Child protection standards

CHILD PROTECTION STANDARDS at ODONTO Dental Clinic

I. Introduction

All actions taken by ODONTO staff are carried out with the best interests of children and adolescents in mind. Our team treats minors with respect, without using physical or psychological violence or any other form of harm. This document is intended for all employees, parents, guardians, and minors, with the goal of protecting children and ensuring equal and safe access to healthcare services.

II. Glossary of Key Terms

• Minor: Any person under the age of 18 receiving services at the clinic.
• Minor’s guardian: A person legally authorized to represent the child (parent or legal guardian).
• Abuse: Any form of physical, emotional, sexual, or economic violence, as well as neglect, directed toward a minor.
• Minor’s personal data: Any information that could be used to identify a child.

III. Safe Recruitment Practices

• Every job candidate must submit a criminal record statement and obtain a certificate from the sex offender registry.
• Individuals listed in the registry are strictly excluded from employment.
• This applies to all staff, including volunteers and interns.

IV. Safe Interaction with Minors

• Staff must treat minors with respect and patience, acknowledging their needs and dignity.
• Minors have the right to privacy. Any change to confidentiality rules must be clearly explained and justified to the child.
• Violence and inappropriate behavior (e.g. vulgar language, sexual jokes) are strictly prohibited.
• Employees must not engage in sexual relationships with minors or offer them substances or pornographic materials.
• All information about minors is confidential and securely protected.

V. Intervention Procedure in Cases of Suspected Abuse

• Staff must pay attention to warning signs such as physical injuries, signs of neglect, fear, behavioral changes, or signs of abuse.
• Suspicion may be reinforced by concerning behavior from guardians, such as inconsistent explanations, aggression, or neglect.
• If abuse is suspected, the employee must follow the established procedure, reporting the case to the clinic manager and appropriate authorities.

VI. Protection of Personal Data

• All personal data of minors is protected in accordance with the law and may not be shared without the guardian’s consent, except as permitted by law.

VII. Regular Updates of the Standards

• This document is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure the highest standards of child protection.

VIII. Access to the Standards

• These standards are made available to employees, parents, and minors so they can be understood and applied in practice.

ODONTO Dental Clinic is committed to ensuring the safety of minors and promoting their rights in every situation.