Contact Us:
Plot 253, off Defense Quarters, Garki Area 1, Durumi 1, Abuja.
Landmark: The Apostolic Church, Area 1. Federal Capital Territory.
Tel: +2349070051404
Email: info@famefoundationwg.org
A Not-Profitable Organisation set up to formulate programmes through several initiatives to mentor, empower and advocate for women and girls.
FAME foundation was established to solicit, encourage and advance the social, emotional and economic wellbeing of women and girls as well as formulate programmes within the framework of national development plan with a view to enhancing the participation of women and advocate for gender parity in the society. FAME foundation firmly believe that the entire nation, businesses, communities and groups can benefit from the implementation of programs and policies that adopt the notion of women empowerment.
MAIN CONTACTS
E-mail: info@famefoundationwg.org
Tel No: 09070051404
Lead Protection Officer
Name: Aderonke Bello
Email: aderonke@famefoundationwg.org
FAME Safeguarding Officer
Ebunoluwa Oni
E-mail: Ebunoluwa@famefoundationwg.org
FAME Hub, Plot 253, off Defense Quarters, Garki Area 1, Durumi 1, Abuja. Landmark: The Apostolic Church,
Area 1.
Program Manager
Kemisola Ibitoye
E-mail: Kemisola@famefoundationwg.org
FAME Hub, Plot 253, off Defense Quarters, Garki Area 1, Durumi 1, Abuja. Landmark: The Apostolic Church,
Area 1.
INDEX
Introduction……………………………………………4
Definitions………………………………………………7
Code of Conduct……………………………………….9
Reporting of Safeguarding Concerns………………….11
Child Protection Policy…………………………………14
Dissemination……………………………………………15
Monitoring and Review…………………………………15
Commitment to Child Safeguarding Policy……………..16
FAME Incident Report Form…………………………….17
INTRODUCTION
This document outlines the Child Protection Policy for FAME Foundation for Women and Girls
Empowerment. It is designed to ensure the safety and well-being of all children involved in our projects and
activities. The policy is endorsed by the organization‟s leadership and applies to all staff, project team
members, guests interacting with project beneficiaries, board of trustees members, volunteers, and interns,
whether working full-time, part-time, or on a temporary basis.
The policy will be actively promoted by those in leadership positions to ensure that it is clearly communicated
and understood by everyone involved with the organization. All staff members, regardless of their employment
status, must familiarize themselves with and adhere to the policy. Project team members, who are directly
involved with children or oversee activities related to them, will receive specialized training to understand their
responsibilities under this policy. Guests visiting our projects or interacting with beneficiaries will also be
briefed on the policy and expected to follow its guidelines to maintain a safe environment.
Members of the board of trustees are required to support and ensure the implementation of the Child Protection
Policy at all levels of the organization. Volunteers and interns, whether engaged on a short-term or long-term
basis, are also expected to adhere to the policy and will receive appropriate orientation and training relevant to
their roles.
The policy includes guidelines for appropriate conduct, mandatory training programs, established procedures
for reporting concerns or incidents of abuse, and requirements for background checks. It also involves regular
monitoring and reviews to ensure the policy remains effective and relevant. By adhering to this policy, FAME
Foundation demonstrates its commitment to safeguarding children and upholding the highest standards of child
protection.
PURPOSE
This organization strictly adheres to protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of children while engaging with
them. We do not undertake any activities with children without explicit written consent from their parents or
guardians. Consent forms are detailed and include information about the activities, potential risks, and our safety
measures, and must be signed before any child participates.
Throughout our projects, parents and guardians remain fully responsible for their children’s welfare. We maintain
open communication with them to keep them informed about project activities and any observations or concerns.
Risk assessments are conducted prior to any engagement, and we implement safety protocols, including supervision
by trained staff.
In case of emergencies, we ensure we have up-to-date contact information for parents and guardians, and we report
any incidents immediately. Feedback from parents and guardians is actively sought to ensure our activities meet
their expectations and benefit their children.
Records of parental consents, observations, and communications are kept confidential and used solely for
safeguarding and project management purposes. This approach ensures that all interactions with children are
conducted with respect for their safety and the crucial role of their families.
The purpose of this policy is to:
The primary purpose of this policy is to safeguard children who receive services from FAME Foundation by
implementing comprehensive measures to prevent abuse, neglect, and exploitation. It ensures that all activities
and interactions are conducted in a secure and safe environment, with protocols in place to protect children
from harm and provide immediate support in the event of any concerns.
This policy provides clear principles and guidelines for staff, volunteers, and anyone coming into contact with
beneficiaries. It establishes expected standards of behavior, defines unacceptable conduct, and outlines
procedures for reporting any concerns or incidents of abuse. Comprehensive training and orientation are
provided to ensure that all individuals are well-informed and comply with these safeguarding standards.
The policy promotes open and effective communication between parents, guardians, children, staff, and
volunteers. It ensures that there are transparent channels for sharing information and feedback, enabling all
stakeholders to be actively involved in the safeguarding process. This fosters trust and collaboration, making
sure that concerns are addressed promptly and appropriately.
The policy aims to create a nurturing environment where children feel secure, confident, and empowered. It
supports their emotional and personal development by promoting positive interactions and providing a safe
space for growth. Activities and programs are designed to enhance children‟s self-esteem, resilience, and
independence while maintaining their safety and well-being.
The policy outlines preventive measures to identify and mitigate risks of abuse and neglect. This includes
regular risk assessments, staff training on recognizing signs of abuse, and establishing clear procedures for
intervention. By proactively addressing potential risks, the policy helps to prevent incidents before they occur.
The policy ensures compliance with relevant legal and ethical standards for child protection. It incorporates best
practices and statutory requirements to align with national and international safeguarding regulations. This
commitment to legal compliance upholds the organization‟s responsibility to provide a safe environment for
children.
The policy fosters a culture of safety and respect within the organization. It encourages ethical behavior,
accountability, and transparency among all members. By embedding child protection principles into the
organizational culture, the policy helps to ensure that safeguarding is a fundamental aspect of all activities and
interactions.
The policy provides clear procedures for responding to and supporting children affected by abuse or neglect.
This includes immediate intervention, investigation, and providing access to appropriate support services. It ensures that affected children receive the help they need and that incidents are handled with sensitivity and
urgency.
The policy includes mechanisms for regular monitoring and evaluation of safeguarding practices. This ensures
that policies and procedures are effective and up-to-date, and that any issues are identified and addressed
promptly. Continuous improvement is a key focus, ensuring that the organization remains responsive to
emerging safeguarding challenges.
LEGAL FRAMEWORK
This document is written in accordance with the;
FAME Foundation recognizes that:
The rights, welfare and safety of the child is paramount as enshrined inthe Child‟s Rights Acts, 2003 and should
always be promoted:
economic background have a right to equal protection from all forms of abuse, including suspected
abuse or neglect.
dependency, communication needs or other issues.
agencies is essential in promoting children‟s welfare.
the interests of children, follow the policy outlined, and ensure same opportunities are available to
everyone and that all differences will be treated with respect.
policies and practices must be inclusive and equitable, ensuring that every child is equally safeguarded.
and assistance, regardless of their social or economic status.
that all children benefit from the same level of care and protection.DEFINITIONS
suffering, or likely to suffer, significant harm as a result of abuse or neglect. It involvesmeasures and
structures designed to prevent and respond to abuse and neglect.
safeguarding the development of the child through the prevention of all forms of abuse against children,
coordinating response and investigation of suspected abuse and neglect and for providingcare and protection
to children found to be in need.
providing advice and support to staff where they have a concern about an individual child or who want
advice about child protection policy.
abuse or neglect.
with an object, choking, smothering, trying to drown, burning intentionally, or using or threatening to
use a gun, knife or other weapon, regardless of whether or not it resulted in obvious physical or mental
injury. It is not focused on acts of discipline, although many of those perpetratingthe violence may be doing
so in the name of “discipline”.
taken to promote the welfare of children and protect them from harm. Safeguarding is protecting
children from maltreatment; preventing impairment of children‟s health and development; ensuring that
children grow up in circumstances consistent with the provision of safe and effective care; taking action to
enable all children to have the best outcomes.
to suffer, significant harm. This is the threshold that justifies compulsory intervention in family life in the
best interests and promotion of the welfare of a child. Significant harm can be considered as the severity of
maltreatment, the degree, extent, duration and frequency of abuse and neglect; the extentof premeditation,
presence or degree of threat, coercion, sadism and bizarre or unusual elements.
responding to child concerns/referrals.
activities, whether or not they are aware of what is happening. It is not necessary for the child to be aware
that the activity is sexual and the apparent consent of the child is irrelevant. Sexual abuse can be,but is not
limited to:
or depictions of sexual or suggestive behaviors or comments.
and emotional functioning or development. This can include;
Patterns of isolation, degradation, constant criticism or negative comparison to others.
Isolating, corrupting, exploiting or terrorizing a child can also be emotional abuse.
Exposure to family or intimate partner violence.
Neglect –Neglect is the most common form of abuse and it has the potential of seriously impairing the child‟s health or development. Forms of Neglect include;
Physical– Looking rough and uncared for, dirty, without appropriate clothing, underweight, notproviding the necessities of life like a warm place, food and clothing.
Emotional– Not providing comfort, attention and love.
Neglectful supervision– Leaving children without someone safe looking after them, no safehome to return
Medical Neglect– Failure to present child for timely immunization, persistent nappy rash or skindisorders or not taking care of health needs.
Educational or Vocational Neglect– Allowing chronic truancy, failure to enroll in school or vocational
training centers or inattention to education needs).
WHO DOES THE POLICY APPLY TO?
The Child Protection Policy applies to the following individuals associated with FAME Foundation for Women and
Girls Empowerment:
adhere to the policy. This includes administrative, operational, and managerial staff.
that interact directly with children or oversee activities involving them, must comply with the policy
guidelines.
This includes those assisting with events, activities, or any other roles where they may come into contact
with children.
8follow the policy. They will receive appropriate orientation and training to understand their responsibilities
regarding child protection.
implementation of the Child Protection Policy. They play a crucial role in overseeing and ensuring that the
policy is upheld at all levels of the organization.
informed about the Child Protection Policy and adhere to its guidelines during their visit.
particularly those who have contact with children, are expected to comply with the policy. This includes
individuals or companies providing services such as education, healthcare, or other support directly
involving children.
projects involving children are required to adhere to the Child Protection Policy. This ensures that all
collaborative efforts align with our safeguarding standards.
CODE OF CONDUCT
FAME Foundation requires all staff, project team members, volunteers, interns, board of trustees, guests, partners,
contractors, and service providers to comply with this Code of Conduct. Everyone covered by this Code commits to
respecting, promoting, upholding, and protecting the rights and well-being of children at all times.
In addition, those working in Nigeria pledge to uphold, respect, and promote the principles outlined in both the
Convention on the Rights of the Child and Nigeria’s Child Rights Act of 2003. The Child Rights Act, which was
enacted in 2003, incorporates the human rights granted to individuals under Nigeria‟s 1999 Constitution and extends
these rights specifically to children.
Acceptable Behavior and Conduct at FAME Foundation
service providers are expected to treat children, colleagues, and all stakeholders with respect and dignity.
This includes using positive language, maintaining a professional demeanor, and showing consideration for
others’ diverse backgrounds and beliefs.
children. This means engaging with children in a professional manner and avoiding behavior that could be
interpreted as inappropriate or overly familiar.
9guardians are respectful and clear. Always explain the purpose and nature of activities in a manner that
children can understand and obtain necessary consents.
incidents of abuse or neglect immediately, and follow up as required by our policies to ensure the child‟s
safety and well-being.
only with those who have a legitimate need to know, and handle all data and records with the utmost care
and security.
your responsibilities as outlined in your role or agreement with FAME Foundation.
and constructive feedback to encourage growth and confidence.
safeguarding. Stay informed about any updates or changes to these policies and participates in required
training sessions.
Unacceptable Behavior and Conduct at FAME Foundation
actions such as hitting, verbal abuse, exploitation, or failing to provide necessary care and supervision.
includes excessive familiarity, giving personal gifts, or sharing personal information that could compromise
the professional boundaries.
any other characteristic is not tolerated. Avoid making derogatory comments or treating individuals unfairly.
commitments, or neglecting duties, does not align with the standards of FAME Foundation.
consent or accessing personal data without authorization.
Reporting of Safeguarding Concerns at FAME Foundation
observations from the reporting process are used to improve practices and ensure that they remain effective. Your participation in reporting and following up on concerns contributes to the ongoing enhancement of safeguarding measures.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF FAME FOUNDATION SAFEGUARDING OFFICER
Ensure the effective implementation of the FAME Foundation‟s Safeguarding Policy.
Ensure all staff and volunteers understand their responsibilities in relation to safeguarding.
Provide support and guidance to staff and volunteers on safeguarding issues.
Ability to support individuals in distress and handle sensitive issues with care.
Ensure that all participants, including children and vulnerable adults, know how to raise safeguarding
concerns and that their voices are heard.
Make informed and timely decisions in response to safeguarding concerns.
Safeguarding and Communication Policy for Program Visits and Events Involving Children
FAME Foundation is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all children involved in our programs and
events. This policy outlines the safeguarding measures and communication.
FAME Objectives:
To protect children from harm and abuse.
To establish clear guidelines for staff and volunteers on safeguarding children.
To ensure effective communication with children, parents, and guardians.
To promote a safe and inclusive environment for all children.
This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, and partners involved in FAME Foundation‟s programs and events
involving children.
Recruitment and Training
All staff and volunteers must undergo a thorough background check before being allowed to work with
children.
Mandatory safeguarding training sessions must be attended by all staff and volunteers.
Regular refresher training sessions will be conducted to keep staff updated on best practices.
Code of Conduct
Maintain professional boundaries at all times.
Avoid situations where an adult is left alone with a child.
Treat all children with respect and dignity.
Report any suspicions or allegations of abuse immediately to the designated safeguarding officer.
Supervision
Ensure an appropriate adult-to-child ratio at all times.
Designate a responsible adult to supervise children during activities.
Conduct regular headcounts and maintain attendance records.
Safe Environment
Conduct risk assessments for all venues and activities.
Ensure the physical environment is safe and free from hazards.
Provide clear instructions and guidelines for children during activities.
With Children
Use age-appropriate language when communicating with children.
Encourage open and honest communication.
Listen to children‟s concerns and take them seriously.
With Parents and Guardians
Obtain written consent from parents or guardians before involving children in programs or events.
Provide detailed information about the program, including schedules, activities, and safety measures.
Establish a point of contact for parents and guardians to address any concerns or questions.
With Staff and Volunteers
Ensure clear and consistent communication regarding safeguarding policies and procedures.
Encourage staff and volunteers to report any safeguarding concerns immediately.
Provide regular updates and feedback to staff and volunteers on safeguarding practices.
Reporting Mechanisms
Establish a confidential reporting system for children, parents, staff, and volunteers.
Clearly communicate the reporting procedures to all stakeholders.
Response Protocols
Investigate all reports of abuse or safeguarding concerns promptly and thoroughly.
Take appropriate action based on the findings of the investigation.
13 Provide support to the victim and take steps to prevent further harm.
Monitoring and Evaluation
Regularly review and update the safeguarding policy to reflect best practices and legal requirements.
Conduct periodic audits to ensure compliance with safeguarding measures.
Collect feedback from children, parents, staff, and volunteers to improve safeguarding practices.
CHILD PROTECTION POLICY:
FAME FOUNDATION WILLSEEKTO KEEPCHILDREN SAFEBY:-
appropriate to their age and stage of development.
volunteers.
provided with appropriate learning opportunities to recognize, identify and respond to signs of abuse,
neglect and other safeguarding concerns relating to children and young people.
the individual/s who raise or disclose the concern.
maintained and securely stored.
during any activity involving children.
Response to Abuse
We have highlighted four main steps to responding to any case of abuse. They are:
child, child protection officer, lead child protection officer, agencies, or the policy must be duly
recorded in order to resolve issues and monitor progress.
14Disclosure
Staff and volunteers observe children‟s behavior from time to time. In any situation that a child discloses any incident of abuse to a member of staff or volunteer, they will listen carefully to the child‟s disclosure and will ask
the following questions:
How did it happen?
Did anything else happen at that time?
Have you spoken to someone about this?
No staff will forcefully demand answers from the child, especially when they are not willing to share. All answers will be documented and reported to the appropriate body. The incident will be documented together with dealing with relevant bodies such asthe Local Authorities orPolice.
DISSEMINATION
The policy and procedures will be widely promoted, and are mandatory for everyone involved in FAMEfoundation.
Failure to comply with the policy and procedures will be addressed without delay and may ultimately result in dismissal/exclusion from the organization.
FAME foundation acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, and is committed to ensuring safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, transparency, government
guidance, best practices and requirements. If any parent/guardian or child has any concerns about the conduct of any member of the organization, this should be raised in the first instance with the Safeguarding Officer.
MONITORING AND REVIEW OF THE POLICY
To ensure that the policy remains effective, relevant, and compliant with current standards, it will be subject to
regular review and updates. The policy will be reviewed under the following conditions:
Annual and Triannual Reviews: The policy will be thoroughly reviewed one year after its initial implementation
to evaluate its effectiveness, identify areas for improvement, and ensure alignment with current best practices and
organizational needs. Subsequently, it will be reviewed every three years to maintain its relevance and adaptability
to ongoing changes and developments.
Legislative and Government Guidance Updates: The policy will be reviewed and updated to ensure compliance
with any amendments to relevant laws or regulations, including changes to child protection laws, safeguarding
standards, and other legal requirements. Additionally, any new guidance or updates from government bodies,
regulatory agencies, or relevant authorities will prompt a review to ensure the policy reflects the latest
recommendations and best practices.
Significant Change or Event: If there are major organizational changes, such as restructuring, shifts in key
personnel, or modifications to processes, the policy will be reviewed to ensure it remains aligned with the new
context. Additionally, significant incidents related to abuse or safeguarding, whether within the organization or in
the broader community, may trigger an immediate policy review to address any issues or gaps revealed by these events.
COMMITMENT FAME FOUNDATION’S CHILDREN SAFEGUARDING POLICY
I acknowledge receipt of the [Safeguarding Policy for Children], including the [Code of Conduct], which I have read and fully understood.
I recognize my responsibility and duty of care to report any concerns regarding children and adults participating in activities hosted or funded by FAME Foundation.
I commit to adhering to the Code of Conduct and good practices and will collaborate with FAME Foundation to ensure the best interests of the children are upheld.
I understand that any breach of this policy may lead to the suspension of my involvement in FAME Foundation activities and/or an investigation into safeguarding concerns.
Name: ……………………………………………………
Signature: ……………………………………………….
Organization: ………………………………………….
Position: ……………………………………………..
Date: ……………………………………………………..
FAME INCIDENT REPORT FORM
Fill this out with as much detail as you can if you have concerns about a child, young person, or adult who might be vulnerable.
This report is confidential and must not be given to or the contents disclosed to any unauthorized person.
Date of Report
Details on the individual relaying the issue:
Name: ……………………………………………………
Sex: ………………………………………………………
Address: ………………………………… Phone Number: ……………………………………..
Email Address………………………………….
Your relationship with the child: ………………………………………..
Details of child involved:
Name: …………………………………
Sex: ……………………………………
Address: ………………………………… Date of Birth: …………………………………………….
Details of the Incident
Date and time: …………………………………………….
Location: ………………………………………………………….
Description of the Incident: [Provide a detailed description of what happened, including any relevant actions or
behaviors
observed]……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
Individuals Involved: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………
Witnesses (if any): [Names of witnesses, if any]………………………………………………………………………
Actions taken: [Describe any immediate actions taken to address the situation, such as reporting to authorities or
providing support to the individuals involved]……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
DECLARATION
I hereby declare that the information provided in this report is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge
and belief. I understand that any attempt to withhold information or to knowingly include false or misleading information will lead to disciplinary action as per the policies of the FAME Foundation.
Full Name: ………………………………………………………………………………………
Signature: …………………………………………………………………………………………
Date & Time of Report Submission: ……………………………………………………………
Download/View FAME Child Protection Policy Reviewed Doc (2023)
Plot 253, off Defense Quarters, Garki Area 1, Durumi 1, Abuja.
Landmark: The Apostolic Church, Area 1. Federal Capital Territory.
Tel: +2349070051404
Email: info@famefoundationwg.org