CHILD PROTECTION POLICY

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure the physical, psychological, and social protection of children in all activities conducted by the Young Volunteers Association and to establish standards for preventing any neglect, abuse, mistreatment, or harm to children. The association prioritizes the best interests of children and adopts a safe, inclusive, and rights-based approach in all its work.

2. Scope

This policy covers:

  • Board members
  • Staff
  • Volunteers
  • Consultants
  • Project partners
  • Service providers and organizations

All children participating in association activities are protected under this policy.

3. Core Principles

The Young Volunteers Association adopts the following principles:

  • The best interest of the child is paramount
  • No discrimination (based on religion, language, race, gender, disability, status, etc.)
  • Participation rights are supported (children’s opinions are considered)
  • Confidentiality and privacy are protected
  • The “Do No Harm” principle is applied
  • The responsibility to create a safe environment lies with all stakeholders

4. Risk Definition and Types

The association assesses risks to children under the following categories:

  • Physical abuse
  • Emotional/psychological abuse
  • Sexual abuse and exploitation
  • Neglect
  • Peer bullying
  • Risks in digital environments
  • Unsafe physical environments

5. Code of Conduct

All individuals associated with the association are required to comply with the following rules:

Prohibited:

  • Causing physical or psychological harm to a child
  • Inappropriate physical contact
  • Sexual remarks, behaviors, or insinuations
  • Being alone with a child in unsupervised environments (unless necessary)
  • Sharing children’s photos/videos without permission
  • Private and confidential communication with a child

Required:

  • Respectful and boundary-conscious communication with children
  • At least two adults present in all activities (dual-control principle)
  • Protecting children’s dignity and privacy
  • Reporting risky situations immediately

6. Safe Environment Standards

The association:

  • Assesses all activity areas for child safety
  • Provides child protection training for volunteers and staff
  • Conducts risk analysis and takes preventive measures
  • Applies child safety rules on digital platforms

7. Reporting and Response Mechanism

In case of any suspicion of neglect, abuse, or risk:

  1. The situation is immediately reported to the authorized person
  2. When necessary, referral to official institutions is made
  3. The child’s safety is prioritized
  4. The process is carried out confidentially

The association does not ignore any report.

8. Responsibilities

Board of Directors:

  • Ensures implementation of the policy
  • Allocates necessary resources

Volunteers and Staff:

  • Comply with the policy rules
  • Report risks

Project Partners:

  • Comply with this policy

9. Training and Awareness

The association:

  • Provides child protection training to all volunteers
  • Conducts regular awareness activities
  • Makes the policy text accessible to all stakeholders

10. Monitoring and Updating

This policy:

  • Is regularly reviewed
  • Is updated when necessary
  • Is improved with feedback from the field

11. Effective Date

This policy comes into effect on the date it is approved by the Board of Directors of the Young Volunteers Association.

12. Commitment

The Young Volunteers Association commits to protecting the right of all children to be in a safe, respectful, and supportive environment.