Position Summary

The Safeguarding Officer will lead the design, implementation, and monitoring of safeguarding systems in compliance with national child protection frameworks and donor requirements. This role will ensure that all project activities adhere to zero-tolerance policies on abuse, exploitation, and harassment, particularly in training centers and community-based interventions.

Scope of Work and Key Responsibilities

A. Safeguarding Systems Strengthening

• Contextualize and implement safeguarding policies in line with Punjab Child Protection systems.
• Develop safeguarding SOPs for training centers, field activities, and community engagement.
• Conduct periodic safeguarding risk mapping for each intervention site.

B. Case Management & Referral Mechanisms

• Establish confidential complaint response mechanisms (CRM).
• Handle safeguarding cases with survivor-centered approach.
• Coordinate referrals with District Child Protection Units, Social Welfare Department, and legal aid services.

C. Training & Awareness

• Conduct mandatory safeguarding induction for all staff and partners.
• Lead community awareness sessions (parents, youth, CBOs).
• Develop IEC materials in Urdu and Punjabi.

D. Monitoring, Compliance & Audits

• Conduct safeguarding compliance audits across project sites.
• Maintain incident logs, risk registers, and audit trails.
• Ensure alignment with donor safeguarding frameworks (e.g., DFID/FCDO, UNICEF, EU).

Key Deliverables

• Safeguarding Risk Assessment Reports (quarterly)
• Incident & Case Management Reports
• Training completion reports (100% staff coverage target)
• Safeguarding compliance audit reports

KPIs

• % of staff trained on safeguarding (target: 100%)
• Response time to reported cases (<72 hours)
• Functionality of complaint mechanisms (all sites operational)

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s in social work, Law, Psychology, or Human Rights
• 4–6 years of safeguarding/child protection experience

Core Skills

• Safeguarding systems design and implementation
• Child protection case management and referral pathways
• Risk assessment and mitigation planning
• Knowledge of Punjab child protection laws and frameworks
• Incident documentation and confidential reporting

Soft Skills

• High ethical standards and integrity
• Empathy and survivor-centered communication
• Crisis handling and decision-making
• Facilitation and training delivery
• Cultural sensitivity and community engagement

AI & Computer Skills

• MS Office (advanced documentation and reporting)
• Case management databases (e.g., Kobo, CommCare, DHIS2 – basic familiarity)
• Data protection and secure digital record keeping
• Basic AI tools for report drafting, risk analysis, and training material development

Use of digital complaint/reporting systems