‘Safeguarding is part of an ethical approach to communications, in particular, when working with people and want to portray their involvement in the research process or how the topic researched affects their lives. It is about having respect for the individuals and the communities that you work with, making sure you portray their lives and their perspectives honestly, and in ways that would be acceptable to them.’
Child safeguarding in communications ensures that all interactions involving children in media, projects or research are designed to protect their dignity, privacy and wellbeing. This approach recognises the potential risks children may face from exposure and addresses these risks with prevention and mitigation measures. By following clear safeguarding procedures, organisations can prevent harm and ensure that the children they feature in their communications are treated with respect and care.
Some key practices include obtaining informed consent from parents or caregivers and assent from children and avoiding any portrayal that could put them at risk or expose them to harm. Safeguarding protocols, such as staff training, a two-adult rule and clear codes of conduct must be in place to protect children and respond appropriately to any concerns. Involving children in decisions about how their images and stories are used is also essential for their safety and dignity.
Explore some resources developed by KCS and other organisations on this topic:
- A video on child safeguarding in communications at the InterAmerican Children’s Institute
- A microlearning on safeguarding children in communications developed by KCS
- Information Commissioner’s Office UK – Children’s code: best interests framework
International Child Safeguarding Week is a global online campaign hosted by Keeping Children Safe, from 21-25 October 2024, to emphasise that safeguarding children from exploitation and abuse is everyone’s responsibility. It offers daily resources and insights on different child safeguarding themes, all available on the KCS website.