EAC Child Protection Policy
Introduction
Education Action in Crisis (EAC) is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all children who participate in our programs and services. We believe that all children have the right to be protected from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. This policy outlines our commitment to child protection and sets forth the procedures that we will follow to ensure the safety of children.
Definition of Child Abuse and Neglect
For the purposes of this policy, child abuse and neglect is defined as any act or omission that results in harm to a child's physical, emotional, or mental well-being. This includes, but is not limited to:
Physical abuse: Any intentional act that causes physical injury to a child, such as hitting, kicking, biting, burning, or shaking.
Sexual abuse: Any sexual contact or behavior with a child, including fondling, oral sex, or intercourse.
Emotional abuse: Any act or omission that causes emotional harm to a child, such as name-calling, threats, or isolation.
Neglect: The failure to provide a child with the basic necessities of life, such as food, clothing, shelter, medical care, or supervision.
Reporting Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect
Any staff member, volunteer, or other individual who suspects that a child is being abused or neglected is required to report the suspected abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities.
Investigation of Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect
When a report of suspected child abuse or neglect is received, EAC will investigate the report in a timely and confidential manner. The investigation will be conducted by a trained investigator who will interview the child, the child's caregiver(s), and any other relevant witnesses. The investigator will also review any available records, such as medical records or school records.
Response to Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect
If the investigation finds that a child has been abused or neglected, EAC will take steps to protect the child. This may include removing the child from the home, providing counseling for the child and the child's caregiver(s), or filing criminal charges against the abuser.
Training
All staff members and volunteers who work with children are required to receive training on child protection issues. This training will cover the definition of child abuse and neglect, the reporting procedures, and the investigation and response process.
Support for Children who have been Abused or Neglected
Education Action in Crisis (EAC) provides support to children who have been abused or neglected. This support may include counseling, tutoring, or other services.
Confidentiality
All reports of suspected child abuse and neglect will be kept confidential to the extent possible. However, there may be times when it is necessary to share information with other agencies, such as law enforcement or child protective services. In these cases, EAC will take steps to protect the confidentiality of the child as much as possible.
Enforcement
EAC will enforce this policy consistently and fairly. Any staff member or volunteer who violates this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.
EAC has zero tolerance towards these individuals hence would immediately refer the offender to the relevant authorities and recommend legal action.
Conclusion
Education Action in Crisis (EAC) is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all children. We believe that all children have the right to be protected from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.