1. Our Commitment
Abandoned Child South Sudan (ACSS) is committed to creating and maintaining a safe environment for all children we work with. We believe that every child has the right to live free from violence, abuse, and exploitation.
We have zero tolerance for:
- Physical abuse or violence against children
- Sexual abuse or exploitation of children
- Emotional or psychological abuse
- Neglect or abandonment
- Child labor or trafficking
- Any form of discrimination against children
2. Scope of Policy
This policy applies to:
- All ACSS staff members (full-time, part-time, and contract)
- All volunteers and interns
- Board members and governance bodies
- Contractors and consultants working with ACSS
- Partners and partner organizations
- Visitors to ACSS facilities or programs
3. Key Principles
Child First
The safety and wellbeing of children is always the primary consideration in every decision.
Speak Up
Everyone has a responsibility to report concerns or suspicions of abuse or exploitation.
Listen & Believe
We listen to children and take their concerns seriously. We believe what children tell us.
Zero Tolerance
Any breach of this policy will result in immediate action, including dismissal and referral to authorities.
4. Code of Conduct
All ACSS personnel must:
- Treat children with respect and dignity at all times
- Maintain appropriate boundaries with children
- Never be alone with a child behind closed doors
- Never use physical punishment or discipline
- Report any concerns immediately
- Complete mandatory safeguarding training
- Obtain background checks and police clearance where required
5. Reporting Procedure
Emergency Reporting
24/7 Child Protection Hotline: +211 912 345 679
Email: safeguarding@acss.org
All reports are treated confidentially and investigated immediately.
- Immediate Response: Ensure the child's safety is the top priority.
- Report: Contact the Safeguarding Officer or emergency hotline.
- Document: Record all details accurately and confidentially.
- Investigate: A thorough investigation is conducted by trained personnel.
- Follow-up: Support for the child and action against perpetrators.
6. Recruitment & Staffing
ACSS is committed to safe recruitment practices:
- All staff undergo background checks
- Reference checks are conducted for all positions
- Safeguarding is included in all job descriptions
- Staff receive safeguarding training on induction and annually
- Signing the safeguarding policy is mandatory for all staff
7. Working with Partners
All partner organizations must:
- Sign a partnership agreement that includes safeguarding commitments
- Have their own safeguarding policies in place
- Provide training to their staff
- Report any safeguarding concerns to ACSS immediately
8. Photography & Media
ACSS follows strict guidelines for using images of children:
- Written consent is obtained from the child and guardian
- Children's identities are protected where appropriate
- No images are used that could cause harm or distress
- Images are stored securely and not shared without consent
9. Contact Us
For any safeguarding questions or concerns, contact:
Safeguarding Officer
Email: safeguarding@acss.org
Phone: +211 912 345 679
10. Policy Review
This policy is reviewed annually or whenever significant changes occur. All feedback is welcome and considered in our continuous improvement process.