Description: This document describes the Safeguard Program implemented by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in the US. The Safeguard Program is a model for protecting and providing support to staff who view objectionable material in the workplace.
The Safeguard Program aims to assist staff members in developing the healthy coping skills necessary to maintain a positive work/life balance, using four main cornerstones: 1) the hiring procedure; 2) mandatory participation in the program; 3) use of an outside consultant; and 4) off-site staff support.
What's the evidence base for this resource: The Safeguard Program was developed by a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Professional Counsellor, both of whom have significant professional experience working with people who have experienced trauma. In 2010, an evaluation of the Safeguard program showed that employees benefited from the program.
Potential uses and limitations: The resource describes policies and procedures that encompass the recruitment stage, individualised support, peer support, psychoeducational training, and post-employment support. While aimed at staff members viewing objectionable material, the content may be relevant for any organisations where staff are exposed to vicarious trauma.
However, this document merely summarises the Program rather than going into depth describing the content of the policies and procedures. A further limitation is that, though an evaluation showed that staff members benefited from the Safeguard Program, many also felt overwhelmed by the amount of services it required.
Where it comes from: The program is run within The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in the US. The resource was compiled by two employees experienced in trauma work.
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Management and Supervision Staff Health and Wellness Training and Professional Development