Hi {{ first_name | there }},
Last week we explored why safeguarding matters. This week, we tackle the harder question: how do we move from written policies to lived practice?
The gap between policy and practice is where most organizations struggle. You can have the most comprehensive safeguarding policy in the sector, but if your team doesn't understand it, believe in it, or know how to apply it; it's just paper.
What Makes a Good Safeguarding Policy?
A strong safeguarding policy isn't measured by its page count. It's measured by:
Clarity: Can a new staff member understand their responsibilities in 10 minutes?
Accessibility: Is it available in multiple languages? Can field staff access it offline?
Actionability: Does it provide clear steps for reporting, responding, and escalating concerns?
Relevance: Is it tailored to your operational context, or is it a generic template?
At SPI, we've reviewed hundreds of policies. The best ones answer three questions immediately:
What behavior is unacceptable?
How do I report it?
What happens next?
The 5 Elements of a Strong PSEA Framework
Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) is non-negotiable in humanitarian and development work. Here's what every organization needs:
1. Zero-Tolerance Policy
Clearly define what constitutes SEA. Make it explicit that violations result in termination and legal action.
2. Code of Conduct
All staff, partners, consultants, and volunteers must sign and understand your code. This includes induction and refresher training.
3. Safe Reporting Mechanisms
Anonymous hotlines, confidential email channels, and community feedback systems must be accessible 24/7.
4. Survivor-Centered Response
When incidents occur, the survivor's safety, dignity, and choices must guide every decision. This means trained response teams and clear referral pathways.
5. Accountability Systems
Regular audits, transparent investigations, and follow-through on commitments build trust both internally and with communities you serve.
Training That Transforms
Training is where culture shifts from compliance to commitment. But here's what we've learned: one-off workshops don't work.
Effective safeguarding training:
Happens regularly (at minimum annually, with refreshers)
Is role-specific (leadership, frontline staff, and community members need different content)
Includes scenario-based learning (not just theory)
Is documented and tracked
Addresses both prevention and response
Our most successful clients integrate safeguarding into new staff orientation, management retreats, partner capacity-building, and annual strategic planning.
New at SPI: We're developing automated induction systems that deliver safeguarding training through email, SMS, or WhatsApp; ensuring every staff member receives consistent messaging from day one, even in emergency contexts.
Building Safe Reporting Systems
Reporting is the heartbeat of safeguarding. Without safe, trusted channels, incidents go unreported and patterns remain hidden.
Essential features:
Multiple channels: Phone, email, in-person, and digital options
Anonymity protection: Staff and community members must feel safe reporting
Non-retaliation guarantees: Explicitly stated and consistently enforced
Clear timelines: People need to know what happens after they report
Feedback loops: When safe to do so, provide updates to reporters
We've seen organizations dramatically increase reporting rates by adding accessible digital options like WhatsApp in local languages;meeting people where they already communicate.
Technology spotlight: Enterprise reporting platforms like NAVEX and EQS provide secure, anonymous channels with case tracking and analytics. SPI can help you evaluate and implement these solutions for your organization.
Does Your Organization Have a Safeguarding Lead?
This matters more than you might think. Organizations with designated safeguarding focal points consistently demonstrate faster incident response times, fewer repeat violations, and stronger community trust.
Your safeguarding lead should:
Report directly to senior leadership
Have dedicated time (not an "add-on" role)
Receive specialized training
Have authority to halt activities if risks are identified
A Real Scenario
An international NGO operating in East Africa had a comprehensive safeguarding policy;but only in English. Their field teams, working in 4 local languages, relied on translation apps and memory.
After we helped translate and contextualize the policy, and trained field staff in their languages, incident reporting increased substantially. Not because problems worsened;but because staff finally understood their responsibility and had the tools to act.
Quote of the Week
"Policy without practice is just paperwork. Practice without policy is just hoping for the best. You need both."
Your Action Steps This Week
Review your safeguarding policy. Is it accessible to everyone who needs it?
Check your reporting channels. Test them yourself;are they truly accessible?
Identify your safeguarding focal point. Do they have the resources and authority needed?
Want SPI's Help?
We offer:
Policy development and review aligned with CHS, IASC, and CPMS
Customized staff training (online, in-person, or hybrid)
Automated induction systems for consistent onboarding
Reporting system design and implementation
Safeguarding focal point coaching
Schedule a consultation: [email protected]
Do you have questions, ideas, or resources on this topic? Reply to this email or share your thoughts; we'd love to hear from you.
Next Post:
Survivor-Centered Response: Doing No Harm in Action
We'll explore what trauma-informed, dignified response looks like when incidents occur.
Stay committed,
The Safe Path International Team
Safe Path International | Professional Safeguarding Consultancy
Serving the Middle East, Africa, and Eastern Europe
Website | LinkedIn | Contact Us: [email protected]