Child Protection Policy

Guided by Kenyan law and international standards

Dorothea Rescue Centre is committed to protecting the safety, dignity, and wellbeing of all children under its care. A child is defined as any person below 18 years of age, in line with the Constitution of Kenya and international child protection standards.

This Child Protection Policy guides how the Centre prevents, responds to, and manages all forms of abuse, neglect, and exploitation, to ensure every child lives in a safe and caring environment.

This policy is guided by the following laws and standards. In all cases, the best interest of the child is the highest priority.

  • The Constitution of Kenya (2010)
  • The Children’s Act (2001)
  • The Sexual Offences Act (2006)
  • Other relevant Kenyan legislation
  • The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC)
Zero tolerance for abuse +

Dorothea Rescue Centre believes that every child has the right to protection, care, and equal treatment, regardless of their background. The Centre has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of abuse, including physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, neglect, bullying, and exploitation. Everyone working at the Centre has a responsibility to protect children and promote their wellbeing.

What is expected of staff and volunteers +
  • Treating children with respect at all times
  • Maintaining professional boundaries
  • Ensuring safety in every interaction
  • Immediately reporting any concern of abuse to the Designated Safeguarding Officer

The Designated Safeguarding Officer takes the necessary action on every report, including working with relevant authorities such as the police and the children’s department.

How we keep children safe +

To keep children safe, the Centre follows strict measures such as careful staff recruitment, background checks, training on child protection, secure record keeping, and safe use of media and technology. Children’s privacy and dignity are always protected.

Report a concern

If you have any concern about the safety or wellbeing of a child at Dorothea Rescue Centre, please contact us directly via our Contacts page. Every report is treated seriously and confidentially.