JoMoni
Child Protection Policy

1. Purpose

This document outlines the principles of the Joensuu District Multicultural Association (JoMoni) for protecting children. The goal is to ensure that the association’s staff, events, and services support the rights, safety, and well-being of children and youth.

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2. Legal and Ethical Framework

This policy is based on Finnish legislation, the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, and European Union guidelines. The best interest of the child is the primary consideration in all actions. Every child has the right to be heard, seen, and to participate in matters concerning them.

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3. Definition of a Child

A child is defined as anyone under the age of 18.

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4. Risks and Operational Environment

JoMoni operates in a variety of settings, including public events, trainings, small groups, and excursions. These environments may involve specific risks:

· Physical or psychological violence (e.g. coercion, threats, pushing)

· Sexual harassment or abuse

· Discrimination or bullying based on background or other characteristics

· Violation of privacy (e.g. unauthorized photography)

· Unsupervised or inappropriate contact between adults and children

4.1 Preventive Measures

· Training on the child protection policy before starting work with children

· Clear division of responsibilities at events and appointment of a safety officer

· Consistent rules (e.g. clear boundaries on physical contact, child participation)

· Communication guidelines: only open, supervised channels between adults and children

· Safer space principles: creating a discrimination-free, secure atmosphere

4.2 Clear Procedures

Written guidelines on how to act in different situations are always available for those working with children. Operational procedures must be written, concrete, predictable, and shared with all. For example:

· “Children may not be photographed without written permission from their guardian.”

· Uniform photography restrictions at events

· Advance communication of practices to children and guardians

Everyone is encouraged to report immediately if they observe inappropriate or concerning behaviour. Staff will address the situation confidentially and, if necessary, refer the case to social services or the police.

The goal is that all adults know how to act to protect children.

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5. Unacceptable Behaviour

The following behaviour is strictly prohibited: violence, abuse, neglect, harassment, discrimination, bullying, or violation of privacy.

An adult must not engage in physical or emotional contact with a child that is inappropriate, exceeds professional boundaries, or causes the child to feel unsafe.

5.1 Reporting Concerns or Misconduct

Everyone has a duty to report any concern for a child’s safety. Reports should be made to the child protection officer either in writing or verbally as soon as possible. The identity of the reporter will be handled confidentially. In urgent cases, contact child welfare authorities or the police directly.

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6. Safe Recruitment

Those working with children are required to present a valid criminal record extract. Suitability for the role and work with children is also assessed during recruitment.

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7. Data Protection and Privacy

Children’s personal data is handled confidentially and in compliance with the GDPR. Publishing images or videos of children requires written consent from a guardian. Social media use is ethically planned with risks taken into account.

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8. Staff Training

Everyone working with children is required to participate in training on child protection and the principles of a safer environment. Training is updated regularly.

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9. Review of the Policy

This policy is reviewed at least every two years or as needed. The board and the designated child protection officer are responsible for updates. The latest version of JoMoni’s child protection policy is always available on the association’s https://www.jomoni.fi/en/lastensuojelupolitiikka

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11. Approval 

This policy has been approved and signed by the JoMoni Board. 

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Lastensuojelupolitiikan yhteyshenkilö/Child Protection Contact: 
Suvi Kaskela   
suvi.kaskela@jomoni.fi   
+358 44 757 7682