Safeguarding Policy

Introduction

Open Collective Europe (OCE) is committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all staff, volunteers, partners, and beneficiaries. This policy outlines our commitment to safeguarding and sets out procedures for reporting and responding to concerns.

What is Safeguarding?

Safeguarding refers to the actions we take to protect people, especially children and vulnerable adults, from harm. This includes protection from:

• Abuse (physical, sexual, emotional, neglect)

• Exploitation

• Neglect

• Discrimination

• Bullying

Our Commitment

OCE is committed to:

• Promoting a culture of safety and well-being for everyone involved in our activities.

• Ensuring all staff and volunteers are trained to understand safeguarding and their role in reporting concerns.

• Providing clear procedures for reporting concerns.

• Taking all concerns seriously and investigating them thoroughly.

• Supporting anyone who has been affected by safeguarding incidents.

Who is Vulnerable?

While safeguarding applies to everyone, some individuals may be more vulnerable to harm. This includes:

• Children

• People with disabilities

• Older adults

• People who are dependent on others

Reporting Concerns

Anyone who has a concern about the safety or well-being of someone involved in OCE activities should report it immediately, regardless of whether they are sure about the nature of the concern. Our support team is always available and swift to answer any concerns. Reach out to [e-mail].

How to Report a Concern:

Concerns can be reported to:

• Safeguarding Leads: Ivan Cukeric and Jean-François De Hertogh

Our personal emails are [e-mail] and [e-mail]

Reports can be made in person, email, or in writing. All reports will be treated confidentially.

What Happens When a Concern is Reported?

All reported concerns will be taken seriously and investigated thoroughly. The nature of the investigation will depend on the specific circumstances of the case.

Following an investigation, appropriate action will be taken, which may include:

• Referral to relevant authorities

• Disciplinary action

• Support for the person who raised the concern or the person at risk

Confidentiality

OCE will endeavor to keep the identities of those involved in safeguarding concerns confidential wherever possible. However, this may not be possible in all cases, such as where a crime has been reported.

Support

OCE will provide support to anyone who has been affected by a safeguarding incident. This may include emotional support, access to counseling services, or practical assistance.

Training

All staff and volunteers will receive training on safeguarding procedures. This training will cover:

• Recognizing signs and symptoms of abuse and neglect

• How to report concerns

• Their role in safeguarding

Review

This policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure it remains effective.

Additional Information

If you have any questions about this policy or safeguarding in general, please contact the Safeguarding Lead.

Further Resources

• OCE's impact areas