Safeguarding and governance

Responsibility and oversight

The board of Dutch Aid Foundation collectively holds ultimate responsibility for good governance and safeguarding within the foundation.

DAF does not currently publish the personal details of individual board members. The board remains collectively responsible for oversight, decisions, follow-up, and annual review of this approach.

Confidential reporting

Anyone can make a confidential report involving exploitation, abuse, harassment, discrimination, fraud, or a risk to someone’s safety. Emailinfo@dutch-aid.nland put “Confidential safeguarding concern” in the subject line. You can also use the other channels in our complaints procedure.

Response and safety

DAF acknowledges receipt within five working days. When a final resolution takes longer, the reporter receives appropriate progress updates.

An immediate safety risk takes priority. DAF contacts the appropriate local emergency service, competent public authority, or other specialist body where necessary.

The safety and wishes of affected people guide the response, insofar as this is compatible with legal duties and the protection of others.

Independence and conflicts of interest

Access is restricted to uninvolved board members who need the information. A board member who is involved in, or is the subject of, a report withdraws from its assessment and related decisions.

Confidentiality and protection

DAF handles reports as confidentially as reasonably possible. Information is shared only where needed to assess the report safely and carefully, where disclosure is required by law, or where necessary to protect someone from harm.

DAF does not tolerate retaliation against anyone who makes a report in good faith or assists an assessment.

Retention, learning, and review

Safeguarding and integrity records are kept for five years after closure or the last substantive contact, whichever is later. Access remains restricted. At least annually, the board reviews reports, follow-up, and this approach without including personal data in public reporting.