Ensuring safety and dignity for everyone is not just a responsibility but a moral imperative. Caritas India, in collaboration with Catholic Relief Services (CRS), took a proactive step in reinforcing its safeguarding measures through a joint safeguarding monitoring and evaluation visit to the Gram Nirman Urban program site at Harsh Vihar, within the Ashoknagar project area in Northeast Delhi. The visit focused on assessing the effectiveness of safeguarding policies, ensuring safe spaces for program participants, and reinforcing community engagement in safeguarding practices.

The visit included interactions with diverse stakeholders, such as program volunteers, beneficiaries, peer counselors, and members from Aman Mahila Samhu and Ekta Mahila Samhu. Discussions centered around safeguarding awareness, reporting mechanisms, and risk mitigation strategies to ensure that beneficiaries, especially individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS, feel secure and supported. The immediate focus was on addressing and mitigating any risks to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals.

Caritas India’s Gram Nirman Programme is dedicated to empowering marginalized communities, particularly those affected by HIV/AIDS, by creating an inclusive and stigma-free environment. By incorporating safeguarding principles into program implementation, Caritas India aims to uphold the dignity, well-being, and rights of all individuals it serves.

A key objective of the visit was to evaluate the community’s understanding of safeguarding processes and assess their ability to report concerns safely. The first dialogue was aimed at understanding the level of knowledge participants had gained through community sharing. A total of 16 participants were present during the evaluation. The monitoring exercise allowed open dialogue, enabling participants to share experiences, provide feedback, and voice any safeguarding-related concerns. Mr. Rani (name changed), one of the program participants, expressed that she is aware of the available reporting channels but does not need to use them, as she has not encountered concerns related to staff behavior. This response shows the community’s awareness of safeguarding mechanisms and highlights the importance of continued sensitization efforts.

Additionally, Deepchand, a person with disabilities (PWD), spoke about the Delhi State Legal Services Authority (DSLSA), which is a part of DSACS and provides free legal aid, including consultations and advice to victims of crimes, particularly women and children, offering them legal support and counseling. He also shared insights on the HIV/AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act, 2017, a law in India designed to protect the rights of individuals living with HIV/AIDS and combat stigma and discrimination against them.

Regular safeguarding assessments are instrumental in identifying potential risks, strengthening protective measures, and enhancing accountability within development programs. Caritas India remains committed to ensuring that safeguarding is not just a policy but an integral part of sustainable development efforts.

Caritas India reaffirms its dedication to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for its beneficiaries, partners, and staff through continuous monitoring, community engagement, and strong partnerships.