KOLPING INTERNATIONAL is actively committed to protecting people from violence, abuse and exploitation. As part of our self-image and responsibility, we create safe spaces where dignity and integrity are respected. With a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of abuse, we aim to empower vulnerable people and protect their rights.
Our guidelines and measures
For us, safeguarding encompasses both protection against sexual violence and exploitation as well as protection of children. Safeguarding represents our organisation’s responsibility to ensure that our employees, programmes and projects do not harm children and vulnerable adults or expose them to the risk of harm and abuse. This also includes violence by employees towards other employees.
Safeguarding encompasses all processes and measures that contribute to creating a safe environment for vulnerable people. Anyone can be vulnerable in certain situations. Some groups are particularly affected by violence: children, women (who have experienced violence), people with disabilities, LGBTIQA+ people and people who have experienced racism. We are committed to taking preventive action and intervening consistently in the event of suspicion. The complete Safeguarding Guidelines can be downloaded here.
Contact persons and reporting channels
We have established processes for how we act when violence is reported to us. It is important to note that anyone can contact the designated contact persons. Experiences, observations and questions about violence (or experiences of violence) can be discussed and will be treated immediately and confidentially.
Our safeguarding officers are available as trusted contacts if you have any questions or in the event of suspicion. You can contact us directly or use our reporting form to report incidents anonymously or personally.
Together, we are creating a culture of mindfulness, respect and awareness – for a safe working environment at KOLPING INTERNATIONAL.
Points of contact:
Safeguarding officer at KOLPING INTERNATIONAL
Sigrid Stapel
safeguarding@kolping.net
Tel. +49 (0)221-77880-28
External point of trust for safeguarding
for cases in which persons at management and executive level and/or the Safeguarding Competence Team are involved, or if you have the impression that suspected cases are not being investigated or are being investigated inadequately:
Advice Centre ‘Leuchtzeichen’
leuchtzeichen@um-steuern.org
