Safeguarding

Raise a concern

If you are worried about the safety of a child or anyone connected with our work, or you suspect fraud, corruption or other misconduct, please tell us. You can:

• write to ethics@betterlifeint.org
• write to info@betterlifeint.org or call +256 770 933 286
• use our contact form, which opens with Report a safeguarding concern chosen
• write to us at P.O. Box 410167, Rukungiri, Uganda

Under the policies below, you may report anonymously, identities are protected, and no one who reports a concern will face retaliation.

If someone is in immediate danger, call the police on 999 or 112. In Uganda, 116 is the free national child helpline.

Annex I

Child Safeguarding Policy

1. Purpose

To ensure all children who come into contact with BetterLife International Organization (BIO) are protected from harm, abuse, exploitation, or neglect, and to promote their safety, dignity, and rights.

2. Scope

Applies to all BIO staff, volunteers, consultants, partners, donors, and affiliates in contact with children, directly or indirectly.

3. Principles

• Zero tolerance for abuse, exploitation, or neglect.
• Best interest of the child is paramount.
• Non-discrimination irrespective of gender, disability, or background.
• Participation of children in safe and meaningful ways.

4. Definitions

• Child: Anyone under 18 years.
• Child Abuse: Physical, emotional, sexual harm, neglect, or exploitation.

5. Expected Conduct

1. Avoid being alone with a child in private settings.
2. Do not touch children inappropriately.
3. No exchange of money or gifts for favours.
4. Use appropriate language and behaviour.
5. Take immediate action if a child is at risk.

6. Reporting

• All concerns must be reported within 24 hours to the Safeguarding Focal Point.
• Confidentiality must be maintained, except for child safety.
• Investigations will follow established safeguarding protocols.

7. Implementation

• All personnel sign a child safeguarding declaration.
• Annual training and refresher courses are mandatory.
• Partner organizations must adhere to this policy.

Annex II

Anti-Fraud and Corruption Policy

1. Purpose

To safeguard BetterLife International’s resources and reputation by preventing, detecting, and responding to fraud and corruption in all forms.

2. Definitions

1. Fraud: Deliberate deception for personal or organizational gain.
2. Corruption: Abuse of entrusted power for private gain.
3. Bribery: Offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting anything of value to influence a decision.

3. Prohibited Actions

1. Falsifying records or invoices.
2. Misuse of donor funds.
3. Offering or accepting bribes or kickbacks.
4. Colluding with vendors for inflated pricing.
5. Misrepresentation of credentials.

4. Roles & Responsibilities

1. All staff must report suspicions.
2. Finance & Compliance Unit oversees audits and investigations.
3. Managers must foster transparency and internal control.

5. Prevention Measures

1. Separation of duties in finance and procurement.
2. Regular internal and external audits.
3. Whistleblower protections (see Annex III).
4. Anti-fraud clauses in all contracts.

6. Reporting & Investigation

• Report anonymously or to ethics@betterlifeint.org.
• Investigations are confidential and fair.
• Proven fraud leads to termination and legal action.

Annex III

Whistleblower Protection Policy

1. Purpose

To encourage reporting of misconduct without fear of retaliation and to protect the integrity of the organization.

2. Scope

Covers all reports relating to:

1. Fraud
2. Misconduct
3. Abuse
4. Violations of laws or policies

3. Principles

1. Confidentiality: Identities are protected.
2. Non-retaliation: Any retaliation will result in disciplinary action.
3. Fair process: Accused individuals are given a chance to respond.

4. Reporting Mechanisms

• Internal: Supervisor or HR
• Ethics hotline (confidential)
• Email: ethics@betterlifeint.org

5. Handling Reports

1. Acknowledge within 7 days.
2. Investigations conclude within 30 working days.
3. Actions taken include warnings, dismissal, or referral to law enforcement.

6. Protection Measures

• No demotion, discrimination, or harassment of whistleblowers.
• Support offered through HR and legal aid (if applicable).