- Status
- Published
- Version
- 1.0
- Effective
- 19 June 2026
- Last reviewed
- 19 June 2026
- Review cycle
- Annually
- Last updated
- 19 June 2026
1. Our commitment
Sister EF Legacy of Purpose Foundation believes every child and every vulnerable adult has the right to safety, dignity and a life free from harm. We will not knowingly engage any person, partner or activity that places them at risk.
2. Scope
This policy applies to every staff member, volunteer, board member, contractor, partner and visitor who interacts with children or vulnerable adults through any Foundation activity, online or in person.
3. Definitions
- Child: any person under the age of 18.
- Vulnerable adult: any adult who, by reason of age, illness, disability or circumstance, is at increased risk of harm.
- Abuse: physical, emotional, sexual, neglect, financial exploitation or any form of harm or threatened harm.
4. Core principles
- The best interests of the child or vulnerable adult come first, always.
- We listen. Children and vulnerable adults have the right to be heard.
- Two-adult rule: no volunteer or staff member should be alone with a child outside of a supervised setting.
- Appropriate physical contact only: brief, in public view, with consent.
- No private one-to-one digital communication between adults and children outside Foundation channels.
5. Recruitment and vetting
Every staff member and volunteer working with children completes an application, provides references and consents to a background check where legally permitted. Anyone with a relevant criminal conviction will not be placed in contact with children.
6. Training
All staff and volunteers receive safeguarding orientation before commencing duties. Team leads receive refresher training annually.
7. Reporting a concern
If you witness, suspect or are told about possible abuse or harm:
- Ensure the immediate safety of the child or vulnerable adult.
- Listen without interrogating. Do not promise to keep secrets.
- Record what you observed or were told, in writing, as soon as possible.
- Report to the Safeguarding Lead at info@eflegacy.org within 24 hours.
- If a child is in immediate danger, contact the South African Police Service (10111) or the equivalent emergency service in your country first.
8. Response
Every concern is taken seriously and investigated promptly, fairly and confidentially. Where there is reasonable suspicion of abuse, the matter is reported to the relevant statutory authority. We support those affected throughout the process.
9. Whistle-blower protection
We protect anyone who reports a concern in good faith. Retaliation against a reporter is itself a breach of this policy and will be acted upon.
10. Review
This policy is reviewed annually by the Board and updated to reflect best practice and the law.
Questions about this policy? Email info@eflegacy.org and a member of our team will respond within five working days.