International Health Partners’ Safeguarding Action Group: embedding a safeguarding priority culture

In the complex landscape of international health and humanitarian work, safeguarding is more than a procedural necessity; it’s a fundamental commitment to ensuring the safety and dignity of everyone we engage with.

Recognising the importance of safeguarding, International Health Partners (IHP) initiated the Safeguarding Action Group, an internal body dedicated to embedding a robust safeguarding culture within the organisation. We wanted to ensure that the group was both purposeful in its ambition, but practical in its approach to balance alongside our day-to-day work.

Inception and Setup

The Safeguarding Action Group was born out of a strategic vision to enhance safeguarding practices within IHP. Understanding the imperative need for a structured approach, we began by assembling a diverse yet relevant team of stakeholders who could champion this cause across different facets of the organisation. The group comprises the CEO, who acts as the safeguarding lead, alongside the communications director, the programmes director, and the compliance manager. Ensuring the correct and relevant people are around the table is key to ensure a comprehensive perspective on safeguarding issues and practices, and to practically embed this within the organisation at a team level.

The initial setup involved defining clear objectives and creating a framework that would guide our activities. Our primary goals were to embed better safeguarding practices across the organisation, establish a clear and accessible reporting process, keep the board actively informed and involved, and develop comprehensive training materials and sessions for trustees and staff alike. The group reports to the Board via the Governance Risk Management committee (GRMC), with the Board and GRMC agenda including a safeguarding standing agenda item

Key Deliverables

Embedding better safeguarding practices

We aim to integrate safeguarding into every aspect of our organisational culture. This involves developing policies and procedures that are not only comprehensive but also user-friendly and accessible to staff members, trustees and our partners.

Clear reporting processes

Transparency and clarity in reporting safeguarding concerns are paramount. We have worked on creating straightforward reporting mechanisms that encourage prompt and accurate reporting, ensuring every concern is taken seriously and addressed efficiently.

Board involvement

A top-down approach to safeguarding was essential. By keeping the board informed and involved, we ensure that safeguarding is prioritised at the highest levels of decision-making, reflecting its importance in our organisational ethos. We have appointed a trustee safeguarding lead and offer safeguarding training to all trustees periodically.

Training and documentation

We have focused on creating clear, accessible training materials and processes. These resources are designed to educate and empower our staff and trustees, ensuring everyone is well-versed in our safeguarding policies and practices.

Achievements and Impact

Action plan and accountability

We developed a comprehensive Action Plan with specific timelines and designated owners for each task. This plan has been instrumental in driving accountability and ensuring that safeguarding measures are implemented effectively. Our initial goals were quickly met, and we have now entered a phase of continual improvement and learning.

Stakeholder representation

The group’s composition reflects a broad spectrum of perspectives within IHP. This inclusive approach ensures that safeguarding is considered from multiple angles, leading to more robust and well-rounded practices.

Training and induction

Safeguarding training is now a core component of our staff induction process. Every employee is required to read our safeguarding processes and undergo training upon joining, with biennial refreshers to keep knowledge up-to-date.

Sustaining the group

To keep the momentum going, we focus on continuous learning and resource sharing. Each member of the group is responsible for bringing new insights and resources to our discussions. We actively participate in networks such as Bond and the Integral Alliance, which offer valuable peer learning opportunities and keep us informed about best practices and emerging trends in safeguarding.

Achievability and efficiency

One of the strengths of our Safeguarding Action Group is its efficiency and practicality. The group meets quarterly, a frequency that balances the need for regular oversight with the demands of our busy schedules. Of course, should a safeguarding concern arise, we are prepared to meet more often to address the issue promptly.

Clear actions with achievable timelines are established after each meeting, ensuring that responsibilities are well-defined and manageable. Meetings are designed to be concise and focused, making the most of our time together and maintaining a clear direction for our efforts.

The establishment of the Safeguarding Action Group at International Health Partners has been a transformative step in embedding a culture of safeguarding within our organisation. Through clear and realistic objectives, inclusive representation, continuous learning, and a practical approach, we have made significant strides in ensuring the safety and dignity of all those we work with.

The success of this group underscores the importance of safeguarding as a core organisational priority and demonstrates that with commitment and collaboration, meaningful change is both achievable and sustainable.