Safety Policy

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Pathways Mentorship Safety Precautions Policy

Purpose:
This Safety Precautions Policy aims to outline the measures and guidelines that ensure a safe and secure environment for all participants in the Pathways Mentorship program. We are committed to providing mentees, mentors, and staff with a positive, supportive, and safe experience.

1. General Safety Guidelines

• All mentors, mentees, and staff are expected to behave respectfully and uphold the values of integrity, inclusivity, and kindness.
• Any behavior jeopardizing participants' safety, well-being, or dignity is strictly prohibited.
• Participants should communicate openly and report any concerns or unsafe behaviors immediately to a designated program coordinator or supervisor.

2. Code of Conduct

• Respect: Treat everyone respectfully, maintain boundaries, and foster a positive, supportive atmosphere.
• Communication: Maintain open and transparent communication, addressing concerns promptly and respectfully.
• Confidentiality: Respect the privacy and confidentiality of mentees, mentors, and staff. All sensitive information should be handled with care.
• Professional Boundaries: Mentors and mentees should always maintain appropriate professional boundaries. Any form of physical, verbal, or emotional abuse will not be tolerated.

3. Supervision and Monitoring

• All mentorship activities should occur in public or semi-public spaces when possible.
• Regular check-ins between mentors and program coordinators will be scheduled to ensure all parties are comfortable and safe.
• Mentors should avoid one-on-one meetings in private spaces or locations where privacy cannot be maintained.

4. Emergency Protocols

• Emergency Contact Information: All participants must provide current emergency contact information before beginning the program. This information will be kept confidential and only used in an emergency.
• In medical emergencies, mentors call emergency services immediately and notify the program coordinator.
• First aid kits will be made available during any in-person meetings or events.

5. Transportation Safety

• Mentors and mentees should ensure that transportation arrangements are safe and appropriate. Mentors should use public transportation or arrange for transportation that provides safety.
• Carpooling should only occur with prior consent from both parties and involve multiple people when feasible.

6. Reporting Safety Concerns

• Any participant who feels unsafe or witnesses unsafe behavior should report the concern immediately to a Pathways Mentorship staff member.
• Concerns can be reported via email, phone, or an anonymous reporting system.
• All reports will be taken seriously and investigated thoroughly, ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals involved.

7. Safety Training

• All mentors must participate in a safety training session upon joining the program. This training will cover topics such as proper conduct, safety procedures, emergency response, and maintaining a safe environment for all participants.
• Periodic refresher training will be provided to ensure ongoing awareness of safety protocols.

8. Digital Safety

• Mentors and mentees should avoid sharing personal contact details (e.g., home addresses, personal phone numbers) unless necessary for communication purposes and agreed upon by both parties.
• All virtual communication should occur through secure, approved channels (e.g., the program’s messaging platform, email).
• Online interactions should maintain the same standards of respect, professionalism, and confidentiality as in-person interactions.

9. Health and Well-being

• Participants are encouraged to notify the program coordinator if they experience any physical or mental health concerns that might affect their participation in the program.
• Pathways Mentorship will make reasonable accommodations for participants with health-related needs.
• If there is a health-related emergency, the program coordinator will assist in making arrangements as needed.

10. Review and Update

• This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect changes in laws, regulations, or program needs.
• Participants will be informed of policy updates and encouraged to review them regularly.

Conclusion:
Pathways Mentorship is dedicated to fostering an environment where safety is prioritized. Adhering to these guidelines ensures a positive experience for all individuals involved in the mentorship program. All participants are expected to follow these safety precautions to help create a supportive, respectful, and secure space for everyone.

For questions or concerns about the safety policy, don't hesitate to contact the program coordinator at latonya@pathwaysmentorship.com.

This policy should be distributed to all mentors, mentees, and staff members and signed to acknowledge understanding and commitment.

Last Updated: 01/30/2025