Child Protection Policy

1. Introduction and Organizational Commitment

The Non-Profit Association “Momentum Lab” (hereinafter referred to as the Association), operating for public benefit, places the safety, well-being, and rights of children and youth at the core of its activities. Our mission encompasses youth empowerment, personal potential development through non-formal education, and support for vulnerable groups, including children and youth with disabilities. We recognize that in organizing events, courses, youth mobilities, and digital literacy activities, we bear the responsibility to provide a completely safe environment.

This Child Protection Policy is developed in accordance with Bulgarian legislation (Child Protection Act) and the international standards of the European Commission and Keeping Children Safe (KCS). It declares our zero-tolerance approach to any form of violence, exploitation, abuse, or neglect of children.

2. Scope and Applicability

This policy is mandatory for all individuals associated with “Momentum Lab,” regardless of their position or form of engagement. This includes:

  • Members of the Managing Board, including the Chairperson;
  • All staff members (under employment or civil contracts);
  • Volunteers, interns, and mentors participating in youth initiatives;
  • External experts, lecturers, consultants, and representatives of partner organizations when participating in activities organized by the Association;
  • Service providers who have direct contact with children during Association events.

The policy applies to all physical and virtual spaces where “Momentum Lab” operates (including civic laboratories, social incubators, online platforms for digital literacy, and social media).

3. Guiding Principles (Standard 1: Policy)

Association “Momentum Lab” is guided by the following fundamental principles:

  • The Best Interest of the Child: Every decision and action affecting a child is taken ensuring their best interest.
  • Equal Rights and Non-Discrimination: Every child, regardless of their gender, race, ethnicity, religion, disability, or social status, has the right to protection and respect. Special attention is paid to the needs of children from vulnerable communities and those with disabilities.
  • Shared Responsibility: Safeguarding children is the responsibility of every team member. Everyone is obliged to recognize risks and respond to the slightest suspicion of danger.
  • Right to Participation: Children are encouraged to express their opinions and actively participate in decision-making regarding activities that affect them, in a safe and supportive environment.

4. Safe Recruitment and Staff Training (Standard 2: People)

To ensure that people working with children are suitable for this role, the Association implements strict procedures for recruitment and human resources management:

  • Recruitment: All candidates for employment or volunteering go through an interview process where their attitudes toward working with children are assessed. References from previous employers and a mandatory criminal record certificate are required for individuals who will have direct contact with minors.
  • Code of Conduct: Every employee and volunteer signs a Declaration stating that they are familiar with the Child Protection Policy and accept the Association’s Code of Conduct. The Code strictly prohibits inappropriate physical, verbal, or online communication with children.
  • Training: The Association organizes mandatory introductory and periodic advanced training for the entire team. Topics include: recognizing signs of abuse, safe online communication (protection against disinformation and cyberbullying), and incident reporting procedures.

5. Prevention, Risk Assessment, and Response Mechanisms (Standard 3: Procedures)

5.1. Risk Assessment

Prior to any event (e.g., youth exchange, digital literacy training, festival), the “Momentum Lab” team conducts a written risk assessment. Potential hazards to children’s safety are identified, and specific measures to minimize them are planned.

5.2. Safe Digital Environment

Given the organization’s focus on combating disinformation and creating digital content, we implement strict rules for online safety. Publishing photos and videos of children without the explicit written consent of their parents/guardians is strictly prohibited. Communication with minors is conducted solely through the Association’s official channels.

5.3. Reporting Mechanism

The Association designates a Child Safeguarding Officer. Any suspicion of abuse, bullying (including peer-to-peer), or a breach of the Code of Conduct must be reported immediately to this Officer. The mechanism is clear, accessible, and guarantees confidentiality.

Steps upon receiving a report:

  1. Receiving the report and listening to the child without judgment and with full trust.
  2. Immediately informing the Child Safeguarding Officer and the Chairperson of the Managing Board.
  3. If there is an established risk to the health and life of the child – immediate notification of the competent state authorities (State Agency for Child Protection, Social Assistance Directorate, Ministry of Interior at 112).
  4. Providing psychological and emotional support to the affected child. The Association does not conduct independent investigations but cooperates with the authorities.

6. Monitoring and Accountability (Standard 4: Accountability)

“Momentum Lab” is committed to maintaining a high level of accountability and transparency regarding child protection.

  • Policy Review: The policy and associated procedures are reviewed and updated once a year, as well as after any registered incident or upon changes in national legislation.
  • Incident Register: A strict, confidential register of all reports, complaints, and measures taken is maintained. Access to it is restricted to the Managing Board and the Child Safeguarding Officer.
  • Transparency towards Partners: The Association reports on the implementation of safeguarding measures to its donors (including EU programs) and partners in accordance with the requirements of the financing contracts.