Safeguarding

Maintaining the safety and protection of the communities with whom we work and of our staff is of primary importance to Concern. We are a signatory to the Statement of Commitment on Eliminating Sexual Exploitation and Abuse by UN and Non-UN Personnel and to the Red Cross Code of Conduct.

Concern places particular emphasis on the standards of behavior that we expect from our staff, visitors to our programs, and our local partners. Our Concern Code of Conduct (CCoC) and Associated Policies includes specific sections for our:

• Program Participant Protection Policy (P4)
• Anti-Trafficking in Persons Policy
• Child Safeguarding Policy

These policies were last reviewed in 2018, when we also rolled out a comprehensive update to all policies to all staff. These policies are reflected in all aspects of our daily work and set out the standards of behavior expected from all employees in relation to each other, our program participants, and other relevant parties.

In 2018, we further strengthened our commitment to safeguarding through the establishment of a dedicated Safeguarding Office led by our Head of Safeguarding. This office oversees the implementation of our safeguarding policies and procedures with the aim of ensuring that program participants (including children, staff, and all who come into contact with Concern’s work) are protected from any form of exploitation and abuse.

Complaint Response

We also have a Complaints Response Mechanism and are committed to investigating allegations of behavior in breach of the above policies. All complaints are investigated, following established investigation guidelines. Where substantiated, disciplinary action is taken, up to and including dismissal.

Child Safeguarding

Revised in 2019, our Child Safeguarding Statement has been developed in line with requirements under 2015’s Children First Act, 2017’s Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children, and TUSLA’s Child Safeguarding a Guide for Policy, Procedure and Practice.