Child Safeguarding Policy

1. Commitment

LIGHTS is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for every child. We adopt a zero-tolerance approach to abuse, neglect, exploitation, and discrimination in all forms. Child safeguarding is the duty of all adults and the right of every child, regardless of age, gender, ability, caste, class, religion, ethnicity, or background.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All staff, board members, advisors, consultants, interns, and volunteers.
• All partner organizations, contractors, vendors, and donors working with or on behalf of LIGHTS.
• All children who come into contact with LIGHTS through its programmes, events, or partnerships.

3. Principles

• Children’s safety and dignity come first in all actions and decisions.
• Every child has the right to protection from physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, neglect, bullying, and exploitation.
• All interactions with children must be respectful, non-discriminatory, and culturally appropriate.
• Confidentiality of children’s information, images, and stories will be strictly maintained.

4. Code of Conduct

All individuals associated with LIGHTS must:

• Treat children with respect, fairness, and empathy.
• Avoid all forms of physical punishment, harassment, or abusive language.
• Never engage in sexual behaviour, inappropriate touching, or exploitative relationships with children.
• Not spend time alone with a child without organizational approval and transparency.
• Use children’s photographs or data only with prior informed consent and without revealing identity.
• Immediately report any suspected safeguarding concern or policy breach.

5. Safeguarding Practices

• Safe Recruitment: All staff, interns, and volunteers will undergo reference checks and sign a safeguarding declaration.
• Training: All team members and partners will be oriented on child safeguarding principles.
• Safe Spaces: LIGHTS will ensure its programmes, events, and communication platforms are safe for children.
• Partnerships: Partner organizations and contractors must comply with this policy and maintain child protection standards.

6. Reporting & Response

• Any suspicion, allegation, or evidence of abuse must be reported immediately to the governing body of LIGHTS.
• Concerns will be investigated fairly, confidentially, and with urgency.
• Appropriate action, including disciplinary measures or legal reporting, will be taken.
• Whistleblowers will be protected from retaliation.

7. Review

This policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure alignment with Indian law (POCSO Act 2012, JJ Act 2015, RTE Act 2009) and international standards (UNCRC). Updates will be shared with all stakeholders.