Volunteers 3. Young people 4. Partner organizations

All representatives are provided with opportunities to learn about how to recognize and respond to concerns about child abuse

Everyone in the organization knows who the designated person/s for child protection is/ are and how to contact them

There are minimum standards relating to child protection for when the organization works with and through partners. (The existence of a child protection policy within partner organizations is considered a pre-requisite for developing partnerships)

Designated child protection staff have access to specialist advice, support and information (such as social services department, police and emergency medical help)

There are clear and unambiguous procedures in place in respect of child protection, which provide step by step guidance on what action to take if there are concerns about a young personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s safety or welfare

External person/s are in place to oversee the implementation of the policy (a committee to come together quickly to act)

1. 2. 3. 4.

Comments/Evidence

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22 Creating a safe environment for children and young people in IPPF

Good Practice and Prevention

Good Practice and Prevention The Philosophy

There is a code of conduct

The code of conduct provides guidance on appropriate/ expected standards of behaviour of adults towards young people between young people

We conduct ourselves in a manner consistent with our position as a positive role model to young people and as a representative of IPPF

All staff and volunteers avoid acting in a way that shows unfair differential treatment and avoid favouring particular young people to the exclusion of others

We listen to young people, take their concerns seriously and allow them to have a say in the decisions that affect them

We avoid behaviour that is intended to shame, humiliate, belittle or degrade young people

At the start of every youth activity, all participants are reminded of the code of conduct and the related policies

Yes

Comments/Evidence

The Philosophy Where there is direct responsibility for running/providing activities, safeguarding measures are established to ensure young people are adequately supervised and protected at all times We get parental consent to involve young people We avoid being alone with young people where possible, and try to ensure that other adults are present when working with young people

There are well-publicised ways in which anyone who is a part of the organization can raise concerns, confidentially if necessary, about unacceptable behaviour by representatives Do we immediately raise any concerns for the safety or wellbeing of a child in accordance with the policy?

The consequences of breaching the code are clear and linked to organizational disciplinary procedures

All disciplinary measures/ sanctions are non violent and do not humiliate young people

Yes

Comments/Evidence

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24 Creating a safe environment for children and young people in IPPF

Programmes

Monitoring and Review The Philosophy

Yes

Arrangements are in place to regularly monitor compliance with child protection policies and procedures

Comments/Evidence

In addition to having the appropriate polices and procedures, child protection principles need to be integrated into the organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s day to day activities/programmes in order that they become a practical reality and a part of the organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work ethic.

Young people are involved in this monitoring process

Youth Participation The Philosophy All incidents, allegations of abuse and complaints are recorded and monitored

Steps are taken to seek the views of stakeholders on policies and procedures and how they are working 1. Young people 2. Parents 3. Staff 4. Volunteers 5. Partners

Formal mechanisms exist to use the experience of operating child protection procedures for updating the policy changing organizational practices

Policies and practices are reviewed at stated intervals, ideally at least every 3 years

Young volunteers are a part of developing and implementing the child protection policy and the related code of conduct 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

All young people involved in the organization are regularly made aware of their right to be safe from abuse

Youth volunteers know and abide by the code of conduct. They know how they should behave towards the other young people they work with What to do if they are at the receiving end of unacceptable behaviour (from harassment to exploitation)

Yes

Comments/Evidence

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26 Creating a safe environment for children and young people in IPPF

Services

Peer Education The Philosophy

Yes

Comments/Evidence

Peer educators discuss abuse and other child protection issues in their sessions. (what is abuse, how do you prevent it, what can be done etc)

Comments/Evidence

Yes

Comments/Evidence

Providers abide by the protocols that balance confidentiality with the principle that they should not be alone with young clients

Young Clients Yes

Comments/Evidence The Philosophy

Adults who work on youth programmes (eg; sexuality education programmes, outreach activities) with and for young people are made aware and regularly informed about the policies and procedures for protection. how they should interact with young people what to do if they suspect abuse

Service providers have links with relevant partner organizations for providing services in relation to child protection (list)

Education

Abuse and other child protection issues are discussed in education sessions

Yes

Service providers treat young clients with respect and ensure that they are not humiliated, degraded or judged

Peer educators know How they should behave towards the other young people they work with What to do if they are at the receiving end of unacceptable behaviour (from harassment to exploitation) What to do if one of their peers discloses a situation of violence to him/her

The Philosophy

Young clients of the MAs youth programmes are made aware of what to expect in terms of appropriate behaviour towards them (in the programme and in their lives) and what they can do in the event of harm

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28 Creating a safe environment for children and young people in IPPF

Promotion

Annex 4

Child protection goes beyond the internal workings of a Member Association but affects the association’s programmes as well. (Not just how we do things, but what we do)

Elements of codes of conduct

Promotion The Philosophy

Yes

Standards could be described in the following areas:

• Issues of Competence ( e.g. areas of working with young people, self development in this area) • What will happen in case of misconduct

he youth programme is based on a good understanding of the various forms of abuse that young people face

Advocacy and awareness raising initiatives are undertaken for ensuring a safe environment for young people within the community

Special interventions are in place to protect and support young people affected by these practices 1. Early marriage 2. FGM 3. Trafficking 4. Sexual abuse 5. Homophobic practice 6. Other

Comments/Evidence

• Issues of Responsibility (e.g. relationship with young people, confidentiality, safety)

The youth programme is based on a good understanding of the various reasons young people are vulnerable to sexual and reproductive ill health

Special attention is placed on raising community awareness on the following issues 1. Early marriage 2. FGM 3. Trafficking 4. Sexual abuse 5. Homophobic practice 6. Other

2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

• have a child/children with whom they are working to stay overnight at their home unsupervised • sleep in the same room or bed as a child with whom they are working

• What is the complaint procedure Codes of conduct can be made for staff, volunteers, peer educators, parents and other stakeholders

• condone, or participate in, behaviour of children which is illegal, unsafe or abusive

Example of Save the Children UK: Code Of Conduct

• act in ways intended to shame, humiliate, belittle or degrade children, or otherwise perpetrate any form of emotional abuse

Staff and others must never: • hit or otherwise physically assault or physically abuse children • develop physical/sexual relationships with children • develop relationships with children which could in any way be deemed exploitative or abusive • act in ways that may be abusive or may place a child at risk of abuse.

• behave physically in a manner which is inappropriate or sexually provocative

• do things for children of a personal nature that they can do for themselves

All Save the Children staff must sign up to and abide by this Code of Conduct. 1.

inappropriate, offensive or abusive

• use language, make suggestions or offer advice which is

It is important for all staff and others in contact with children to: • be aware of situations which may present risks and manage these • plan and organise the work and the workplace so as to minimise risks • as far as possible, be visible in working with children • ensure that a culture of openness exists to enable any issues or concerns to be raised and discussed • ensure that a sense of accountability exists between staff so that poor practice or potentially abusive behaviour does not go unchallenged • talk to children about their contact with staff or others and encourage them to raise any concerns

• discriminate against, show differential treatment, or favour particular children to the exclusion of others.

• empower children - discuss with them their rights, what is acceptable and unacceptable, and what they can do if there is a problem.

This is not an exhaustive or exclusive list. The principle is that staff should avoid actions or behaviour which may constitute poor practice or potentially abusive behaviour.

In general it is inappropriate to: • spend excessive time alone with children away from others • take children to your home, especially where they will be alone with you.

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Annex 5 Recognition of violating child protection policy issues; abuse and bullying

Child abuse can and does occur outside the family setting. Even for those experienced in working with child abuse, it is not always easy to recognize a situation where abuse may occur or has already taken place. The staff and volunteers, whether in a paid or voluntary capacity, are not always experts at such recognition. However they do have a responsibility to act if they have any concerns about the behaviour of someone (an adult or another child) towards a young person and to follow the procedures developed by the MA. MAs should therefore encourage and expect staff/volunteers to discuss any concern they may have about the welfare of a person immediately with a designated person. Abuse Abuse can and does occur in a wide range of settings, including sport and can happen wherever there are young people. The effects of abuse can be so damaging and if untreated, they may impact upon a person into adulthood. For example, a person who has been abused as a child may find it difficult or impossible to maintain stable, trusting relationships, they may become involved with drugs or prostitution, Disabled young people There have been a number of studies, which suggest children and/or adults with disabilities are at an increased risk of abuse. Various factors contribute to this, such as stereotyping, prejudice, discrimination, isolation and a powerlessness to protect themselves, or adequately communicate that abuse has occurred.

Race and racism

Emotional abuse

Young people from different ethnic/religious or cultural groups are likely to have experienced harassment, racial discrimination and institutional racism

This refers to the persistent emotional ill treatment of a young person such as to cause severe and persistent adverse effects on the young person’s emotional development. It may involve conveying to young people that they are worthless or unloved, inadequate, or valued only insofar as they meet the needs of another person. It may feature age or developmentally inappropriate expectations being imposed on young people. It may involve causing young people to feel frightened or in danger by being constantly shouted at, threatened or taunted, which may make the child very nervous and withdrawn. Some level of emotional abuse is involved in all types of ill treatment of a young person. Emotional abuse in MAs may occur if peer educators or young clients are subjected to unfair criticism, name calling, and sarcasm, bullying or unrealistic pressure to behave in certain ways.

Physical abuse Where adults (both male and female) physically hurt or injure young people by hitting, shaking, or otherwise causing physical harm to a young person. Sexual abuse This is when girls and boys are abused by adults or peers (both male and female) who use young people to meet their own sexual needs. This could include full sexual intercourse, masturbation, oral sex, anal intercourse and fondling. Showing young people pornographic material (books, videos, pictures) or talking to young people in a sexually explicit manner is also a form of sexual abuse. In our training sessions, some participatory methods and techniques that involve physical contact with young people could potentially create situations where sexual abuse may go unnoticed. The power of the educators, peer leader over young people including peer educators, if misused, may also lead to abusive situations developing.

Indicators of abuse Indications that a child may be being abused include the following: • unexplained or suspicious injuries such as bruising, cuts or burns, particularly if situated in a part of the body not normally prone to such injuries • an injury for which the explanation seems inconsistent • the young person describes what appears to be an abusive act involving him/her • someone else (a young person or adult) expresses concern about the welfare of another young person • unexplained changes in

behaviour (eg becoming very quiet, withdrawn or displaying sudden outbursts of temper) • inappropriate sexual awareness engaging in sexually explicit behaviour • distrust of adults, particularly those with whom a close relationship would normally be expected • has difficulty in making friends • is prevented from socializing with other young people It should be recognized that this list is not exhaustive and the presence of one or more of the indicators is not proof that abuse is actually taking place. A good working relationship with parents will help to identify any issues. It is not the responsibility of those working in the MA to decide that child abuse is occurring but it is their responsibility to act on any concerns.

Bullying

Forms of bullying

It is important to recognize that in some cases of abuse, it may not always be an adult abusing a young person. It can occur that the abuser may be a young person, for example in the case of bullying. Bullying may be seen as deliberately hurtful behaviour, usually repeated over a period of time, where it is difficult for those bullied to defend themselves. Bullying is defined as:

There are various forms of bullying:

• Repeated (systematic) aggressive verbal, psychological or physical conduct by an • individual or group against another person or persons Although anyone can be the target of bullying, victims are typically shy, sensitive and perhaps anxious or insecure. Sometimes they are singled out for physical reasons being overweight, physically small, having a disability or belonging to a different race, faith or culture. Girls and boys can be bullies although it seems to be more conspicuous in boys. Although bullying often takes place in schools, research shows it can and does occur anywhere where there is inadequate supervision - on the way to and from school, at a sporting event, in the youth centre ad other youth activities. Bullies come from all walks of life; they bully for a variety of different reasons and may even have been abused. Typically, bullies can have low self-esteem, be excitable, aggressive and jealous. Crucially, they have learned how to gain power over others and there is increasing evidence to suggest that this abuse of power can lead to crime.

• physical: e.g. pushing, hitting, kicking, pinching and theft • verbal: e.g. name-calling, spreading rumors, racist or homophobic taunts, • constant teasing and sarcasm, threats, graffiti and gestures • emotional: e.g. tormenting, ridiculing, humiliating and ignoring Damage caused by bullying The damage inflicted by bullying can frequently be underestimated. It can cause considerable distress to young people, to the extent that it affects their health and development or, at the extreme, causes them significant harm (including self harm). There are a number of signs that may indicate that a young person or disabled adult is being bullied: behavioural changes such as reduced concentration and/or becoming withdrawn, clingy, depressed, tearful, emotionally up and down, reluctance to go to school, training or peer education/ youth centre activities • a drop off in performance • physical signs such as stomach aches, headaches, difficulty in sleeping, scratching and bruising, damaged clothes and bingeing (e.g. on food, cigarettes or alcohol) • a shortage of money or frequent loss of possessions

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32 Creating a safe environment for children and young people in IPPF

Annex 6

Annex 7

Responding to a direct disclosure from a young person

Responding to allegations within the MA

If a child or young person informs you directly that he/she, or another young person, is concerned about someone’s behaviour towards them (this is termed a ‘disclosure’), the person receiving information should: • react calmly so as not to frighten or deter the young person; • tell the young person he/ she is not to blame and that he/she was right to tell; • take what the young person says seriously, recognizing the difficulties inherent in interpreting what is said by a child who has a speech disability and/ or differences in language; • keep questions to the absolute minimum to ensure a clear and accurate understanding of what has been said;

• reassure the child but do not make promises of confidentiality, which might not be feasible in the light of subsequent developments; • make a full record of what had been said, heard and/or seen as soon as possible). It may not be that all young or vulnerable players are able to express themselves verbally. Communication difficulties may mean that it is hard for them to complain or be understood. Sometimes it is difficult to distinguish the signs of abuse from the symptoms of some disabilities or conditions, in relation to the nature of an individual’s impairment.

Actions to avoid: The following actions must be avoided when responding to a disclosure. The person receiving the disclosure should not: panic allow your shock or distaste to show do not ask questions or probe for more information than is offered other than to clarify that you have understood what has been said speculate or make assumptions make negative comments about the alleged abuser approach the alleged abuser make promises or agree to keep secrets

Not everyone working for the MA or affiliated organizations in any capacity, paid or voluntary, is in the position to decide whether or not child abuse is taking place or to investigate it. However it is the responsibility of everyone to ensure that action is taken to ensure that a child is protected appropriately. If a young person informs you directly that he/she is being abused within the MA environment OR through your own observations or through a third party you become aware of possible abuse or poor practice within the MA environment, you must react immediately. Possible abuse situation If a young person says or indicates that he/ she is being abused, or information is obtained or observations are made which gives concern that a young person is being abused, you must react immediately. Ensure the safety of the young person - if the young person needs immediate medical treatment, take the young person to hospital or call an ambulance, inform doctors of concerns and ensure they are aware it is a child protection issue; If possible, seek advice immediately from the local Social Services or Police who will advise on the action to be taken, including advice on contacting parents. Make a full and factual record of events

Possible outcomes Where there is a complaint of abuse against a member of staff or volunteer, it depends whether the practice has been minor or serious; • Minor complaints can be dealt with within the organization ( if there is a procedure), including a disciplinary process, fining need for training and capacity building or removal from position • Following action for serious practices may involve the police or social services ( when existent) Action to help the victim and prevent bullying • take all signs of bullying very seriously • encourage all children to speak and share their concerns. Help the victim to speak out and tell the person in charge/someone in authority. Create an open environment • investigate all allegations and take action to ensure the victim is safe. Speak with the victim and the bully(ies) separately • reassure the victim that you can be trusted and will help them, although you cannot promise to tell no one else • keep records of what is said (what happened, by whom, when)

Sharing concerns with parents or guardians There is always a commitment to work in partnership with parents or carers where there are concerns about their children, however in the case where the parents or guardians of the person are alleged to have been abused other procedures should be set in place Action towards the bully(ies): • talk with the bully(ies), explain the situation, and try to get the bully(ies) to understand the consequences of their behaviour. Seek an apology to the victim(s) • inform the bully(ies) parents • insist on the return of borrowed items and that the bully(ies) compensate the victim • provide support to the victim impose sanctions as necessary • encourage and support the bully(ies) to change behaviour • hold meetings with the families to report on progress • inform all organization members of action taken • keep a written record of action taken Never allow the bully to remain and the victim to leave the programme

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34 Creating a safe environment for children and young people in IPPF

Annex 8

Annex 9

Toolkits:

Relevant paragraphs of IPPF’s Declaration for Sexual Rights (abridged version)

Keeping Children Safe: Standards for Child Protection, The Keeping Children Safe Coalition:

Article 1:

Article 3:

www.keepingchildrensafe.org.uk/index.php?option=com_phocadownload&view=section&id=1:standards&Itemid=4

Right to equality, equal protection of the law and freedom from all forms of discrimination based on sex, sexuality or gender

The rights to life, liberty, security of the person and bodily integrity

Keeping Children Safe: How to Implement the Standards, The Keeping Children Safe Coalition: www.keepingchildrensafe.org.uk/index.php?option=com_phocadown load&view=section&id=3:implementation&Itemid=4 Keeping Children Safe: Training for Child Protection, The Keeping Children Safe Coalition:

• Everyone is born free and equal in dignity and rights and must be protected against discrimination based on sexuality, sex or gender.

www.keepingchildrensafe.org.uk/index.php?option=com_phocadownload&view=section&id=2:training&Itemid=4

• All rights must be granted to everyone without exception.

Safeguarding Children and Young People: A Toolkit for General Practice, Royal College of General Practitioners and National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children:

• Everyone must be given the possibility to make choices and decisions about their own lives.

www.rcgp.org.uk/PDF/CIR_Toolkit%20document%20final%20edit.pdf

Article 2: The right to participation for all persons, regardless of sex, sexuality or gender • Everyone should be able to live in a world where they are able to participate actively, freely and meaningfully in all areas of human life. • Everyone should be able to influence decisions concerning matters that directly affect their well being. • Young people should have the right to take an active role in the processes of change in their societies. • Everyone should be able to take part in public and political life. • To enable full participation, everyone should be able to travel freely both abroad and within their own country.

• Everyone has the right to life, liberty and to be free from torture and cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment; this includes the right to exercise one’s sexuality free of violence or coercion. • People cannot be harassed or killed as a means to protect the reputation or honour of a family or a community. • No one should be harassed or killed because of their sexual behaviour. • The medical care of women should never be based on any consideration other than ensuring her well being and right to health. • No woman shall be compelled to have children or not to have children. • Everyone has the right to be free from harmful customs, practices or traditions, including female genital mutilation and forced or early marriage. • Everyone has the right to be free from sexually related violence, inside or outside marriage. • Everyone, including sex workers of any gender, has the right to be free from the risk of violence created by stigma and discrimination based on their sex, sexuality or gender. • No one shall be arrested or imprisoned because they had consensual sex. • Everyone shall not be subjected to violence, abuse or harassment on the basis of their sexual choices. • All migrants must have access to protection from bodily harm and violence based on their sexual and gender expressions.

• Everyone has the right to seek and enjoy asylum and protection from persecution on the basis of their sex, sexual orientation or HIV status. • No one should be deported if they have a well-founded fear of persecution based on their sexuality or HIV status. Article 6: Right to freedom of thought, opinion and expression; right to association • Everyone has the right to express ideas of sexuality without arbitrary interference or limitations based on dominant cultural beliefs. • Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion, taking into consideration the evolving capacity of children. • Everyone has the right to explore their sexuality free from fear, to express their desires while always taking into consideration the rights of others. • All persons, especially women, have the right to express themselves freely in whatever way they choose without restrictions. • Everyone has the right to seek, receive and impart information with regard to human rights respecting the rights of others and the evolving capacity of children including sexual rights. • Everyone has the right to meet, associate and assemble with others peacefully. This includes the right to join and create groups with the purpose of informing others about sexual rights.

From choice, a world of possibilities

Creating a safe environment for children and young people in IPPF Published in December 2009 by the International Planned Parenthood Federation IPPF 4 Newhams Row London SE1 3UZ United Kingdom tel +44 (0)20 7939 8200 fax +44 (0)20 7939 8300 email info@ippf.org web www.ippf.org UK Registered Charity No. 229476

This document intends to support those who wish to put in place child protection policies and procedures by setting out the basic steps which need to be followed and providing resources for further information. We are grateful to the Consortium for Street Children, the Keeping Children Safe Coalition and Plan International for sharing their resources and expertise and facilitating this important work.