Child Protection Policy of the BlueLink Foundation

1. Introduction

BlueLink Foundation’s strategy is built on a partnership approach that connects complementary actors whose work can impact children at risk. Through this, BlueLink contributes to integrated child protection systems aligned with European and international standards.

2. Our child protection values

A child rights and participatory approach

BlueLink’s work is grounded in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). Children are recognized as individuals with the right and ability to participate in decisions affecting them, including their own protection.

Participation, protection, and provision are interdependent: protection requires participation, participation requires provision, and provision enables protection.

Embedded in our culture

Child protection is part of BlueLink’s organizational culture and informs all partnerships, funding relationships, and programme design.

A duty that applies to all

Safeguarding is the responsibility of all staff, partners, and individuals involved in BlueLink’s activities, whether working directly or indirectly with children.

3. Guiding Policy Principles

Principle 1: Zero tolerance

BlueLink applies zero tolerance to violence, abuse, exploitation, and neglect. Violations may result in criminal, civil, or disciplinary action.

Principle 2: Best interests of the child

All actions concerning children must prioritize their best interests.

Principle 3: Participation

Children should be involved in decisions affecting them through consultations, feedback mechanisms, and leadership opportunities where appropriate.

Additional principles

• The child’s welfare is always a priority.
• Every child is treated with dignity and respect.
• Protection applies to all children regardless of background.
• All concerns are taken seriously and addressed promptly.
• Safeguarding is a shared responsibility.
• Families are recognized as primary caregivers.
• Children have the right to participate in their protection.

4. Definitions

Child: Any individual under 18 years.

Vulnerable adult: A person 18+ requiring support and potentially unable to safeguard themselves.

Child protection: Preventing and responding to violence, abuse, exploitation, and harmful practices.

Child safeguarding: Preventive actions to reduce risks linked to BlueLink activities.

Direct contact: Physical or online interaction with children.

Indirect contact: Access to children’s data or work impacting them.

Abuse: Defined in Appendix 1.

5. Scope and need

This policy applies to all staff, board members, volunteers, partners, consultants, and participants involved in BlueLink activities. It ensures child-safe operations and addresses heightened vulnerabilities.

6. BlueLink’s Child Protection Policy

Recruitment

• Criminal clearance (max. 6 months old) required.
• Minimum two references, including safeguarding questions.
• Mandatory policy commitment and code of conduct signing.
• Non-disclosure of convictions leads to disqualification.

Training

• Mandatory policy reading during onboarding.
• Safeguarding training within first year and every two years thereafter.

Code of Conduct

• Respect, dignity, and equality for all children.
• Use appropriate communication and behavior.
• Ensure safe environments (physical and online).
• Encourage participation and feedback.
• Report all concerns using formal procedures.
• Avoid situations of risk (e.g. being alone with a child).
• No physical or emotional harm permitted.

Safeguarding management

A designated Safeguarding Officer oversees implementation, training, and support. The Board and Secretariat ensure accountability.

Media use

• Written consent required from children and caregivers.
• No personal data disclosure.
• Respect dignity and avoid harmful representation.
• Secure storage of media files.

External partners

• Must comply with BlueLink standards.
• Required to have safeguarding policies.
• No unsupervised contact with children.

7. Implementing child safeguarding

Reporting

All concerns must be reported to the Safeguarding Officer. Immediate danger requires contacting emergency services.

Internal procedures

• Confidentiality on a need-to-know basis.
• Information sharing when necessary for protection.
• Consent sought where possible.

Responding to disclosures

• Create a safe, non-judgmental space.
• Listen without interruption.
• Do not promise confidentiality.
• Report immediately.

Documentation

• Record all details thoroughly.
• Complete Incident Reporting Form.

Investigations

Led by Executive Director and Board, with due process and right of appeal.

Allegations against staff

Immediate suspension during investigation. Authorities may be notified.

Anonymous reporting

Anonymous reports are accepted.

8. Safeguarding practices

Informed consent

• Required from child and caregiver.
• Minimum 48-hour consideration period.
• Clear explanation of participation and rights.

Risk assessment

• Assess context, risks, and mitigation measures.
• Balance risks vs. benefits of participation.

Health and safety

• First aid availability required.
• Insurance proof from partners.

Data protection

• Secure storage of all child-related data.
• Access limited and controlled.
• Retention follows legal requirements.

9. Key safeguarding contacts

Designated Safeguarding Contact:
Zoya Borisova, Head of Administration
+359 8888 16830
office [at] bluelink [dot] net

Policy review

Reviewed annually by the Board.
Latest review: 01.03.2026

10. Appendices

Appendix 1: Categories of abuse (physical, emotional, sexual, neglect) with indicators.

Appendix 2: Safeguarding Incident Reporting Form.

Appendix 3: Staff Code of Conduct.

Appendix 4: Declaration of compliance and signature.

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