RAWBIT FOUNDATION

Our Approach

Children have the inalienable right to protection and safeguard from all forms of abuse, maltreatment, and harm. RAWBIT FOUNDATION is committed to maintaining an environment in all its program locations that is positive and nurturing where children feel safe and secure.

Any form of humiliating treatment and abusive treatment is not only a violation of the child's right to protection from violence but also counterproductive to learning and development, which are the primary purposes of education.

This Child Protection Policy is guided by the National Policy for Children 2013, Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO) 2012, and UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Purpose of this Policy

• To promote a safe and positive environment conducive for learning and development
• To clearly state our position on the safety and protection of children
• To define the roles, responsibilities and accountability of all stakeholders
• To enable staff to recognize signs of abuse and report them immediately
• To establish mechanisms for monitoring, review and implementation

Guiding Principles

• Recognizing the right of children to survival, protection, development, and participation
• Zero tolerance towards any and all forms of child abuse – physical, emotional, sexual
• Respecting the dignity, liberty, equality, and freedom of children
• Belief in the child's own agency and ability to contribute effectively
• Acting in defense of the best interest of the child
• Respecting confidentiality and the right to privacy of children
• Belief that child protection is everyone's responsibility

How to Report Concerns

Any child, parent, teacher, staff member, or individual who suspects abuse may report concerns to the Child Protection Committee.

Timeline: All reports must be recorded immediately. The Child Protection Officer must inform the committee before close of day. Sexual abuse cases must be reported per POCSO Act without delay.

Child Protection Committee (CPC)

The CPC is responsible for addressing all incidents, conducting inquiries following principles of natural justice, and ensuring child safety.

Committee Composition:

• Minimum 5 members (odd numbers)
• 50% must be women
• 60% must be permanent staff
• Representatives from programs working directly with children
• One Board Member

Inquiry Process:

The CPC will investigate by interviewing all parties, reviewing evidence, and making determinations based on findings. Consequences may range from revoking privileges to termination, depending on the severity.