Chairperson:

1. Leads Meetings, Oversees Investigations, and Ensures Complaints Are Handled Promptly:

The Chairperson plays the most prominent role in the SCC, overseeing the entire process of complaint handling, from the moment the complaint is lodged until the resolution is reached. They are responsible for ensuring that the SCC meetings are conducted efficiently and that every complaint is investigated promptly and thoroughly, following the legal guidelines of the POCSO Act.

2. Ensures That All Members Understand Their Duties and Responsibilities:

The Chairperson must make sure that all SCC members are fully aware of their responsibilities and act according to the school’s child protection policies and the law. The Chairperson ensures that everyone is trained on child protection procedures and works collaboratively.

 Teacher Representative

1.  Acts as a Liaison Between the SCC and the Teaching Staff:

The Teacher Representative serves as a bridge between the teaching staff and the SCC. They communicate any concerns or observations from the teaching staff regarding child protection to the committee and help facilitate the flow of information about policies and procedures.

2. Ensures That Any Child Protection Concerns Raised by Teachers Are Reported to the SCC:

Teachers are often the first to notice behavioral changes or signs of distress in students. It is the responsibility of the Teacher Representative to ensure that these concerns are properly reported to the SCC for further investigation and action.
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External Member

1. Offers Independent Advice and Ensures Neutrality During the Investigation Process:

The External Member ensures that the SCC maintains impartiality and that investigations are conducted fairly and without bias. This individual provides independent oversight and guarantees that no undue influence affects the outcome of the complaint.

2. Guides the SCC on Child Protection Practices and Legal Requirements:

The External Member typically has expertise in child protection, law, or psychology and helps the SCC navigate the complexities of child protection practices. They ensure that the SCC follows the legal guidelines of the POCSO Act and other relevant laws, providing expert input on sensitive cases.

Parent Representative

1.  Represents Parents’ Concerns and Ensures They Are Informed About the School’s Child Protection Policies:

⦁ The Parent Representative ensures that parents’ voices are heard in the SCC’s decisions and actions. They help communicate the school’s child protection policies to parents, ensuring that the parent community is well-informed about how the school handles child safety.

Additional Roles and Responsibilities for Effective SCC Management:

SCC Secretary

1.  Handles Documentation and Record-Keeping:

The SCC Secretary is responsible for maintaining accurate and up-to-date records of all SCC meetings, complaints, investigations, and outcomes. This includes documenting minutes of meetings, filing complaint forms, investigation reports, and maintaining confidentiality in storing sensitive information. Proper documentation ensures that the school complies with legal requirements and is able to provide necessary information during audits or legal proceedings.

2.  Coordinates Communication Between SCC Members and Other Stakeholders:

The Secretary ensures that communication between SCC members, school authorities, parents, and external agencies (such as law enforcement or child welfare committees) is clear and timely. They play a crucial role in organizing SCC meetings and following up on action points.

Child Welfare Officer (CWO) or School Counselor

1. Provides Emotional Support and Guidance to Children Involved in Complaints:

The Child Welfare Officer or School Counselor acts as a vital resource for students involved in complaints. They provide emotional support to children who may be going through trauma or stress due to abuse or during the investigation process. The counselor ensures that children feel safe, heard, and supported throughout the investigation.

2. Collaborates with the SCC to Ensure Child-Friendly Procedures.

The Child Welfare Officer helps ensure that investigations and interactions with children are conducted in a child-sensitive and age-appropriate manner. They assist the SCC in adopting a compassionate approach while dealing with victims of abuse, and they may also liaise with external child support services.

Legal Advisor (if applicable)

1. Ensures Compliance with Legal Standards and Offers Legal Counsel:

In some cases, the SCC may include a Legal Advisor who provides guidance on complex legal matters, ensuring that the school and SCC are compliant with the POCSO Act and other relevant laws. The Legal Advisor plays an essential role in advising the SCC on legal risks, helping draft legal documents, and ensuring the investigation follows due process.

2. Represents the School in External Legal Proceedings:

In the event that legal action is taken or if the case escalates to a law enforcement level, the Legal Advisor represents the school and ensures that all necessary documentation and legal procedures are properly handled.