Preventing Sexual Exploitation and Abuse Complaint Submission

I. Introduction

Respect for the dignity and human rights of all people is fundamental to the work of Global Aid Network (“GAiN”) and everybody who represents GAiN is expected to reflect these values in their professional conduct, regardless of who they are dealing with or where they are working.

GAiN seeks to provide a safe, supportive and secure environment to report cases of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse. GAiN will take all concerns seriously, treat them confidentially and respond promptly.

GAiN staff and volunteers must immediately report any concerns, suspicions or allegations of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse or breach of the GAiN PSEA policy. The form below provides the opportunity to report such breaches in a secure and confidential manner.

II. Who will your complaint go to?

GAiN WW Global Mentors, Dennis and Janet Fierbach have been given the responsibility to receive and act upon complaints of breaches of the PSEA policy. They will conduct the investigations in conjunction with appropriate leadership.

Dennis and Janet Fierbach have been on Power to Change Canada staff for 42 years and have been involved in and given leadership to various ministries in Canada and Internationally.  Dennis has been with GAiN Canada since 2008, and Janet transitioned to GAiN World Wide in September 2018. Throughout their ministry years they have gained significant experience in leading teams and dealing with personnel issues. In their role as Global Mentors, they come alongside GAiN Resource Offices to help them grow and mature.

III. The Process

1. The complaint will be received in a respectful and open manner, formally acknowledged in writing as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours, and a channel of communication with the complainant will be established.
2. A decision on further course of action will be made as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours, of receiving a serious complaint.
3. Assessment of safety risks to all involved – victim, complainant, subject of complaint (SOC) – will be completed as soon as possible.
4. Medical, psycho-social and safety support will be provided if deemed necessary to the victim, witness and SOC.
5. The victim, witness and the SOC may be removed to a neutral location if necessary.
6. Information will be held in strict confidentiality and shared on a ‘need to know’ basis only.
7. A safe, confidential space will be provided for all Investigation planning and interviews.
8. The investigation team will liaise with other organizations and local authorities as necessary.
9. The investigation team will keep detailed records of interview testimony and relevant evidence.
10. A final communication will be given to the complainant and to the subject of complaint.
11. A decision to accept the findings of the final report or seek additional information will be taken by the GAiN leadership.
12. Actions following the investigation will be the responsibility of the leadership of the GAiN office and other organizations involved.

IV. Sexual Exploitation and Abuse Complaints Referral Form