Background to the "Child protection quality feature"
For clubs and associations with children and youth work
The Federal Child Protection Act came into force on January 1, 2012. Among other things, Section 72a SGB VIII - "Exclusion of persons with a relevant criminal record" was revised. The paragraph regulates the so-called inspection of the extended certificate of good conduct for people who work with children and young people, not only full-time, but also as part of voluntary care and support. This is intended to prevent children and young people from being endangered by caregivers who have been convicted of a sexual offense.
In order to find a good and joint solution, a working group consisting of representatives from the Ludwigsburg District Youth Council, the Ludwigsburg District Youth Welfare Office and the Ludwigsburg Police Headquarters tackled the issue of implementing Section 72a SGB VIII. We quickly agreed that the mere submission of a certificate of good conduct is not enough to protect children and young people. We therefore formulated a more comprehensive declaration that focuses on the topic of prevention:
- we create positive living conditions for children and young people and thereby support them in their individual and social development to become self-reliant and community-oriented personalities
- we respect the personality and dignity of children and young people
- we are sensitive to any indications that the child or young person is at risk and seek professional support from the relevant authorities, e.g. child protection specialists or youth welfare office, in good time
- we act responsibly as role models for children and young people
- we take an active stand for physical integrity and against violence, discrimination, racism and sexism
- we implement the statutory provisions on the protection of children and young people and only employ people (full-time, part-time and voluntary) who are suitable to supervise, look after and train children and young people. In areas of our organization that are particularly sensitive due to the nature, intensity and duration of contact with children and young people, we require the responsible supervisors to submit an extended police clearance certificate in accordance with Section 72a (3) and (4) SGB VIII (specific implementation is as described in the enclosed handbook)
- We work together with the parents of the children and young people on a basis of trust
