Safeguarding Officer

The Safeguarding Officer will work closely with the Safeguarding Lead to ensure the effective implementation of READ Foundation’s Safeguarding Policy across all offices, schools, projects, and field operations. This role involves coordinating prevention, reporting, and support activities aimed at protecting children, vulnerable adults, staff, and communities from harm. The officer will play a critical role in promoting a safe environment by facilitating training, managing reporting channels, and supporting affected individuals through appropriate referrals and follow-up actions.

Key Responsibilities

- Support the implementation of safeguarding policies by assessing risks and ensuring preventive and corrective measures are taken.
- Conduct safeguarding training and awareness sessions for staff, teachers, volunteers, and other relevant stakeholders to enhance understanding and compliance.
- Promote and maintain accessible reporting channels for children, parents, staff, and community members to report concerns safely and confidentially.
- Receive, document, and promptly refer safeguarding concerns through established reporting procedures.
- Coordinate support and referrals for individuals affected by safeguarding issues under the guidance of the Safeguarding Lead.
- Maintain confidential case records, monitor response timelines, and assist authorized investigation committees as required.
- Conduct field visits and liaise with safeguarding focal persons, program teams, and relevant service providers to ensure effective safeguarding practices.
- Prepare progress reports on safeguarding activities and recommend improvements to enhance policy implementation and protection measures.

Required Qualifications

- Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, Psychology, Social Work, Development Studies, or a related field.
- Minimum of two years’ experience in safeguarding, child protection, prevention of gender-based violence, or community development.
- Strong knowledge of safeguarding principles, child protection, confidentiality, and support approaches that prioritize the safety and dignity of affected individuals.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to conduct training, coordinate activities, and produce clear, concise reports.
- Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive issues professionally, with integrity and impartiality.
- Sound judgment, risk assessment capabilities, and problem-solving skills.
- Willingness and ability to travel to schools and project locations as required.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits

Experience working within the NGO or development sector is preferred, providing familiarity with the operational context and challenges related to safeguarding in such environments.

The position is based at the Head Office in Islamabad and reports directly to the Safeguarding Lead. The monthly salary for this role is PKR 80,000.

READ Foundation is committed to preventing abuse, exploitation, harassment, and all forms of harm. The successful candidate will be required to comply fully with the organization’s Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct. Appointment is contingent upon satisfactory references and relevant background checks. Applications are encouraged from qualified candidates of all backgrounds who share a commitment to safeguarding and protection.