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Child Protection Policy

Kinderschutz-
richtlinie

Table of Contents

Introduction
1. Scope and Applicability of the Child Protection Policy (CPP)
2. Legal Framework
3. Violence Against Children and Adolescents – Explanations & Definitions
4. Forms of Violence
5. Organizational Analysis 
6. Preventive Measures 
6.1 Code of Conduct 
6.2 Rules of Conduct for Children and Adolescents 
6.3 Staff Recruitment 
6.4 Staff Development 
6.5 Child Protection Officer (CPO) 
6.6 Responsibilities
6.7 External Ombudsperson
6.8 Communication Standards
7. Case and Complaints Management
8. Documentation, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Further Development
9. Awareness-Raising and Communication of the Child Protection Policy (CPP)
10. Validity of the Child Protection Policy (CPP)
11. Memorandum of Understanding for Partner Organizations 

Introduction

Not only in the educational programs of Weitblick GmbH should the participation of all involved parties and partners be promoted, but also in the development and implementation of the child protection concept. In addition to its own work, Weitblick GmbH supports and promotes external activities and projects that aim to contribute to an ecologically, economically, and socially sustainable society through awareness-raising and the personal development of individuals.

This means that Weitblick GmbH primarily conducts programs with trainers and multipliers and, where applicable, also implements projects directly with children and adolescents. In addition, it collaborates with cooperation partners to realize various projects and/or provides financial support to other organizations.

The cooperation partners and funding recipients work in various fields, either indirectly or directly, with children and adolescents. In order to reduce the risk of violence against children, Weitblick GmbH aims to strengthen its partners’ awareness of this issue and to fulfill its social responsibility by creating a supportive environment for children and adolescents.

For this reason, Weitblick GmbH has developed a Child Protection Policy (CPP) for its own field of activity as well as a Memorandum of Understanding, which includes, among other things, child protection standards and framework recommendations for partner organizations (see Chapter 11 and Appendix).

“And when we say that human beings are responsible for themselves, we do not mean that they are responsible only for their own individuality, but that they are responsible for all human beings.” (J.-P. Sartre)

For the development of the present child safeguarding requirements (CSR), the publicly available Child Protection Policy of the Network for Children’s Rights¹ as well as that of the Möwe Academy were used as a basis. In addition, the results of the staff survey (organisational analysis) conducted at Weitblick GmbH in November 2021 were incorporated. The development process was initiated within the framework of the EU project “Safe Places”² and was supported by the Möwe³.

¹ Child Protection Policy of the Network for Children’s Rights (PDF)
 ² EU Project “Safe Places” – Safeguarding Concepts for Organisations
 ³ Die Möwe – Academy for Child Protection and Violence Prevention

1. Scope and Applicability of the Child Protection Policy (CPP)

In this Child Protection Policy (CPP), children’s rights, child welfare, and child protection are defined as top priorities. It includes a system of measures for the improved protection of children from violence and serves all employees as guidance and a practical working tool for child protection processes—analysis, prevention, intervention, and follow-up—in everyday work. In doing so, Weitblick GmbH assumes responsibility for the safety and well-being of children and adolescents within the scope of its organizational activities and ensures that risks to child welfare are identified and reported to the competent authorities. Not least, in line with a humanistic view of humanity, the self-reflection of all employees with regard to child protection issues is to be promoted. Accordingly, the CPP forms the basis for the continuous (further) development of structures, processes, and competencies in the interest of child welfare and children’s rights. The following persons (groups) are protected:

Children and adolescents

The Child Protection Policy (CPP) was primarily developed for young people (0–18 years) to ensure that their rights are respected during participation in activities, projects, and programs of Weitblick GmbH, that they are supported in their personal development,
and that they are protected from violence. In the spirit of participation, children and adolescents should be involved in the creation and further development process of the CPP.

Employees (both internal and external)

The present child safeguarding requirements (CSR) apply to all employees of Weitblick GmbH, including all employed staff members and the management. They are required to take note of and comply with the contents of the CSR. In addition, the CSR also applies to persons employed through projects, external consultants, and, where applicable, trainees, interns, civil service volunteers, and volunteers⁴. The standards serve, on the one hand, to raise awareness among staff and to provide guidance with regard to shared core values and codes of conduct. On the other hand, they also function as guidelines on how staff should proceed in cases of concern or suspicion.

On the other hand, they also serve to protect staff members as well as all persons acting on behalf of Weitblick GmbH, as the implementation of the CSR strengthens both clarity in action and the necessary competencies, and ensures that expectations regarding staff attitudes and behaviour are communicated transparently. In the event of a suspicion, a fair procedure for clarification is guaranteed. If the suspicion is disproven, measures are taken to restore the individual’s reputation (see Chapter 7, Case and Complaint Management).

Organisation

This KSR was also developed to ensure the quality of Weitblick GmbH's work. It serves to protect against damage to reputation and false accusations and is an international mark of quality. It also sends a clear message to the outside world: Weitblick GmbH puts the welfare of children first and wants to encourage others to do the same.

Partner organisations of Weitblick GmbH

The cooperation partners and funding recipients of Weitblick GmbH commit, by means of a Memorandum of Understanding (see Chapter 11 and Appendix), to comply with international child protection standards. Specifically, this means that no later than one year after the start of the funding or cooperation, they must have developed their own Child Protection Policy. Where necessary, Weitblick GmbH supports individual cooperation partners, including through financial assistance, in developing and sustainably implementing an organization-specific Child Protection Policy.

⁴ Note: External staff are individuals who work directly for Weitblick GmbH. Not included are individuals who work for partner organisations or grant recipients of Weitblick GmbH.

2. Legal Framework

In Austria, the use of any form of violence against children as a means of upbringing in families, schools, and institutions has been prohibited since 1989.⁵ Although acts of violence often occur between private individuals, the state nevertheless has a duty of protection to prevent such acts within its legal framework and through additional measures, to protect children from further harm, to investigate incidents, and to hold perpetrators accountable.

Effective child protection requires cooperation between a wide range of actors, including families, child and youth welfare services, health care providers, schools, leisure facilities and the police. Legal reporting obligations and official reporting requirements in cases of justified suspicion of child endangerment are intended to ensure cooperation between these agencies.

The rights of children and young people, including their protection from all forms of violence, are enshrined at global and national level in the following conventions and laws, which form the legal framework for the activities of Weitblick GmbH
und somit für diese KSR bilden:

  • UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and its three Optional Protocols (Optional Protocols to the Convention on the Rights of the Child); the four core principles contained therein (right to non-discrimination, primacy of the best interests of the child, right to life and personal development, and respect for the views of the child) are a self-evident part of the values upheld by Weitblick GmbH.
  • Federal Constitutional Act on the Rights of Children of 20 January 2011. Constitutionally enshrined therein are, in particular, the right to a violence-free upbringing (Art. 5), the right of the child to appropriate participation and consideration of their views in matters concerning them, and the principle of the primacy of the best interests of the child applicable throughout the legal and social system (Art. 1).
  • Further constitutional law foundations, in particular within the framework of the European Convention on Human Rights and the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights.
  • Austrian Civil Code (ABGB): Section 137, prohibition of violence, and Section 138, best interests of the child.
  • Federal Child and Youth Welfare Act 2013 (B-KJHG 2013), including Section 37, duty to report (notifications in cases of suspected endangerment of the child’s welfare).
  • Child and Youth Act of the State of Vorarlberg 2018 (Provincial Law Gazette No. 63/2018).
  • Criminal Code (StGB): Chapter 1, criminal offenses against life and limb; Chapter 10, criminal offenses against sexual integrity and self-determination – particularly relevant are Sections 206, 207, 207a, 207b, 208, 208a, 212, 214, 215a, and Section 220b; prohibition of activities.
  • Code of Criminal Procedure (StPO): Section 66(2) and Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO): paragraphs 1 and 2 of Section 73b concerning procedural support
  • Victims of Crime Act (VOG).

⁵ For Austria, see for example the information portals kinderrechte.gv.at – Children’s Rights in Austria as well as gewaltinfo.at – Information on Violence Prevention and Support Services

3. Violence Against Children and Adolescents – Explanations & Definitions

Violence against children and young people occurs in many different forms and situations and is usually associated with power imbalances and dependencies. According to the WHO definition, it includes threats and behaviour with the intention or acceptance of causing harm, and is directed against persons or objects. Violence can be perpetrated by adults against children, but also among children and young people; it also includes violence perpetrated by children against themselves (e.g. self-harming behaviour). In most cases, violence does not arise out of nowhere: it begins with boundary violations and assaults and can gradually escalate to violence that is punishable by law. 

Boundary violations refer to behaviours that unintentionally or accidentally/unwittingly cross the personal boundaries of others, either verbally or non-verbally. In an organisation where there is an atmosphere of mindfulness and respect, such boundary violations are corrected quickly and immediately.

Assaults are serious violations of boundaries that occur frequently and not by chance. They are deliberately planned and carried out in order to pursue one's own interests or needs (for power, sexual gratification, preferential treatment, etc.) at the expense of others.

Criminal violence includes acts such as harassment, torture, bodily harm, sexual abuse, severe neglect, rape, child prostitution, stalking, dangerous threats, sending nude photos or videos, and child pornography.

The KSR of Weitblick GmbH uses a broad definition of violence. Various forms of violence are briefly explained below. Children rarely experience only one form of violence, as physical or sexual violence, for example, is always linked to psychological violence.

4. Forms of Violence

Physical violence

Physical abuse of varying degrees of intensity directed against the body — ranging, for example, from a light slap to violent restraint or shaking, severe blows, and the use of sticks or other objects, as well as burns. Physical abuse of varying degrees of intensity directed against the body — ranging, for example, from a light slap to violent restraint or shaking, severe blows, and the use of sticks or other objects, as well as burns.

Sexual violence

The deliberate, manipulative exploitation of a position of power and dependency of adults (or adolescents) over children for the satisfaction of one’s own sexual or socio-emotional needs — for example, the use of sexually suggestive language and obscene questions, showing pornographic material, exposing or touching one’s own genitals in the presence of a child, the production and distribution of pornographic images/videos, coercion into sexual acts on oneself or on the child’s body, and rape.

Psychological violence

The exertion of psychological or emotional pressure on a person that undermines their integrity, self-worth, and dignity — including, among other things, shaming, coercing actions (e.g. through pressure to mobilize children for an institution), verbal abuse, intimidation, ignoring, isolation, highly contentious custody proceedings, stalking, mobbing/bullying, and sadistic forms of upbringing and instruction.

Violence conveyed by the media

Forms of violence that take place via information and communication technologies (e.g. social media), such as incitement to hatred/hate postings, cyberstalking, cyberbullying, cyber grooming (the initiation of sexualized violence via the internet), and happy slapping (filming and publishing violent attacks).

Neglect

The withholding of support and care and/or the inadequate fulfillment of a child’s needs (physical, psychological, emotional, social), despite the ability to provide such care — for example, denial of medical assistance to the child, lack of age-appropriate supervision, or, in extreme cases, abandonment of the child.

Witnessing violence

Witnessing domestic violence (any form of violence that takes place in the immediate social environment) or violence among peers – having to witness violence leads to stress such as fear for the (physical and psychological) safety of a loved one, feelings of anger and powerlessness, and internalisation of perpetrator and victim roles.

Violence in the name of honour and religious and cultural traditions

Violence is generally not specific to migration, culture or religion, but there is an increased risk of violence occurring within closed communities or communities with a strong family orientation and traditional or shame-based values regarding gender roles and (especially female) sexuality – this includes certain practices of corporal punishment, female genital mutilation, child marriage/forced marriage and acts of violence ‘in the name of honour’.

Institutional violence

Any form of violence and abuse of power against a child perpetrated by an adult authority figure within an institutional setting; this also includes the failure to recognize and to put an end to violence among children and adolescents within the institution.

5. Organizational Analysis

Weitblick GmbH conducted a participatory organisational analysis as part of the implementation of the KSR. The first step was to conduct a status analysis to identify which child protection-related documents, structures, processes, etc. were already in place.

Subsequently, as part of a participatory Risk and potential analysis identified potential risks and opportunities for improvement with regard to child protection within the organisation and during the activities of Weitblick GmbH, in collaboration with all employees. The analyses form the basis for the development and, where necessary, adaptation of child protection measures to reduce potential risks and further develop ideas and measures that have already been implemented.

Where possible, the risk and potential analysis is carried out in a participatory manner – together with employees, children and young people, and their caregivers. For example, children and young people can be asked about the potential risks they perceive within the framework of the projects (e.g. in the last session, at the end of the project). The results of this survey can be incorporated into the participatory risk and potential analysis.

The organisational analysis is carried out at least every three years as part of a KSR evaluation (external audit if possible). In addition, a standardised and documented risk assessment is carried out before the start or after the completion of (new) long-term projects and activities that involve working directly with children and young people.

6. Preventive Measures

To strengthen child well-being within the organisation and to prevent risks to children’s welfare, Weitblick GmbH implements the following preventive measures⁶: 

⁶ These are based on the international standards of KCS (Keeping Children Safe) as well as on the
child safeguarding requirements of Eurochild, Kindernothilfe e.V., and the standards of the Möwe Academy.

6.1 Code of Conduct

All persons who work for Weitblick GmbH or are commissioned by it (see Chapter 1. Areas of application and scope of the child protection policy and footnote on page 4) sign the ‘Weitblick GmbH Code of Conduct’ (see appendix) and thus undertake to comply with the rules of conduct and standards contained therein, which have been developed in collaboration with the employees.

This applies in particular to employees, external specialists or project staff, and volunteers. The code is based on child protection principles and the risks identified, and formulates specific desirable and undesirable forms of behaviour between adults and, in particular, towards children and young people. Weitblick GmbH ensures that employees can receive practical training on the contents of the code of conduct. Two days of training per year are available for this purpose (see Chapter 6.4 Personnel Development). In addition, the code of conduct is to be evaluated in terms of the participation of children and young people. The code of conduct is also communicated in an appropriate form to all children and young people participating in long-term projects.

Every employee of Weitblick GmbH is responsible for observing, publicising and disseminating the Code of Conduct. It serves as a tool for regular reflection on everyday working life and can be adapted as part of regular evaluations.

6.2 Rules of Conduct for Children and Adolescents

When interacting with children or young people, rules of conduct for interacting with each other are discussed with them and in accordance with the time resources available in the respective project (e.g. one-off workshop, long-term cooperation). In all cases, the consent of the children and young people is always obtained.

6.3 Staff Recruitment

All full-time and volunteer employees (including management) as well as freelancers and short-term contract workers are carefully selected and screened. Individuals who work for Weitblick GmbH on a long-term and regular basis must provide a criminal record certificate. If they work in direct contact with children, a criminal record certificate for child and youth welfare must also be provided every three years. The costs for the criminal record extract are paid by Weitblick GmbH.

Job advertisements contain a reference to Weitblick GmbH's child protection standards. During the recruitment and selection process, questions and tasks relating to child protection (e.g. attitudes towards violence against children) are discussed in personal interviews. Applicants are made aware of Weitblick GmbH's child protection standards during the interview. Identification with the child protection standards and signing the code of conduct are prerequisites for employment.

6.4 Staff Development

Weitblick GmbH ensures that all employees are sensitised and trained in child protection, violence prevention and non-violent interaction. Accordingly, employees (both internal and external) can take advantage of relevant training courses amounting to two working days per year, and information events and training courses are offered. New employees take part in child protection training within six months of joining the organisation.

Employees of Weitblick GmbH are entitled to external supervision of up to 12 sessions per year at the organisation's expense. Within this framework, child protection issues (e.g. specific challenges or relevant aspects relating to child protection in the work setting) can be raised if necessary. Intervision, reflection and discussion of the contents of the KSR take place in team meetings and other meeting settings (e.g. closed meetings).

6.5 Child Protection Officer (CPO)

Weitblick GmbH has two child protection officers (CPOs), one senior CPO and one deputy. They form a higher-level unit at management level with powers of intervention and responsibilities in internal child protection – where possible and necessary in consultation with the management.

The head of KSB is Daniel Scheyer, and the deputy head of KSB is Magdalena Tordy.

In addition to developing, updating and implementing the KSR, they are the point of contact in the event of concerns, complaints, crises or issues relating to internal child protection. For example, the KSBs are responsible for reporting to child and youth services in cases where a child's welfare is at risk. In addition, the KSBs are responsible for communicating child protection issues both internally and externally and act as the interface between management and external institutions or partner organisations in this area. An overview of the desired qualifications for KSBs can be found in the KSB requirements profile (see appendix).

The key framework conditions for KSB are:

  • Appointment by organizational management and standing within the organization
  • Freedom from instructions
  • Clear responsibilities, tasks, and procedures
  • Networking; external contact persons
  • Child Protection Knowledge & Practical Training
  • Access to relevant information
  • Equipment (premises, technology)
  • Secure documentation
  • At least two persons serve as Child Protection Officers (CPO); the four-eyes principle always applies
  • There is a designated CPO lead responsible for final decisions, especially in the event of a report to child and youth welfare services
  • Tasks may be distributed internally (e.g. other staff members may also assume implementation tasks within the scope of the CPP)
  • Working time: 20 working hours per year per CPO; if necessary, working hours may be adjusted in coordination with management
  • Budget: An allocation of 16 hours per year per CPO is provided for CPP-specific training and professional development

6.6 Responsibilities

Overall responsibility for the KSR lies with the management, which creates the necessary framework conditions (budget, personnel, access rights, etc.). The KSBs are responsible for developing, implementing and updating the contents of the KSR.

All individuals working for the organisation, including management, assume responsibility for their independent actions and leadership in accordance with the KSR.

6.7 External Ombudsperson

An independent, impartial and autonomous ombudsman service has been set up as an external point of contact for complaints regarding child protection within the organisation. To this end, an agreement has been reached with an independent ombudsman service (such as möwe or Kija Vorarlberg).

As part of the cooperation with this ombudsman service, parents, children, vulnerable persons and staff of Weitblick GmbH will in future have access to external confidants for questions relating to child protection. This will enable disputes or complaints against persons working for Weitblick GmbH to be discussed transparently and openly, thereby supporting reliable and professional case and complaint management.

6.8 Communication Standards

In order to protect children and young people from dangers such as violence or stigmatisation, Weitblick GmbH ensures that the standards of the Convention on the Rights of the Child are taken into account when creating and publishing/distributing media content, and that the dignity of children is preserved and their identity protected. Accordingly, locations and other identifying information that could lead to the whereabouts of children are changed.

Data protection and image rights

If photos or videos of children and young people are taken or their personal data such as name, place of residence, etc. is documented in the course of Weitblick GmbH's activities, the standards of the GDPR must be observed. This also applies to any form of data processing of personal information. The issue of photo rights is regularly discussed within the team in order to adequately protect the privacy of children and young people.

Communication and cooperation with the media

Weitblick GmbH informs media representatives about guidelines for reporting, including protective measures for particularly vulnerable children (and, if necessary, also conducts personal briefings for journalists; see recommendations for media reporting on children in the appendix).

Declarations of consent and agreement

If photos are to be published, for example, as part of project documentation, on social networks such as Facebook or on the website, the children and young people must give their consent, and the separate consent of their legal guardian(s) must also be obtained in each case.

If the child is younger than 14 years of age, the consent of the legal guardian is required. 12 If the young person is older than 14 years of age, the written consent of the young person is sufficient; according to the GDPR, the consent of the legal guardian is not required. As a matter of principle, Weitblick GmbH also obtains written consent from children under the age of 14.

Children and young people must be informed in a comprehensible manner about how the information or recordings will be used and that they have the right to refuse consent or withdraw it later. They must be asked whether they agree to their first name being shared with the information or image/film.

For events, especially those lasting several days and including travel, the supervision regulations and youth protection laws of the respective event locations shall be observed.

Internet, apps and social networks

All persons working for Weitblick GmbH are obliged to use the internet via all available channels (e.g. computers, smartphones, etc.) in accordance with the code of conduct. Any illegal use (e.g. downloading or creating inappropriate images of children, cyberbullying, etc.) will be investigated and punished.

Employees of Weitblick GmbH do not become ‘friends’ on social networks such as Facebook with children or young people who are participating or have participated in projects.

7. Case and Complaints Management

All decisions within the case and complaint management system at Weitblick GmbH are made in the interests of the welfare and protection of the child. To this end, Weitblick GmbH creates a framework that allows for complaints of all kinds, but especially those relating to experiences of violence. In this spirit, we foster a culture of trust, transparency and respect in which mistakes and complaints are addressed openly and honestly, solutions are developed jointly and continuous reflection takes place.

Appropriate guidelines and instructions (see appendix) have been developed for the professional handling of complaints and suspected cases involving any form of behaviour that is transgressive, abusive, unprofessional, violent, non-transparent, unlawful or inconsistent with the Weitblick mission statement.

The specific procedure to be followed in the event of a complaint or suspicion within the scope of Weitblick GmbH's activities is set out in the aforementioned guidelines and instructions (see appendix) and in the graphical action plan for suspected cases or crises (see appendix).

All persons in contact with Weitblick GmbH (children, young people, caregivers/parents, networking or cooperation partners, but also employees, etc.) are encouraged to submit complaints – either directly to the organisation, in particular the KSB, or indirectly via the external ombudsman.

Weitblick GmbH promptly investigates every reported suspected case (initial assessment by KSB on working days within 24 hours of the suspicion becoming known). Every suspected case and complaint is investigated adequately and promptly in order to identify and pursue cases of violence at an early stage. Weitblick GmbH ensures that affected children are protected as quickly as possible and have access to appropriate support services to prevent further harm.

Until the allegations have been clarified, cooperation with the person under suspicion will be suspended. The investigations must be conducted in accordance with data protection guidelines and on the basis of fair proceedings.

The respective procedures for suspected cases are differentiated according to internal and external persons and can be found in detailed form in the appendix. The processing and follow-up of complaints and suspected cases is documented in detail and filed in accordance with data protection regulations for sensitive data.

Weitblick GmbH ensures a secure flow of information between the relevant actors and decision-makers in the child protection system. The case and complaint management processes are known and accessible to all persons working for Weitblick GmbH and partner organisations, as well as external institutions/persons associated with Weitblick GmbH (e.g. through joint projects, financing, etc.).

Children and young people are informed in an appropriate manner and in understandable language about the complaints management system and the KSB as contact persons. This applies in particular when Weitblick GmbH itself carries out projects that involve direct contact with children.

8. Documentation, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Further Development

Weitblick GmbH regularly reviews the implementation of the KSR and all associated measures. The aim of documentation and evaluation is to initiate a process of continuous internal learning to improve the child protection system for Weitblick GmbH and its partner organisations. This ensures that incidents and complaints are handled professionally and in a manner that optimises quality. 

The KSR is continuously optimised and further developed through the following measures, for example:

  • The Child Protection Officers (CPOs) continuously document all relevant information in connection with the Child Protection Policy (CPP) (e.g. complaints, suspected cases) and report once per year to the management — in the form of a written contribution to the annual report — on progress, experiences, and achievements. Child protection and child welfare are planned as fixed agenda items during the annual retreat. The CPOs also regularly report on child protection issues during advisory board meetings.
  • Each individual (suspected) case or complaint is documented using standardized forms and stored in accordance with data protection regulations (for sensitive data).
  • The CPP is regularly addressed and further developed together with the employees of Weitblick GmbH. All employees are repeatedly and actively encouraged to forward relevant information to the CPOs.
  • Every three years, an evaluation of the CPP and its implementation is conducted. For this purpose, employees, interns, and volunteers are surveyed on how the CPP is implemented, how effective it is, and which improvements are necessary. Depending on feasibility and available financial resources, the ombudsperson or an external expert reviews the guidelines and practices.
  • If required, child protection standards and/or reporting procedures are adapted and updated accordingly. In doing so, changes to nationally and internationally applicable child protection standards are taken into account and incorporated.

In addition, the content management team and KSB regularly exchange information about cases that have arisen and news in the field of child protection, keep each other informed and plan necessary training courses for employees and partner organisations.

9. Awareness-Raising and Communication of the Child Protection Policy (CPP)

The CPP policy is decided upon at an advisory board meeting. Weitblick GmbH publishes the CSR policy on its website and informs employees and partner organisations about it. Partner organisations are also informed in detail about their responsibilities under the CSR policy in the Memorandum of Understanding.

An information sheet (short version) will be developed and distributed for communication to other external institutions/persons who are in contact with Weitblick GmbH. In addition, a version in a child-friendly form and language will be developed with the participation of children and young people for the communication of the most important content to them. 

10. Validity of the Child Protection Policy (CPP)

The CPP has been approved by the management and communicated to employees. It will be considered a binding guideline from 1 January 2023. 

11. Memorandum of Understanding for Partner Organizations

A large part of Weitblick GmbH's activities consists of cooperation with multipliers and partner organisations. These organisations carry out some of their services and programmes with and for children. It is important to Weitblick GmbH that children and young people feel safe and protected. In order to contribute to a non-violent environment for children and young people in society, Weitblick GmbH expects its cooperation partners and funding recipients to adhere to child protection standards.

Weitblick GmbH has therefore developed a Memorandum of Understanding (see appendix) for the joint implementation and financing of projects with children and young people. The standards and framework recommendations contained in this memorandum are intended, on the one hand, to supplement the partner organisations' own institutional mission statements and strengthen child rights standards and, on the other hand, to serve as a basis for the partners to develop and sustainably implement their own tailor-made CSR policies. Weitblick GmbH is happy to support its partners in this development by providing advice or arranging experts for further education and training.

Monitoring and evaluation

The partner organisations report regularly on relevant child protection issues in their quarterly reports. Those partners who are supported by Weitblick GmbH in developing their own CSR also report on their experiences with the development and implementation of their CSR. Weitblick GmbH collects these child protection issues and evaluates them in order to provide further recommendations or support where necessary. In addition, an institutionalised reflection on child protection issues is integrated into the annual closed-door meeting with the respective partner organisation.

Appendix

Contents:

  1. Code of Conduct – Weitblick GmbH
  2. Memorandum of Understanding for Partner Organizations of Weitblick GmbH
  3. Recommendations for Developing a Child Protection Policy (CPP)
  4. Action Plan
  5. Requirements Profile for Child Protection Officers
  6. Recommendations for Media Reporting on Children
  7. Checklist for Initial / Unclear Suspicion
  8. Guidelines and Instructions for Action – Procedure in Suspected or Crisis Cases
  9. Reporting Form for Child Protection Officers

1. Code of Conduct of Weitblick GmbH

Weitblick GmbH is committed to ensuring the well-being and protection of children and young people from violence, both within its own organisation and at events and projects for or with children and young people. This code therefore establishes guidelines for conduct that serve to prevent violence and express Weitblick GmbH's commitment to the welfare of children and their individual personal development. In doing so, the rights of children and young people are to be upheld and their participation enabled and encouraged.

This code of conduct is intended to ensure appropriate interaction between employees (permanent employees, project employees and volunteers) and children, and to ensure that adults take joint responsibility for the safety and well-being of children and young people.

Name: 
Position: 

By signing this document, I undertake to

  • to comply with the guidelines of Weitblick GmbH;
  • to take responsibility for observing, communicating, and disseminating the rules of conduct within my working environment;
  • to respond immediately to any concerns, allegations, and incidents and to inform the Child Protection Officers without delay or, where appropriate, to seek external support (e.g. from the ombudsperson);
  • to recognize, in accordance with a humanistic view of humanity, the equal value, dignity, and self-determination of all people.

In this sense, I will

  • contribute to creating a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for children;
  • take the opinions and concerns of children seriously and promote them as individuals;
  • support children in becoming responsible and empowered members of society;
  • actively work to enable and promote the social participation of children and adolescents;
  • treat all children with dignity and respect;
  • as a contribution to violence prevention, specifically promote the personal and social competencies of children and serve as a role model for mindful and empathetic interaction with oneself and others;
  • communicate challenging or distressing topics (e.g. the climate crisis) in an age-appropriate manner, so that engagement with these topics does not lead to emotional overload and young people do not lose hope for the future;
  • where possible, follow the “two-adults rule,” meaning ensuring that another adult is present, within reach, or informed when individual training sessions, personal conversations with a child, educational activities, or medical treatments are carried out. If individual counseling or treatment is required, consent from the legal guardian is obtained where possible, and another adult is informed about when and where this takes place;
  • when photographing, filming, or reporting in public relations work, respect the dignity and protection needs of children, handle personal data with care, and require the same standard from third parties who cooperate with Weitblick GmbH, are supported by Weitblick GmbH, or receive information about children through Weitblick GmbH;
  • address observations, experiences, and concerns directly and openly;
  • critically reflect on unsettling situations and intuitions (especially boundary violations by others), including those involving staff of partner organizations; where necessary, take appropriate action and inform the persons concerned if there is no consensus in line with the Code of Conduct;
  • feel responsible for protecting children from violence and report indications, concerns, and observations (including one’s own behavior) immediately to the Child Protection Officers, and coordinate further steps with them or colleagues in accordance with the four-eyes principle;
  • recognize and respect the individual boundaries of the child, especially with regard to privacy and personal modesty;
  • safeguard the child’s personal integrity;
  • practice a responsible approach to physical and emotional closeness and distance;
  • maintain a responsible approach to gifts and not accept personal monetary gifts from project participants or staff of partner organizations; non-monetary gifts may be accepted only up to a value of €100 (e.g. handmade items, chocolates, flowers, coffee for the team), provided that acceptance does not compromise one’s independent professional judgment;
  • represent the shared values of Weitblick GmbH and draw the attention of others (e.g. children and adolescents, caregivers, staff of partner organizations, stakeholders, etc.) to these values.

In addition, I will refrain from any form of discrimination or physical, psychological or sexual violence.That means that I never

  • exploit the power granted by my position or my influence over a child’s life and well-being;
  • hit children or physically assault them in any other way; I will carry out educational measures without violence and without humiliation;
  • sexually, physically, or emotionally abuse or exploit a child, and in particular never engage in sexual activities with or involving a child or expose a child to pornographic material;
  • hold, stroke, kiss, or touch children in an inappropriate or culturally insensitive manner;
  • use inappropriate, indecent, or abusive language;
  • make sexual remarks or engage in ambiguous or suggestive behavior toward a child;
  • assist a child, without being asked, with intimate tasks that the child can manage independently (e.g. accompanying a child to the toilet, bathing, or changing clothes);
  • establish a relationship with a child that could be perceived as exploitative;
  • spend excessive amounts of time alone with a single child, separated from other children;
  • tolerate or support illegal, dangerous, or violent behavior toward children;
  • ask a child for favors or services that could be considered abusive or exploitative;
  • conceal or cover up inappropriate or criminal behavior by another adult (e.g. colleagues, including those with whom one may also have a private friendship);
  • manipulate or indoctrinate children intellectually (e.g. impose a political ideology) or restrict them in their freedom of thought.

Measures and sanctions

If behaviour or actions come to light that give rise to suspicion of a violation of the Code of Conduct, this suspicion must be reported immediately to the child protection officers. They will investigate the suspicion as quickly as possible in accordance with standard procedure.

The procedure must be carried out in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity and quality assurance measures must be taken. Violations can lead to discussions and specific training measures, warnings, or even termination of employment. If Weitblick GmbH becomes aware that a cooperation partner is violating the code of conduct, the cooperation will be terminated if possible, or the matter will be pursued until it is clarified.

Date: 
Place: 
Signature: 

2. Memorandum of Understanding für Partnerorganisationen der Weitblick GmbH

This Memorandum of Understanding forms the binding basis for cooperation between Weitblick GmbH and its partner organisations (cooperation partners and funding recipients). It serves to ensure and promote the protection and safety of children and young people as far as possible. Individual partner organisations selected by Weitblick GmbH must develop a child protection policy (CPP) within one year of signing this memorandum and implement it sustainably within the organisation. The management is available to answer organisational questions, while the Weitblick child protection officers (CPO) are available to answer questions regarding child protection content.

Child protection standards

As a partner organisation of Weitblick GmbH, we adhere to the definitions of violence formulated in the Weitblick GmbH child protection guidelines (see Chapter 3) and the legal framework (see Chapter 2).

We set out in writing and in a binding manner how we intend to protect children and young people from harm and focus on child welfare and children's rights. We also set standards for how to respond to cases of violence or complaints concerning child welfare. In addition to the recommendations and content listed in Chapter 4 (see Appendix to the Child Protection Policy of Weitblick GmbH), the following content, among other things, must be considered and developed:

  • How do we commit ourselves to preventing harm to vulnerable persons and to responding appropriately to potential incidents?
  • Zero tolerance for violence against vulnerable persons such as children and adolescents — all people should be protected from all forms of violence;
  • How do we communicate protection standards within the organization and to the public?

Child protection knowledge and responsibility

As a partner organization of Weitblick GmbH, we:

  • provide all employees with external training conducted by experts to raise awareness of child protection issues and violence; where applicable, these trainings take place jointly with trainings of Weitblick GmbH, and the resulting costs are shared between the organizations (details are subject to negotiation);
  • clarify responsibilities and expectations for our employees and support them in understanding and acting in accordance with child protection standards;
  • appoint at least two employees as Child Protection Officers (CPOs); these persons are responsible for handling concerns and incidents;
  • foster a culture of openness and appreciation in which observations and mistakes can be openly addressed and resolved.

Case Management and Reporting in Cases of Suspicion or Crisis

As a partner organization of Weitblick GmbH, we develop a system (case and complaints management) for the reporting, notification, and follow-up of suspected cases, with clear definitions of responsibilities and communication processes.

Accordingly, we:enable our employees and, in particular, affected persons to report concerns (anonymously) within the framework of low-threshold and standardized internal procedures;

  • enable our employees and, in particular, affected persons to report concerns (anonymously) within the framework of low-threshold and standardized internal procedures;
  • ensure the safety of affected persons and whistleblowers involved in incidents and report legal violations to the competent local authorities;
  • appoint at least two Child Protection Officers (CPOs) who are responsible for all aspects of child protection and child welfare, as well as for preventive measures, concerns, and suspected cases.

Monitoring and Evaluation

As a partner organization of Weitblick GmbH, we:

  • commit to regularly observing, reviewing, and updating child protection standards and their effective and sustainable implementation;
  • report regularly to Weitblick GmbH in quarterly reports on our experiences with the development and/or implementation of our Child Protection Policy (CPP) and on other relevant child protection topics;
  • exchange information on child protection issues and, where applicable, on our CPP during the annual retreat held with Weitblick GmbH.

We acknowledge that during the duration of a (funded) project, we must immediately inform Weitblick GmbH of any serious cases of violence. Serious cases are allegations that constitute a criminal offence under local law, such as sexualised violence or rape, or domestic violence.

Reports should be made without naming individuals and will be treated confidentially.

3. Recommendations for the Development of a Child Protection Policy (CPP)

The development of the child safeguarding requirements (CSR) should be aligned with the international standards of Keeping Children Safe⁷, which are also used as a guideline by most donors as well as by the European Commission. Existing guidelines should be reviewed to assess the extent to which they comply with these international standards.

Before creating a KSR, a thorough organisational analysis should be carried out. The KSR should be based on a detailed analysis of the specific hazards and risks that exist within the scope of the programmes and services offered to children and young people. The analysis takes into account the specific characteristics of the organisation or institution, includes existing guidelines or those specified by funding bodies, and builds on these.

Structure and content of a child protection policy (CPP)

A set of child safeguarding requirements (CSR) should include at least the following elements⁸:

Introduction

  • Purpose and scope of the KSR
  • Definition of violence against children and young people
  • Legal framework

Organizational Analysis (Baseline Analysis & Risk and Potential Analysis)

Preventive Measures

  • Codes of conduct for employees
  • Standards for the organization’s personnel policy (e.g. recruitment of new employees based on a meaningful selection process, including reference and background checks; further training on child protection topics; supervision, etc.)
  • Communication standards (press, fundraising, etc.)
  • Codes of conduct for persons connected to the organization (donors, individual sponsors, board members, volunteers, etc.)

Complaints and Case Management

  • Appointment of Child Protection Officers (CPOs), including the development of a requirements profile for CPOs; these persons are responsible for all aspects of child protection and child welfare, as well as for appropriate preventive measures, concerns, and suspected cases
  • System for reporting, notification, and follow-up of suspected cases with clearly defined responsibilities and communication processes
  • Protection system for affected children

Documentation and Further Development

  • Regular review and revision of the Child Protection Policy (CPP)

⁷ See Keeping Children Safe – International Safeguarding Standards
⁸ Based on Keeping Children Safe and Kindernothilfe e. V. – Child Protection Policy (PDF)

4. Action Plan

The results of the participatory risk and potential analysis (see Chapter 5: Organizational Analysis), which form the basis for the development and, where necessary, adaptation of child protection measures, are compiled in an action plan. This plan documents and evaluates the corresponding ideas for further development and measures to reduce potential risks. The action plan therefore serves as an overview of all planned and already implemented measures in the interest of child protection and child welfare.

5. Requirements Profile for Child Protection Officers

Professional Background:

  1. Professional Background:

Additional knowledge desirable:

  1. Education or further training in the prevention of violence and/or sexualized violence
  2. Sex education or further training in sexual pedagogy
  3. Skills in conducting conversations in crisis situations; de-escalation in cases of violence, including sexualized violence

Other relevant information:

  1. A reflective and responsible approach to violence and sexuality
  2. Very good knowledge of the structures of one’s own organization and strong networking with professional circles and support services
  3. Avoidance of conflicts of interest within the organization: trusted persons should be able to handle cases neutrally and objectively and should not simultaneously hold a leadership role (or at least not primarily) with personnel responsibility
  4. Tandem models are possible — for example, one person from the organization’s office working together with a volunteer or an external person
  5. Ideally, the teams responsible for child protection should be gender-diverse.

6. Recommendations for Media Reporting on Children

Weitblick GmbH welcomes and supports journalistic reporting on its work in general as well as on specific projects and activities involving children and adolescents. Media coverage can make a significant contribution to the realisation of children’s rights. In all our activities, the well-being, protection, and safety of children are our top priority. The following recommendations serve as additional ethical guidance for the specific challenges that may arise when reporting on children⁹:

  • All media content is based on the values of respect and equality and preserves the dignity of the persons portrayed.
  • When children and adolescents or their living conditions are portrayed, it must be ensured that representations are age-appropriate and that children and adolescents are able to express their own perspectives.
  • Children are portrayed as individuals with many facets and potentials. Reducing them to a victim role or other stereotypes is avoided.
  • Before media content is created, the children concerned and their caregivers/parents must be informed in a clear and understandable manner about the purpose and use of the content.
  • Consent for the creation of media content must be obtained from the children concerned and from their parents or caregivers. In general project reporting, this may be given verbally by the reporter or obtained in advance by project staff. In reports focusing on individual children, a detailed explanation of the purpose and use of the media content is required, along with written consent from the child and/or their parents or legal guardians.
  • The privacy of all persons involved in the project and the project environment is respected at all times.
  • Pseudonyms are always used for children unless mentioning the child’s name is in the child’s best interest and is done with the consent of the child and their parents or legal guardians.
  • Children must be appropriately dressed.
  • The description of children’s life situations always takes place in the context of their social, cultural, and economic environment.
  • The use of images stored by Weitblick GmbH follows the principles outlined above, meaning that publication always takes place in consideration of child protection principles (even if subsequent consent from the child concerned can no longer be obtained).
  • Since Weitblick GmbH cannot trace the creation process of images provided by third parties, original images should always be preferred over agency images.

In public reporting about particularly vulnerable children, additional protective measures must be applied, as they may be at increased risk of stigmatization or further violence. Particularly vulnerable children include, among others:

  • children who have been victims of sexual or other forms of violence;
  • children with disabilities;
  • children affected by HIV/AIDS;
  • children who are accused of having committed an offense or who have committed a criminal act;
  • children who have been recruited and exploited by armed groups;
  • asylum-seeking children, refugees, or internally displaced children;
  • traumatized children (e.g. following natural disasters, armed conflicts, etc.).

In these cases, the risks that may arise from media reporting must be carefully assessed and clarified with the management of Weitblick GmbH prior to publication.

A detailed guideline for safeguarding and implementing children’s rights in media reporting can be found here. here.

⁹ Based on the recommendations of Kindernothilfe e. V.

7. Checklist for Suspected Cases

If you are unsure whether you have a Suspected violence against children (physical, psychological, sexual and neglect; harmful practices, child trafficking, structural violence), this checklist can help you make your decision:

Which incident / which observation is the concern based on?YESNO
Were you a witness to violence against a child or an adolescent?□□
Do you have a concrete suspicion that someone has exercised violence against a child or an adolescent?□□
Is someone being accused or alleged to have exercised violence?□□
Does your concern fall into one of the following categories?□□
–A child may be neglected.□□
–A child may be physically abused.□□
–A child may be emotionally abused.□□
–A child may be sexually abused.□□

Your suspicion is considered justified if you can answer “Yes” to any of the above questions.

It is your duty to report this suspicion using this form so that the child can be protected from violence.

If you are concerned about a child but this concern currently feels more like a “gut feeling” (and you answered the above questions with “No”), please still remain attentive: continue to observe the child, reflect further on the situation, offer yourself as a trusted person to the child, and consult with the Child Protection Officers (CPOs) and/or colleagues (four-eyes principle), or, if necessary, with child and youth welfare services or child protection experts (anonymous consultation is also possible).

8. Guidelines and Instructions for Action – Procedures in Cases of Suspicion or Crisis

The experiences that children and young people have with participation and dealing with their complaints lay the groundwork for them to confide in someone when serious boundaries are crossed. For this reason, internal and external complaint options have been created for children, their caregivers and employees, and a standardised procedure has been developed for suspected cases and crises. The overriding guiding principle when dealing with suspected cases and crises is always the welfare of the child.

The child protection officers (KSB) at Weitblick GmbH are responsible for and serve as the central point of contact for all errors, complaints and suspected cases. They carry out initial investigations and decide on further steps in consultation with the management. The persons concerned are informed about the procedure in compliance with applicable data protection regulations and confidentiality obligations.

A distinction can be made between three scenarios:

  1. Internal cases:
    The suspected case concerns full-time or voluntary employees of Weitblick GmbH or other persons acting on behalf of Weitblick GmbH, such as external trainers, journalists, board members, consultants, etc.
  2. External cases:
    Employees of Weitblick GmbH become aware, in the course of carrying out activities or projects/workshops (e.g. in schools), of violence against children that lies outside the immediate responsibility or jurisdiction of Weitblick GmbH, for example within the family.
  3. Partner organizations:
    The suspected case concerns a person for whom a partner organization is legally responsible (cooperation partner or funding recipient).

The procedure for situations a) and b) is clearly illustrated in the process flowchart below (Chapter 9). For situation c) — a violation by a partner organization of the Child Protection Policy (CPP) of Weitblick GmbH — the following applies:

If Weitblick GmbH becomes aware of a child-protection-relevant case within the area of responsibility of a partner organization (cooperation partner or funding recipient) or of a violation by a partner organization of minimum standards, the following steps are initiated as part of crisis management to clarify the situation:

  1. Step: Written notification to the management and/or the Child Protection Officers (CPOs) of the partner organization outlining the facts of the case and requesting an immediate response. 
  2. Step: Personal meeting
    a) Clarification or corrective action by the partner organization → case closed; if necessary, monitoring of the outcome
    b) No immediate clarification possible or unclear procedures on the part of the partner organization → suspension of the cooperation until the matter is clarified
  3. Step: Weitblick GmbH reserves the right to terminate the cooperation immediately in the event of serious or negligent violations or non-compliance with minimum standards.

Procedure for Handling Cases and Complaints

Case and Complaint Management
This textual description complements the graphical representation of the process flow “Case and Complaint Management” and describes the process step by step in an accessible format.

1. General Principles

  • For the entire process, the four-eyes principle agreed within the KSB team as well as the need-to-know principle apply.
  • The entire process must be documented, in particular the receipt of the complaint, decision-making processes, measures taken, and outcomes.
  • Documentation is carried out within the framework of case and complaint management.
  • Throughout the entire process, it must be regularly assessed whether there is a risk to a child’s well-being (KGW).

2. Receipt of the Complaint

  • Complaints may be submitted externally (e.g. by parents, legal guardians, or external persons) or internally (e.g. by staff members).
  • Complaints can be submitted through various channels:
    • personally
    • via email
    • via a complaints box
  • Suspected cases or complaints are collected and handled by the Child Safeguarding Officer (CSO).

3. Acceptance and Initial Response

  • The Child Safeguarding Officer (KSB) receives the complaint.
  • Within 24 hours of receipt, the person submitting the complaint receives a standardised acknowledgement confirming that the complaint has been received.
  • All communication is conducted in a transparent and respectful manner.

4. Review of the Information

  • Existing information is reviewed.
  • If necessary, additional information is obtained in order to better assess the situation.

Review of Responsibility

  • It is assessed whether the Child Safeguarding Officer (KSB) is responsible for handling the complaint.
  • If not:
    • The complaint is forwarded to the responsible authority.
    • The complaint is thereby considered submitted.
  • If yes:
    • The complaint is further processed by the KSB.

6. Assessment of the Complaint with Regard to Child Well-being

  • The complaint is assessed with regard to a potential risk to a child’s well-being (KGW).
  • A distinction is made between:
    • vague suspicion
    • concrete suspicion

7. Decision: Is there a risk to a child’s well-being?

7.1 If a risk to a child’s well-being is identified

  • Management takes over the case together with the Child Safeguarding Officer (KSB).
  • The procedure for reporting a risk to a child’s well-being is carried out in accordance with applicable regulations.
  • In this case, management bears ultimate responsibility.

7.2 If no risk to a child’s well-being is identified

  • It is examined whether the risk can be averted through internal measures and voluntary actions.
  • Case responsibility within the KSB team is defined.

8. Planning and Implementation of Internal Measures

  • Appropriate internal measures are developed.
  • In this process:
    • Risk and action plans can be developed
    • Measures can be coordinated with supervisors
    • External experts may be involved if necessary
  • The measures are communicated transparently to the persons involved:
    • Vorgesetzte
    • Personen, gegen die sich die Beschwerde richtet
    • betroffene Kinder (alters- und situationsgerecht)

9. Implementation of the Measures

  • The planned measures are implemented.
  • Währenddessen erfolgt eine kontinuierliche und transparente Rückmeldung an:
    • die beschwerdeführende Person
    • das betroffene Kind

10. Review of effectiveness

  • It is reviewed whether a solution has been found.
  • If not:
    • The process returns to the planning of measures and is carried out again.
  • If yes:
    • The process is continued.

11. Closing phase

  • The results are discussed with the affected team if necessary.
  • If necessary, the following:
    • (external) supervision
    • follow-up / processing processes

    are initiated.

  • Relevant learnings are incorporated into quality assurance (e.g. content, statistics).

12. Closure of the complaint

  • All persons involved are informed about the closure of the complaint.
  • The complaint is considered closed.
  • The documentation is finalized and archived.

Description of the process

Report in cases of suspected child endangerment (KWG)
This text version supplements the graphical representation of the procedure “Report in cases of suspected child endangerment (KWG)” and describes the process step by step in an accessible format.

1. General Principles

  • For the entire process, ongoing and standardized documentation of the suspected case is required using a form.
  • The documentation is carried out in a professionally and organizationally transparent manner.
  • Throughout the entire process, the well-being and safety of the affected child are the central focus.

2. Receipt of a suspicion of child endangerment

  • A suspicion of child endangerment is received.
  • The suspected case is recorded and documented.

3. Review of the child’s safety

  • It is assessed whether the child is currently safe.

3.1 Decision: Is the child safe?

a) If the child is not safe (acute case)

  • It is an acute case.
  • Immediate assistance is alerted.
  • Hilfsmaßnahmen können beinhalten:
    • Beiziehen von Rettung
    • Kontaktaufnahme mit der Polizei
    • Hinzuziehen einer Ärztin oder eines Arztes
  • After initiating emergency assistance, the further professional process is continued.

b) If the child is safe

  • The process is continued without emergency assistance.

4. Professional assessment

  • The suspected case is assessed from a professional perspective.
  • If necessary, coordination takes place with external experts, for example:
    • child protection center
    • child and youth welfare services / youth advocacy

5. Information of the organization’s management

  • The organization’s management is informed about the suspected case.
  • Responsibility lies both at the professional and the organizational level.

6. Report to child and youth welfare services

  • A report is made to child and youth welfare services.
  • If required, an additional report to the authorities is filed.

7. Follow-up within the team

  • The results of the procedure are discussed with the affected team or the affected staff members.
  • If necessary, the following:
    • (external) supervision
    • follow-up / processing processes

    are initiated.

8. Quality assurance

  • Relevant insights and experiences from the suspected case are recorded as learnings.
  • These are incorporated into quality assurance, for example:
    • content-related insights
    • statistical evaluations

9. Information about the conclusion

  • All persons involved are informed about the conclusion of the suspected case.

10. Closure of the case

  • The suspected case is considered closed.
  • The documentation is fully finalized and archived.
Reporting Form for Suspected Cases of Violence Against Children
E-mail to the Child Protection Officers (CPOs) within 24 hours after you become aware of a suspicion
Date:
 
Place:
 
Person, die meldet
Name:
 
Position:
 
Phone:
 
e-mail:
 
Child / Adolescent Concerned
Last name:
 
First name:
 
Date of birth:
 
Gender:
 
Nationality:
 
Address and contact details:
Who is responsible for the child / who has legal guardianship?
Are any other persons or children involved?
Person Suspected
Last name:
 
First name:
 
Age:
 
Gender:
 
Nationality:
 
Address and contact details:
Who does the person work for?
What is the person’s relationship to the child?
If several persons are involved in the incident/suspicion, please add this information at the end of the report.
Facts of the Incident
Date:
 
Time:
 
Place:
 
Wie sind Sie auf den Vorfall aufmerksam geworden?
☐ Persönliche Beobachtung
☐ Kolleg:in hat erzählt
☐ Kind bzw. Jugendliche:r hat sich mir anvertraut
Other relevant information:
Were there any other witnesses to the incident?
☐ Ja ☐ Nein
If yes, please provide name, position, and contact details:
Please now describe the incident in as much detail as possible:
Protective Measures for the Child
What immediate actions were taken to protect the child?

9. Reporting Form for Child Protection Officers

Reporting Form for Suspected Cases of Violence Against Children
E-mail to the Child Protection Officers (CPOs) within 24 hours after you become aware of a suspicion
Date:   Place:  
Reporting Person
Name:   Position:  
Phone:   e-mail:  
Child / Adolescent Concerned
Last name:   First name:  
Date of birth:   Gender: Nationality: 
Address and contact details:
 
Who is responsible for the child / who has legal guardianship?
 
Are any other persons or children involved?
 
Person Suspected
Last name:   First name:  
Age:   Gender: Nationality: 
Address and contact details:
 
Who does the person work for?
 
What is the person’s relationship to the child?
 
If several persons are involved in the incident/suspicion, please add this information at the end of the report.
Facts of the Incident
Date:   Time: Place: 
How did you become aware of the incident? – Please tick:
Personal observation ☐ Colleague informed me ☐ Child/adolescent confided in me ☐
Other relevant information:
 
Were there any other witnesses to the incident?   Yes ☐  No ☐
If yes, please provide name, position, and contact details:
 
Please now describe the incident in as much detail as possible:
Protective Measures for the Child
What immediate actions were taken to protect the child?
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Head office Vorarlberg

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A-6840 Götzis

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Bruno-Marek-Allee 5/7
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Email address

office(at)weitblick-gmbh.org

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