Child Safeguarding Policy

ASAT LABS is committed to creating a safe, nurturing environment where all children can learn, grow, and thrive without fear of harm, abuse, or exploitation. We recognize that working with children carries significant responsibility, and we take this responsibility seriously.

This Child Safeguarding Policy reflects our zero-tolerance approach to any form of child abuse or exploitation. Every child who participates in our programs has the right to protection from harm, and every adult working with ASAT LABS has a duty to uphold this right.

This policy establishes the framework for child protection at ASAT LABS and applies to:

• All Staff Members: Full-time, part-time, and temporary employees
• Volunteers: Anyone providing voluntary services involving children
• Contractors and Consultants: External parties working on our premises or programs
• Partners and Affiliates: Organizations collaborating with us on child-focused initiatives
• Board Members: Governance and oversight personnel
• Visitors: Anyone interacting with children in our programs or facilities

This policy applies to all activities, programs, and events where ASAT LABS has contact with children, whether conducted at our facilities, online, or in the community.

For the purposes of this policy, we use the following definitions:

Our approach to child safeguarding is guided by the following core principles:

All individuals working with or for ASAT LABS must adhere to the following standards of behavior:

You MUST:

• Treat all children with respect, dignity, and fairness
• Maintain appropriate physical and emotional boundaries
• Provide a safe, supportive environment for learning and development
• Report all safeguarding concerns immediately
• Be a positive role model in words and actions
• Obtain written parental consent for activities involving children
• Ensure visibility when working with children (avoid isolated situations)
• Use positive, non-violent behavior management techniques

You MUST NOT:

• Use physical punishment or any form of violence against children
• Engage in sexual activity or have sexual relationships with children
• Use language or behavior that is abusive, humiliating, or degrading
• Spend excessive time alone with a single child away from others
• Take children to your home or arrange meetings outside program activities
• Share personal contact information or communicate with children via personal devices
• Show favoritism or exclude certain children
• Take or share images of children without proper consent and procedures

Violation of this Code of Conduct will result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or engagement, and may be reported to appropriate authorities.

ASAT LABS implements rigorous recruitment procedures to ensure only suitable individuals work with children:

• Background Checks: Comprehensive criminal record checks for all staff and volunteers
• Reference Verification: Minimum of two professional references, including questions about suitability to work with children
• Identity Verification: Confirmation of identity through official documentation
• Interview Process: Behavioral questions assessing commitment to child protection
• Gap Analysis: Explanation required for any unexplained gaps in employment history
• Disclosure: Declaration of any previous concerns, allegations, or convictions related to children
• Probationary Period: Close supervision and evaluation during initial employment period
• Regular Re-screening: Periodic background checks for long-term staff and volunteers

Recognizing Signs of Abuse:

Staff and volunteers should be alert to potential indicators of abuse, including:

• Unexplained injuries, bruises, or marks
• Changes in behavior, mood, or performance
• Fear of specific individuals or reluctance to go home
• Inappropriate sexual knowledge or behavior
• Poor hygiene, inadequate clothing, or signs of neglect
• Withdrawal, depression, or self-harm

Reporting Obligations:

How to Report:

• Contact the Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) immediately
• If the DSO is unavailable, contact the Deputy DSO or management
• In emergencies where a child is in immediate danger, contact local police first
• Document your concerns in writing within 24 hours
• Maintain confidentiality - share information only on a need-to-know basis

All reports will be treated seriously and investigated appropriately. Reporters will be protected from retaliation.

When a safeguarding concern is reported, ASAT LABS follows these procedures:

Immediate Response:

• Ensure the child's immediate safety and wellbeing
• Provide support and reassurance to the child
• Do not promise confidentiality - explain that information must be shared to help
• Document all information accurately and objectively
• Contact emergency services if necessary

Investigation and Assessment:

• DSO assesses the concern and determines appropriate action
• Referral to child protection authorities as required by law
• Cooperation with police and social services investigations
• Internal investigation following established protocols
• Suspension of alleged perpetrator pending investigation if necessary

Support Services:

• Provision of appropriate support for the child and family
• Referral to counseling and other support services
• Support for staff members involved in the case
• Regular monitoring and follow-up

ASAT LABS conducts regular risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential safeguarding risks:

• Activity Risk Assessment: Evaluation of safeguarding risks for each program and activity
• Environment Assessment: Review of physical spaces to ensure safety and supervision
• Online Safety: Assessment of digital platforms and online interactions with children
• Trip and Event Planning: Enhanced safeguarding measures for off-site activities
• Photography and Media: Protocols for taking, storing, and sharing images of children
• Visitor Management: Procedures for managing visitors and external parties

Risk assessments are documented, reviewed regularly, and updated when circumstances change.

ASAT LABS provides comprehensive training and ongoing support:

Mandatory Training:

• Child safeguarding induction for all new staff and volunteers
• Annual refresher training on safeguarding policies and procedures
• Specialized training for the Designated Safeguarding Officer
• Advanced training for managers and supervisors
• Online safety and digital protection training

Training Content:

• Understanding child abuse and its indicators
• Legal obligations and reporting requirements
• Code of Conduct and safe practices
• Responding to disclosures and concerns
• Supporting children who have experienced abuse

Ongoing Support:

• Regular supervision and guidance from managers
• Access to safeguarding resources and materials
• Debriefing and counseling after safeguarding incidents
• Clear escalation pathways for concerns and questions

If you need to report a safeguarding concern, seek advice, or have questions about child protection: