1. Purpose
This policy outlines NGF’s commitment to safeguarding the dignity, safety, and rights of children, youth, women, and vulnerable adults, aligned with South African and international standards.
2. Legal & Regulatory References
- Children’s Act 38 of 2005; Child Justice Act 75 of 2008
- Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 32 of 2007
- Protection from Harassment Act 17 of 2011; Domestic Violence Act 116 of 1998
- POPIA 4 of 2013 (confidentiality of minors’ data)
- Constitution of South Africa — Section 28 (Children’s Rights)
- UN Convention on the Rights of the Child; African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child
- ILO Convention 182 (Worst Forms of Child Labour)
3. Principles
- Zero tolerance for abuse, neglect, exploitation, or discrimination
- Best Interests of the Child — paramount in all actions
- Do No Harm — programme safety and wellbeing
- Mandatory Reporting — Section 110 of the Children’s Act
- Confidentiality & Data Protection under POPIA
4. Responsibilities
- Board appoints a Designated Safeguarding Officer
- All staff/volunteers undergo safeguarding induction and, where relevant, background checks (Child Protection Register)
- Partners agree to NGF safeguarding principles in agreements
5. Code of Conduct
Personnel must: treat all with respect; work in the presence of others; obtain parental consent for photos/media/travel; avoid any behaviour that could be misinterpreted as exploitative or abusive.
Personnel must not: use offensive language; engage in sexual or exploitative behaviour; provide alcohol/drugs/harmful materials to minors; inflict corporal punishment or degrading treatment.
6. Reporting & Response
Report concerns immediately to the Safeguarding Officer. Reports are acted on within 24 hours; serious cases are referred to SAPS or the Department of Social Development. Whistleblowers are protected by the Protected Disclosures Act 26 of 2000.
7. Monitoring & Review
Policy reviewed annually or after incidents. Training refreshed every two years. Updates are communicated to all staff, volunteers, and partners.