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Safeguarding.
We work with elders, with students in schools, and with families under pressure. Everyone we meet has the right to be safe from harm.
To report a concern: email obaatanpafoundation2025@gmail.com with SAFEGUARDING in the subject line, or call +233598468419 and ask for the Safeguarding Lead.
You can report anonymously. You do not need proof, and no one is penalised for raising a concern in good faith. If someone is in immediate danger, contact the police or the Department of Social Welfare first, then tell us.
This is a public summary, not the full policy. The full safeguarding policy is an internal document that every volunteer signs and that names a designated lead and deputy. Have it reviewed by someone with child protection experience in Ghana, and link it here once it exists.
Our commitment
Our work brings volunteers into contact with elderly people in their homes and churches, and with students in senior high schools. Both involve a difference in power, and differences in power are where harm happens. We treat safeguarding as a condition of operating, not as paperwork.
We cannot promise harm will never occur. We can promise that a concern will be taken seriously, acted on quickly, recorded, and never suppressed to protect our name.
Who this covers
Every executive, volunteer, driver, photographer, partner organisation and visitor, at all times while connected to our work.
What we require
- Treat every person with respect, whatever their age, gender, disability, religion, ethnicity or circumstances.
- Never be alone with a child or student in a private setting; sessions happen in view of teachers and other volunteers.
- Never give money, gifts or favours to an individual outside an agreed outreach.
- Never exchange assistance of any kind for sexual favours. This is prohibited absolutely and results in removal and referral to the authorities.
- Never use physical punishment, shouting or humiliation.
- Never photograph or film anyone without their informed consent.
- Report any concern about a colleague's conduct immediately, including where you are unsure.
What happens after a report
- Same day. The Safeguarding Lead acknowledges the report and takes any step needed to make someone safe.
- Within three working days. The concern is recorded and a decision made on whether it must be referred to the Department of Social Welfare or the police. Serious concerns are always referred.
- Investigation. Conducted by someone with no connection to the person complained about.
- Outcome. Recorded and reported to the leadership, and included in annual reporting as a number only.
Photographs and video
We ask permission before every photograph and video, in the person's own language, explaining where it will be used. In schools we obtain the school's permission as well. We do not publish a child's full name with their photograph.
This summary was published in September 2026. The full policy is being finalised and will be linked here once approved by the leadership.