Safeguarding
Policy
1. Purpose
Just Brands Africa (PTY) Ltd, Reg. 2013/228381/07, is committed to creating a safe environment for children and youth (hereafter referred to as “youth”) involved in our programmes and services. This Safeguarding Policy outlines the principles, guidelines, and procedures to ensure the protection of youth from all forms of abuse, exploitation, and harm.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all employees, board members, contractors, suppliers, clients, volunteers, and any other individuals or entities engaged in activities under the auspices of Just Brands Africa.
3. Definitions
- Youth: Any person under the age of 18 years.
- Abuse: Physical, sexual, emotional, or exploitation abuse, as defined in section 4 of this policy. Physical Abuse: Any act causing physical harm to a youth.
- Sexual Abuse: Any act of a sexual nature involving a youth.
- Emotional Abuse: Actions causing serious behavioural, cognitive, emotional, or mental harm.
- Exploitation: Taking advantage of a youth for personal gain.
- Neglect: Failure to provide for the basic needs of a youth.
- Organisational Personnel: All individuals working or volunteering with Just Brands Africa.
4. Principles
- Zero Tolerance: Just Brands Africa has zero tolerance for the abuse and exploitation of youth.
- Best Interests: All actions concerning youth will prioritise their safety, well-being, and rights.
- Non-Discrimination: All youth have the right to protection irrespective of race, gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, or other status.
5. Prevention Measures
- Policies and Procedures: Implementation of comprehensive safeguarding policies and procedures.
- Staff Selection: Rigorous screening and background checks for all personnel working with youth.
- Training: Regular training for personnel on safeguarding policies and procedures.
- Youth Engagement: Involvement of youth in discussions about their safety and well-being.
6. Reporting and Response
- Reporting Mechanisms: Establishment of confidential and accessible reporting channels for youth to report concerns.
- Response Plan: Immediate investigation and response to any reported incidents of abuse or exploitation.
- Support: Provision of support and protection for youth involved in any reported incidents.
7. Specific Responsibilities
- Board of Directors: Ultimate accountability for safeguarding within the organisation.
- Chief Executive Officer: Ensuring the implementation and compliance with this policy.
- Information Officer: Handling reports of abuse and ensuring adherence to legal and policy requirements.
- All Personnel: Adhering to safeguarding policies, reporting concerns, and undergoing regular training.
8. Code of Conduct
- Prohibited Actions: Abuse, exploitation, discrimination, or any form of harm towards youth.
- Required Actions: Respectful and protective behaviour, maintaining professional boundaries, and reporting any concerns or suspicions of abuse.
9. Implementation and Monitoring
- Regular Reviews: Periodic review and update of the safeguarding policy to ensure its effectiveness.
- Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of safeguarding practices and compliance within the organisation.
10. Informed Consent
- Youth Participation: Ensuring that youth are informed about and consent to participation in programmes and activities.
- Use of Personal Information: Obtaining written consent for the use of personal information and images of youth.
11. Confidentiality
- Data Protection: Safeguarding personal information of youth and ensuring it is only disclosed in accordance with legal requirements and organisational policies.
12. Disciplinary Action
- Sanctions: Immediate suspension and potential termination of personnel found guilty of abuse or exploitation.
- Legal Action: Referral to law enforcement agencies for criminal investigation if necessary.
How to contact us
Information Officer:
Francois van Louw
E: francois@jbafrica.com
T: +27 73 102 4961
Deputy Information Officers:
Nicholas Manuel
E: nick@jbafrica.com
T: +27 76 546 7153
Ben Henning
E: ben@jbafrica.com
Nicholas Curtin
E: nicholas@jbafrica.com
