Lekhan Kala
Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) Policy
Effective Date: July 2026
Review Date: Every two years.
Approved by: Board of Directors, LekhanKala.org
1. Purpose
At LekhanKala.org, we are dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive setting where children, young people, volunteers, staff, board members, consultants, partners, and community members all feel appreciated and respected.
This Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) Policy sets a clear, steady stance of zero tolerance for all forms of sexual exploitation and abuse.
It defines standards of conduct for everyone representing LekhanKala.org and outlines the steps we take to prevent, report, and address any concerns.
2. Scope
This policy applies to:
* Board members
* Volunteers
* Future employees
* Consultants
* Interns
* Contractors
* Trainers and facilitators
* Partner organizations
* Visitors
* Anyone acting on behalf of LekhanKala.org
The policy applies during:
* Office activities
* School programs
* Community events
* Workshops
* Training sessions
* Online meetings
* Digital communications
* Travel
* Any activity representing LekhanKala.org
3. Policy Statement
LekhanKala.org has zero tolerance for:
* Sexual exploitation
* Sexual abuse
* Sexual harassment
* Grooming
* Child sexual abuse
* Abuse of power for sexual purposes
* Exchange of money, gifts, employment, education, or services for sexual activity
* Any conduct that exploits the vulnerability of another person
We promise to treat every concern with the utmost seriousness, responding promptly, confidentially, and fairly to all involved.
4. Guiding Principles
LekhanKala.org is guided by the following principles:
* Best interests of the child
* Respect for dignity and human rights
* Do No Harm
* Survivor-centered approach
* Accountability
* Confidentiality
* Non-discrimination
* Gender equality
* Child participation
* Transparency
5. Definitions
Sexual Exploitation
Any actual or attempted abuse of a position of vulnerability, trust, or power for sexual purposes, including profiting socially, politically, or financially from another person’s sexual exploitation.
Sexual Abuse
Actual or threatened physical intrusion of a sexual nature, whether by force or under unequal or coercive conditions.
Child
Any person under the age of 18 years.
Survivor
A person who has experienced sexual exploitation or abuse.
6. Standards of Conduct
Everyone representing LekhanKala.org must:
* Treat all children and adults with dignity and respect.
* Maintain professional boundaries at all times.
* Obtain informed consent before taking photographs or recordings.
* Honor privacy and confidentiality.
* Immediately report suspected exploitation or abuse.
* Promote safe and open environments.
Representatives must never:
* Engage in sexual activity with anyone under 18 years of age, regardless of local laws or consent.
* Exchange money, gifts, employment, educational opportunities, or assistance for sexual favors.
* Engage in sexual relationships that involve abuse of power or unequal relationships with program participants.
* Use inappropriate language, jokes, gestures, or behavior of a sexual nature.
* Share sexually explicit material.
* Groom children or vulnerable adults online or offline.
* Retaliate against anyone making a report in good faith.
7. Responsibilities
Board of Directors
* Approve and oversee implementation of this policy, and hold the organization accountable for compliance.
* Ensure accountability.
* Assign resources for safeguarding.
Executive Director
* Ensure implementation across all programs.
* Promote a safeguarding culture.
* Ensure reports are handled appropriately and that follow-up action is taken where required.
* Ensure training is conducted.
Volunteers, Staff, and Representatives
* Read and comply with this policy.
* Complete safeguarding training where required.
* Report concerns immediately.
* Cooperate with investigations.
8. Safe Recruitment
LekhanKala.org will:
* Verify identities where appropriate.
* Conduct reference checks when feasible.
* Require agreement to safeguarding and PSEA policies.
* Provide safeguarding orientation before program involvement.
9. Training and Awareness
LekhanKala.org will:
* Provide PSEA orientation for board members, volunteers, and future staff.
* Promote awareness among children, parents, schools, and communities.
* Display reporting information during activities where appropriate.
* Frequently review safeguarding practices.
10. Reporting Systems
Anyone may report concerns through:
Email: info@lekhankala.org
Reports may be made by:
* Children
* Parents
* Teachers
* Volunteers
* Staff
* Community members
* Partner organizations
Reports may be anonymous where permitted by law.
No individual will face retaliation for reporting concerns in good faith, and all reports will be appropriately followed up.
11. Reaction Procedures
Upon receiving a report, LekhanKala.org will:
1. Ensure the immediate safety of the affected person.
2. Maintain confidentiality.
3. Record the concern securely.
4. Assess urgent risks.
5. Refer survivors to appropriate support services where available.
6. Conduct or facilitate an impartial investigation, as appropriate.
7. Take disciplinary action where allegations are confirmed.
8. Notify relevant authorities when legally required.
12. Survivor-Centered Approach
LekhanKala.org will:
* Focus on the survivor’s safety.
* Respect dignity and privacy.
* Seek informed consent whenever appropriate.
* Avoid causing further harm.
* Support referrals to medical, psychosocial, legal, and protection services where available.
13. Confidentiality
Information related to reports will only be shared with individuals who have a legitimate need to know.
All records will be stored securely.
14. Disciplinary Measures
Violations of this policy may result in:
* Removal from volunteer duties
* Termination of employment or contracts
* Removal from the Board where applicable
* Referral to law enforcement
* Reporting to donors or partner organizations where required
15. Partnerships
LekhanKala.org expects all partners, consultants, and contractors to uphold safeguarding and PSEA standards equivalent to this policy.
16. Monitoring and Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or earlier if:
* Legislation changes
* Significant incidents occur
* International standards are updated.
* Company requirements evolve
17. Commitment
At LekhanKala.org, we strive to nurture a culture where all children, young people, volunteers, educators, and community member is honored, protected from harm, and encouraged to speak up without hesitation.
Safeguarding is a shared responsibility, and we are committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and child protection in everything we do.
Approved by:
Board of Directors, LekhanKala.org
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