Child protection policy

Last updated: 8 November 2026

Our promise

The learners we support are children. Their safety, privacy and dignity come before fundraising, reporting and publicity.

Selection

• Learners are selected with the school using written criteria, and guardians agree before a child is included.
• No child is chosen or excluded because of their background, gender, disability, religion or beliefs.

Handover

• Handovers happen at the school, with guardians invited and at least two adults present.
• Items are given quietly. No child is made to feel singled out or grateful on display.
• Foundation staff, volunteers and visitors are never alone with a child.

Photos and stories

• We take no identifiable photograph or video of a child without written guardian consent.
• We do not publish children's names, home addresses or the names of their schools alongside their image.
• Stories used in reports are anonymous or told with the guardian's consent.

Conduct

Everyone who works or volunteers with us agrees to follow this policy and to treat children with respect. We do not allow any form of abuse, exploitation or harassment.

Raising a concern

If you are worried about a child's safety, tell the school principal and, where a child is at risk, the South African Police Service or a registered child protection organisation. You can also tell us at info@indlelayethemba.co.za, and we will act promptly and treat the matter confidentially.

Review

We will review this policy each year and whenever we start working in a new area.