Child Protection Policy

Child Protection Policy
Happy Planet Foundation
Effective Date: 9 November 2024
Last Reviewed: 9 June 2025

Purpose

The Happy Planet Foundation is committed to safeguarding the welfare and rights of all children involved in its programs, activities, and operations. This Child Protection Policy outlines our zero-tolerance approach to child abuse, exploitation, and harm, and establishes clear guidelines for all staff, volunteers, visitors, vendors, donors, and partners to ensure a safe and protective environment for children.

Scope

This policy applies to:

All employees, volunteers, and interns of Happy Planet Foundation.
Visitors, vendors, contractors, and consultants working with or on behalf of the Foundation.
Donors, partners, and any external individuals or organizations interacting with the Foundation’s programs involving children.

Definitions

Child: Any person under the age of 18 years.
Child Abuse: Any form of physical, emotional, or sexual harm, neglect, or exploitation of a child.
Child Protection: Measures and structures to prevent and respond to abuse, neglect, exploitation, and violence against children.
Staff: All employees, volunteers, interns, and consultants working with the Foundation.

Guiding Principles

Best Interests of the Child: The welfare of the child is the primary consideration in all actions and decisions.
Zero Tolerance: The Foundation has zero tolerance for any form of child abuse, exploitation, or harm.
Non-Discrimination: All children are entitled to equal protection, regardless of gender, caste, religion, ethnicity, or disability.
Confidentiality: All concerns and allegations of child abuse will be handled with strict confidentiality.
Accountability: All individuals associated with the Foundation are accountable for upholding this policy.

Code of Conduct for Staff, Volunteers, and Visitors

All individuals associated with the Foundation must adhere to the following:

Respect and Dignity: Treat all children with respect, dignity, and fairness.
Prohibited Behaviors:
- No physical punishment, humiliation, or emotional abuse.
- No inappropriate physical contact or communication.
- No use of offensive, discriminatory, or sexually suggestive language.
- No exploitation or use of children for personal gain.
Supervision: Avoid being alone with a child. Ensure all interactions are observable and interruptible.
Reporting: Immediately report any concerns or suspicions of child abuse to the designated Child Protection Officer (CPO).

Recruitment and Screening

Background Checks: All staff, volunteers, and contractors must undergo thorough background checks, including police verification and reference checks.
Training: All individuals working with children must complete mandatory child protection training.
Commitment: All staff and volunteers must sign a declaration agreeing to abide by this policy.

Visitors and Vendors

Authorization: Visitors and vendors must obtain prior authorization before entering areas where children are present.
Supervision: Visitors and vendors must be accompanied by a staff member at all times.
Code of Conduct: Visitors and vendors must adhere to the Foundation’s Code of Conduct and Child Protection Policy.

Donors and Partners

Awareness: Donors and partners must be informed of the Foundation’s Child Protection Policy.
Engagement: Donors and partners must not engage directly with children without prior approval and supervision.
Compliance: Donors and partners must comply with all child protection guidelines during their involvement with the Foundation.

Reporting and Response Mechanisms

Designated Officer: The Foundation has appointed a Child Protection Officer (CPO) to oversee the implementation of this policy.
Reporting Channels: Concerns or allegations of child abuse can be reported to the CPO via:
- Email: team@happyplanetfoundation.org
- Phone: 7259825361
- In-person: #35, Andhra Muniyappa Layout, Chelekere, B’lore-43
Confidentiality: All reports will be handled confidentially and sensitively.
Investigation: The CPO will initiate a prompt and thorough investigation into all allegations.
Support: The Foundation will provide support to the child and their family, including counseling and legal assistance if required.

Training and Awareness

Staff Training: All staff and volunteers will receive regular training on child protection principles and procedures.
Children’s Awareness: Children involved in the Foundation’s programs will be educated about their rights and how to report concerns.
Community Awareness: The Foundation will engage with parents and the community to raise awareness about child protection.

Monitoring and Review

Regular Audits: The Foundation will conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with this policy.
Policy Review: This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect best practices and legal requirements.

Consequences of Violations

Any individual found in violation of this policy will face disciplinary action, including termination of employment or contract, and legal action if warranted.

Contact Information

For any questions or concerns regarding this policy, please contact:
Child Protection Officer (CPO)
Happy Planet Foundation
Email: satish@happyplanetfoundation.org
Phone: +91 7259825361

GIVE

GIVE

CHILD PROTECTION POLICY

Add Impact To Your Inbox