Sexual Exploitation and Abuse Policy

WOLAS is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all of its staff, volunteers, and third parties. Sexual exploitation and abuse are a serious violation of human rights, and WOLAS has a zero-tolerance policy for such behaviour.

WOLAS defines sexual exploitation and abuse as:

• Any sexual activity or other behaviour of a sexual nature that occurs without the explicit consent of the person involved, or that is obtained through the use of coercion, force, or threat.
• Any exchange of any goods, services, or favours for sexual favours.
• Any use of a position of power or authority to coerce or exploit someone for sexual purposes.

WOLAS has a number of policies and procedures in place to prevent sexual exploitation and abuse, including:

• Comprehensive training: WOLAS provides comprehensive training to all staff, volunteers, and third parties on sexual exploitation and abuse. In order to create a culture of respect/trust and empower staff, volunteers and third parties to report suspected abuse, this training covers the definition of sexual exploitation and abuse, the signs and symptoms of sexual exploitation and abuse, and how to report sexual exploitation and abuse.
• Confidential reporting mechanism: WOLAS has a confidential reporting mechanism for victims of sexual exploitation and abuse. This mechanism allows victims to report sexual exploitation and abuse without fear of retaliation.
• Thorough investigation: WOLAS thoroughly investigates all allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse. These investigations are conducted by a neutral third party.
• Appropriate disciplinary action: WOLAS takes appropriate disciplinary action against perpetrators of sexual exploitation and abuse. This disciplinary action may include termination of employment, suspension, or demotion.
• Support for victims: WOLAS provides support to victims of sexual exploitation and abuse. This support may include counselling, medical care, or financial assistance.

WOLAS encourages all staff, volunteers, and third parties to report any suspected instances of sexual exploitation and abuse to the organisation’s the General Secretary, or to a Board Member. WOLAS will take all allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse seriously and will investigate them promptly and thoroughly.

WOLAS is committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for everyone. By having a clear and comprehensive policy on sexual exploitation and abuse, WOLAS can help to prevent this harmful behaviour from occurring.