Wochidar Policies
Organizations mechanisms to safeguard against the violation and abuse of beneficiaries: Safeguarding against the violation and abuse of beneficiaries is of paramount importance in organization, here are some mechanisms we typically implement: Stringent screening and vetting: Thoroughly screen and vet all staff and volunteers, including background checks, references and interviews, to ensure they are suitable and have no history of sexual abuse or misconduct.
Comprehensive Training: Provide training to all staff and volunteers on child protection policies, codes of conduct and recognizing signs of abuse. We also engage in regular refresher trainings. Clear codes of conduct: Develop and communicate clear codes of conduct and ethical guidelines for all employees and volunteers emphasizing zero tolerance for any form of abuse. Reporting Procedures: Establish confidential and accessible reporting mechanisms for beneficiaries, staff and others to report any concern or incident of abuse. Ensure that whistle blowers are protected from retaliation. Child and gender sensitive spaces: Create safe and gender sensitive environments for beneficiaries including private areas for discussions and interviews with appropriate supervision.
Supervision and Monitoring: Implement strong supervision and monitoring systems to oversee Page 6 of 15 interactions between beneficiaries and staff/volunteers especially in residential facilities. Regular audits and inspections: Conduct regular internal and external audits and inspections to access compliance with safeguarding policies and procedures.
Transparent investigations: Investigate all allegations promptly, fairly and transparently. Engage relevant authorities when necessary. Support services: Provide support services and counselling services for victims of abuse and their families and ensure access to legal assistance if needed. Community Engagement: Engage with the community and beneficiaries to raise awareness about safeguarding policies and educate them about their rights and responsibilities. Documentation and Reporting: Maintain detailed records of incidents, investigation and actions taken while ensuring the confidentiality and privacy of victims.
Accountability measures: Implement clear accountability measures for staff and volunteers who violate safeguarding policies and procedures to adapt to changing needs and risks. External Oversight: Engage external organizations or individuals to conduct independent reviews and assessments of safeguarding practices.
Safeguarding is an on-going commitment and we strive for a culture of safety and respect for the well-being of all beneficiaries especially women and children. It requires the active participation and vigilance of everyone within the organization to prevent and address any form of abuse.
WOCHIDAR CODE OF CONDUCT This is crucial to ensure that prevention and rescue operations prioritize the safety, well-being and dignity of women and children in disaster situations. Prioritize safety and well-being: The safety, well-being and dignity of women and children are paramount in all rescue and relief effort. Ensure immediate medical attention alongside emotional counselling and psychological support for women and children in distress. Gender sensitivity: Recognize and address the distinct needs and vulnerabilities of women and children during rescue operations.
Respect cultural norms and practices while safeguarding women’s and children’s rights and protection. Non Discrimination: We do not discriminate against women and children based on gender, age, nationality, ethnicity or any other factor. Provide equal access to resources and services. Privacy and Dignity: Respect the privacy and dignity of women during interactions including search and rescue efforts. Ensure to maintain confidentiality when discussing sensitive issues. Informed Consent: we seek informed consent from women, caregivers or legal guardians before providing assistance or support. Ensure women and children have a voice in decisions affecting them. Child Protection: Comply with child protection protocols including age appropriate interviews and reunification efforts for separated children. Never engage in or condone child exploitation, abuse or child labor.
Prevent Gender Based Violence: Take proactive measures to prevent gender based violence, harassment and exploitation. Establish safe spaces for survivors to seek help and support. Accountability and Reporting: Encourage and facilitate the reporting of any misconduct or abuse, or violation of the code of conduct. Ensure that appropriate accountability are in place for offenders. Coordination and Collaboration: Collaboration with other humanitarian organizations, government agencies and local communities to enhance the effectiveness of rescue initiatives. Share information and best practices related to women and child protection.
Training and Capacity Building: Provide training and capacity building opportunities for staff and volunteers on gender sensitivity and child focused disaster response. Promote a culture of respect and adherence to this code of conduct. Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and update this code of conduct to reflect evolving needs and best practices. Encourage feedbacks from beneficiaries and stakeholders to enhance services.
Page 7 of 15 By adhering to the code of conduct, we reaffirm our commitment to prioritize the safety, dignity and rights of women and children affected by disasters. We pledge to uphold these principles in our rescue and relief efforts.
WOCHDAR APPROACHES OF DEVELOPMENT applies Sustainable Livelihoods approaches that provide a framework for addressing poverty and vulnerability in both development and humanitarian contexts. They have emerged from the growing realization of the need to put the poor and all aspects of their lives and means of living at the center of development and humanitarian work, while maintaining the sustainability of natural resources for present and future generations.
WOCHIDAR’s Sustainable livelihoods objectives aim to increase the sustainability of poor people’s livelihoods through promoting: Improved access to high-quality education, information, technologies and training and better nutrition and health; A more supportive and cohesive social environment; More secure access to, and better management of, natural resources; Better access to basic and facilitating infrastructure; More access to financial resources; a policy and institutional environment that supports multiple livelihood strategies and promotes equitable access to competitive markets for all