Tender Hands - Child Safety Policy

	The well being, safety and protection of every child entrusted to Tender Hands is the first priority at all times. We believe that all children have the right to live a life free of abuse or exploitation and we are obligated to create and sustain a shelter that aims to prevent these situations and promotes our child safety policy. We are confident that our sponsors will join us in following our child safety policy so that, together, we can do our best to ensure that these children remain safe. While the majority of individuals mean well, we must safeguard against the few who do not. We are sure you understand the need to protect these precious children that have been entrusted to Tender Hands.
	We must ensure that our children are not exposed to exploitation or abuse at any level or at any time. Sponsors and Visitors must agree and adhere to these policies.
	A sponsor will be allowed to meet a child only in the presence of Tender Hands staff and only at the shelter location, no private meetings such as hotel rooms or private residences will be permitted.
	When available, a background check or verification of the sponsor will be carried out prior to the visit.
	No unannounced visits will be permitted.
	Any requests for volunteering and social work in our project locations will be entertained only after a rigorous verification has been completed.
	Anyone suspected of child abuse or inappropriate behavior will be dealt with severely, that will include a criminal investigation by law enforcement.
	Tender Hands will only communicate about the children in a manner that shows them as dignified citizens. We will not portray them as victims, nor exaggerate or glamorize the poverty and challenges they face.
	Tender Hands will maintain all records about sponsored children along with information about their status in strict confidentiality.