Welnote Safeguarding Policy

Blue Commons Inc. is committed to creating and supporting healthcare programs that respect the dignity, safety, and wellbeing of every person involved.

We recognize that Welnote may be used in healthcare programs serving women, children, families, and other vulnerable populations, including those living in low-resource and humanitarian settings.

We have zero tolerance for abuse, exploitation, harassment, neglect, discrimination, or any conduct that may place individuals at risk of harm.

Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility.

This policy applies to:

• Blue Commons personnel;
• volunteers and advisors working with Welnote;
• healthcare professionals using Welnote;
• field workers using Welnote;
• program supervisors;
• participating organizations; and
• other individuals acting on behalf of a Welnote-supported program.

This policy applies whether interactions occur in person, remotely, or through the Welnote platform.

We are committed to:

• treating all individuals with dignity and respect;
• protecting children and vulnerable adults from harm;
• maintaining appropriate professional boundaries;
• protecting privacy and confidentiality;
• promoting safe and inclusive participation;
• responding appropriately to safeguarding concerns; and
• taking concerns seriously regardless of who reports them.

The following conduct is prohibited:

• physical abuse;
• emotional or psychological abuse;
• sexual abuse or exploitation;
• harassment or intimidation;
• discrimination based on gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, or other protected characteristics;
• coercion or abuse of authority;
• exploitation of patients, families, or community members;
• unauthorized disclosure of confidential information; and
• retaliation against a person who raises a safeguarding concern.

Any individual who becomes aware of such conduct should report it promptly.

Additional care should be taken when working with:

• children;
• pregnant women;
• individuals with disabilities;
• elderly individuals;
• displaced persons;
• individuals affected by conflict or crisis; and
• others who may be particularly vulnerable to harm or exploitation.

The welfare and safety of these individuals should always take priority.

Anyone who becomes aware of a safeguarding concern is encouraged to report it as soon as possible.

Reports may include concerns involving:

• abuse;
• exploitation;
• harassment;
• inappropriate conduct;
• threats to safety; or
• suspected violations of this policy.

Reports may be submitted to:

Email: info@welnote.org

Blue Commons will review reported concerns and take reasonable steps to investigate, respond, or escalate issues as appropriate.

If an individual is believed to be at immediate risk of serious harm, users should contact appropriate local emergency, medical, protection, or law enforcement services before relying on Welnote reporting channels.

Safeguarding concerns will be handled with appropriate sensitivity and confidentiality.

Information will be shared only with those who reasonably need access in order to assess, investigate, respond to, or address the concern.

No individual should suffer retaliation for raising a safeguarding concern in good faith.

Blue Commons encourages the reporting of concerns, even when the facts are uncertain or incomplete.

This policy may be updated periodically to reflect changes in Welnote operations, program activities, or safeguarding best practices.