Prakrtireva Saranam Foundation is committed to creating a safe environment for all people who engage with our programmes, including children, vulnerable adults, community members, and volunteers. This Safeguarding Policy outlines our approach to preventing harm and responding to concerns.
Purpose
This policy provides a framework for the protection of vulnerable individuals from abuse, neglect, and exploitation in all Foundation activities, including tree plantation drives, community programmes, and school partnerships.
Scope
This policy applies to all Board members, employees, volunteers, consultants, contractors, and partner organisations working with or on behalf of the Foundation.
Definitions
- Vulnerable person: Any individual who may be at greater risk of harm due to age, disability, illness, social circumstances, or power imbalances.
- Safeguarding: Actions taken to promote the welfare of vulnerable people and protect them from harm.
Safe Recruitment
- All roles involving contact with vulnerable people require thorough reference checks and identity verification.
- Background checks are conducted for staff and volunteers in direct programme delivery.
- Job descriptions and volunteer role profiles clearly state safeguarding responsibilities.
Training Requirements
- All staff and volunteers receive safeguarding awareness training during induction.
- Refresher training is provided annually.
- Programme leads receive advanced training on recognising signs of abuse and managing disclosures.
Standards of Conduct
- Always act in the best interest of vulnerable individuals.
- Never engage in behaviour that could be perceived as intimidating, threatening, or exploitative.
- Maintain professional boundaries at all times.
- Do not share personal contact details with beneficiaries without organisational approval.
Incident Response
- Any safeguarding concern must be reported immediately to the designated Safeguarding Lead or via email to info@prakrtirevasaranam.org.
- The Safeguarding Lead will assess the concern within 24 hours and determine next steps.
- Serious cases will be escalated to local authorities and law enforcement.
- All incidents are documented confidentially and reviewed by the Board quarterly.
Confidential Reporting
- Reports can be made by anyone, including beneficiaries, community members, staff, and volunteers.
- Anonymous reporting is supported.
- No individual will face retaliation for raising a genuine safeguarding concern.
Review
This policy is reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective and compliant with applicable laws.
Contact
For safeguarding concerns or questions, email info@prakrtirevasaranam.org.