The first few steps provide a brief orientation to the content, introduce the types of learning and activities, reflect on what you already know, and on things to consider as you engage with other learners on this course.

You will learn about the importance of staying safe, how you can help look after your own wellbeing and the wellbeing of others on this course and to help each other make the most of this learning experience.

A chance to reflect on your reasons for being on the course, connect with other learners and develop a community of practice. It introduces safeguarding, what it means to you and to the wider international development sector.

How standards for behaviour have been set by the United Nations way back in 2003 when it developed the first Code of Conduct in preventing and responding to SEA perpetuated by its own staff.

Safeguarding is an organisational risk and therefore measures are required across all organisational activity where there is direct or indirect contact with people.

The misuse of power is central to safeguarding, therefore it is important to understand what power is and how it can be misused.

There are various forms of harm that can occur, and there are many indicators of these forms of harm.

What does it mean for children and vulnerable people to 'feel safe'?

A collection of short scenarios to consider in relation to harm.

It is essential to be able to identify safeguarding risks and understand how to develop a risk assessment to support you in putting in place safeguarding measures to mitigate against those risks.

It is very important to consider how staff are recruited and selected in the first place.

There is an expectation that all staff will adhere to certain standards of behaviour. These standards should be laid down in every organisation’s Code of Conduct.

How prevention can be further strengthened through working with your organisation’s beneficiaries, service users and their communities.

What the common barriers to reporting safeguarding concerns are and how to overcome some of them.

How to provide safe and confidential reporting mechanisms.

How to develop or improve a CRM to receive safeguarding concerns.

How to respond to safeguarding concerns that are raised or reported.

For a child, vulnerable adult or staff member to disclose that they do not feel safe is usually very difficult for them and so it is vital we respond in the right way.

It is important to understand the laws of your work location in relation to dealing with sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment (SEAH) so that you’re better prepared to deal with these.

How to identify, track, refer and follow up safeguarding concerns after they are disclosed and reported.

It’s important that your organisational safeguarding policy and procedures describe what next steps should be taken by organisations.

Some people are hesitant to come forward to report their concerns for various reasons.

What are the next steps to be taken by the organisation once a complaint is received?

How to learn from safeguarding concerns and implement policies and procedures.

Why it is so important to build knowledge, awareness and capacity within the organisation with regards to safeguarding?

Organisational culture plays a crucial role in shaping and influencing behaviour in an organisation.

How to reflect on your current organisational policies and procedures to ensure they are fit for purpose.

You have learned some of the basics you need to think about when trying to improve safeguarding within your own organisation or professional practice.