“Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.” – Matthew 18:5
1. Purpose of the Policy
The purpose of this Child Protection Policy is to:
- Ensure the safety, dignity, and wellbeing of all children who participate in or benefit from CKG programs.
- Guide staff, volunteers, and partners in safeguarding children from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
- Promote a protective environment based on Christian values, recognizing all children as Citizens in the Kingdom of God.
2. Scope of the Policy
This policy applies to:
- All staff, board members, volunteers, interns, and consultants working with CKG.
- Any person involved in CKG programs, activities, events, or projects.
- All children under the age of 18 who come into contact with CKG programs.
3. Guiding Principles
CKG is committed to:
- The best interest of the child at all times.
- Zero tolerance for abuse of any kind—physical, emotional, sexual, or neglect.
- Upholding children’s rights as outlined in the South African Constitution and the Children’s Act.
- Promoting a culture of accountability, respect, and safety within all our work.
4. Definitions
- Child: Any person under the age of 18.
- Abuse: Any form of harm or maltreatment to a child, including physical, emotional, sexual, or neglect.
- Neglect: Failure to meet a child’s basic physical and emotional needs.
- Exploitation: Using a child for labor, sexual acts, or personal gain.
5. Responsibilities
5.1 CKG Leadership (Board and Management)
- Ensure child protection policies are implemented, reviewed annually, and accessible to all.
- Lead by example in promoting a child-safe environment.
5.2 Staff and Volunteers
- Must sign a Child Protection Code of Conduct before working with children.
- Report any suspected or actual abuse to the Designated Child Protection Officer.
- Never be alone with a child in private or isolated settings.
- Avoid physical punishment, verbal abuse, or any behavior that degrades a child.
6. Prevention Measures
- Conduct background checks and request references for all staff and volunteers working with children.
- Train all staff and volunteers on child safeguarding and reporting procedures.
- Ensure programs are designed to be safe, inclusive, and empowering for children.
7. Reporting and Response Procedures
- Any suspicion or disclosure of child abuse must be reported immediately to the Designated Child Protection Officer (DCPO).
- The DCPO will:
- Ensure the child is safe and receives care.
- Record and report the case to relevant authorities (social services or SAPS) as per South African law.
- Maintain confidentiality and document the process accurately.
8. Confidentiality
- All reports and investigations will be handled sensitively.
- Information will only be shared with those who need to know to protect the child.
9. Code of Conduct (Summary)
All CKG staff and volunteers must:
- Treat all children with respect and dignity.
- Use language that uplifts and does not humiliate or shame.
- Never engage in inappropriate physical contact, sexual behavior, or conversations with children.
- Always work in pairs or groups when interacting with children (the “Two Adult Rule”).
- Report any misconduct immediately.
10. Monitoring and Review
- This policy will be reviewed annually by the Board.
- Changes will be communicated to all staff and volunteers.
11. Faith Foundation
CKG believes that every child is a beloved citizen in the Kingdom of God. We are accountable to God for how we treat His children. Therefore, we commit to creating environments where children can grow, thrive, and be protected from harm.
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