Safeguarding policy
At WaterAid we are committed to the safeguarding and wellbeing of all individuals, including the people in communities in which we work, staff, volunteers, contractors, and partners. Any form of abuse is not tolerated.
We have zero tolerance for the abuse of power, privilege or trust, or any form of inappropriate behaviour, discrimination, abuse, harassment, or exploitation of any kind.
Our expectations
Working on behalf of WaterAid often means holding a position of trust; all those representing WaterAid are expected to be aware of the responsibility that comes with this trust, and never misuse it.
All representatives of WaterAid – including staff, volunteers, external contractors and partners – are required to commit to our Global Code of Conduct, which sets out our high standards of expected behaviour, and details what will happen if these standards are not met.
Global Safeguarding Policy
Read how we protect all individuals who come into contact with WaterAid through our work, including children, vulnerable adults, staff or associated representatives, from any form of harm or abuse.
Global Code of Conduct
This Global Code of Conduct outlines what is expected of everyone who represents or works on behalf of WaterAid.
Reporting malpractice and breaches to our Code of Conduct
The following procedure outlines how to report concerns if you suspect or know that malpractice or violations of WaterAid’s Global Code of Conduct have taken place, are taking place or are likely to take place.
Whistleblowing: How to report a safeguarding concern
All reports are strictly confidential, and you can always choose to remain anonymous.
Report to the Global Safeguarding Team
- Email: safeguarding@wateraid.org
- Phone: +44 (0)207 793 4468
Report to an external independent service
You can also report your concerns to our independent whistleblowing service, Safecall, either by phone or online.
- Freephone in the Netherlands: 00 800 7233 2255
- Online: Safecall online
How we respond to safeguarding concerns
We apply a do no harm principle when responding to every concern. We are committed to a survivor-centred response, and take a zero-tolerance approach to inaction.
We ensure confidentiality is maintained, and that anyone raising concerns in good faith is protected from any form of victimisation or detrimental treatment.
When any report is made, we follow a four-step procedure:
Case review
The Global Safeguarding Team will review the report and discuss next steps with the reporter and injured party/survivor (if identified). Regardless of whether a safeguarding investigation takes place, support will always be offered.
Investigation
If an investigation takes place, it is survivor-centred, with a duty of care to all parties involved. Depending on the nature of the case, we may be required to report to the Charity Commission, make a referral to statutory authorities, and/or inform relevant donors.
Confidentiality is always of the utmost importance, and information will only be shared on a need to know basis.
Outcome
We will provide progress updates to all parties involved, including the injured party/survivor. A final decision is made about the outcome of the investigation and any disciplinary action. We are committed to providing continued support and ensuring the ongoing safety and welfare of all involved.
Learning
All our safeguarding cases and outcomes are recorded publicly in our annual reports. This is headline data and does not delve into each case, to protect the confidentiality of all involved. We are committed to learning from safeguarding cases and adapting our policies and procedures accordingly.
