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P.O.S.H.
We have taken up the mission of spreading awareness about the Prevention of Sexual Harassment at the workplace and the Protection of Women Against Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act. the NGO has developed a comprehensive strategy to raise awareness and educate communities.
Spreading Awareness

How do we create general awareness about POSH among employees and community of the organisation?

Prevention of sexual harassment at the workplace and the Protection of Women Against Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act in India is crucial for fostering a safe and respectful work environment. Here are some steps we take with the organization to create awareness:

Policy Development: Develop a comprehensive sexual harassment policy aligned with the requirements of the POSH Act. The policy should clearly define what constitutes sexual harassment, outline the complaint procedure, and emphasize the organization's commitment to a safe workplace.

Mandatory Training: Conduct regular training sessions on sexual harassment prevention and the POSH Act for all employees. These sessions should cover topics like understanding sexual harassment, recognizing and reporting incidents, and the consequences of non-compliance.

Communication and Outreach: Utilize various communication channels, such as emails, newsletters, notice boards, and intranet portals, to disseminate information about the POSH Act, the organization's policy, and any updates or changes related to sexual harassment prevention.

Sensitization Workshops: Organize workshops or seminars facilitated by experts on gender sensitization, diversity, and inclusion. These sessions can help employees understand the importance of creating a respectful work environment and provide them with tools to address and prevent harassment.

Display Posters and Visual Reminders: Place posters and visual reminders in common areas like break rooms, restrooms, and hallways to reinforce the organization's commitment to preventing sexual harassment. These posters can include information on the definition of sexual harassment, reporting mechanisms, and support resources available.

Anonymous Reporting Mechanism: Establish a confidential and anonymous reporting mechanism, such as a helpline or an online platform, to encourage employees to report incidents without fear of retaliation. Clearly communicate the process for reporting and assure employees that their complaints will be taken seriously and investigated promptly.

Leadership Commitment: Ensure that senior leaders and managers demonstrate their commitment to preventing sexual harassment by actively participating in awareness programs, reinforcing zero-tolerance policies, and leading by example. This sends a strong message that the organization takes the issue seriously.

Ongoing Support and Resources: Provide employees with access to counseling services, support groups, or external resources that can help them cope with incidents of harassment. Maintain a list of helpline numbers, NGOs, or legal aid organizations that specialize in handling cases related to sexual harassment.

Regular Assessments and Feedback: Conduct periodic assessments to gauge the effectiveness of awareness initiatives and identify areas for improvement. Encourage feedback from employees through surveys or anonymous suggestion boxes to ensure that their concerns are heard and addressed.

Compliance and Disciplinary Action: Ensure that reported incidents are investigated impartially and in a timely manner. If a complaint is substantiated, take appropriate disciplinary action against the harasser, following the guidelines set forth in the POSH Act.

Remember, creating awareness is an ongoing process, and it should be reinforced consistently to embed a culture of respect and prevent sexual harassment at the workplace.

How do we create awareness among students of universities and institutes, about prevention of sexual harassment at workplace or POSH act?

Creating awareness among students of universities and institutes about the prevention of sexual harassment at the workplace and the Protection of Women Against Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act is crucial for instilling a culture of respect and ensuring their preparedness for the professional world. Here are some steps to create awareness among students:

Orientation and Induction Programs: Incorporate sessions on sexual harassment prevention and the POSH Act into orientation and induction programs for new students. These sessions should provide an overview of the law, define sexual harassment, and emphasize the importance of respectful behavior.

Workshops and Training Sessions: Conduct interactive workshops and training sessions on sexual harassment prevention, consent, bystander intervention, and creating safe environments. Use real-life case studies and scenarios to engage students and encourage discussion.

Guest Speakers and Panel Discussions: Invite subject matter experts, legal professionals, and survivors of sexual harassment to speak to students. Panel discussions can provide different perspectives and insights on the issue, fostering a better understanding among students.

Awareness Campaigns: Launch awareness campaigns across campus to educate students about sexual harassment prevention. Utilize posters, flyers, digital displays, and social media platforms to disseminate information, raise awareness, and promote reporting mechanisms.

Student Organizations and Clubs: Collaborate with student organizations and clubs to organize events, workshops, and awareness campaigns. Encourage these groups to take an active role in promoting respectful behavior, consent education, and supporting survivors of sexual harassment.

Mandatory Courses or Modules: Integrate mandatory courses or modules on sexual harassment prevention and the POSH Act into the curriculum. These courses can be offered as standalone modules or incorporated into existing subjects, such as gender studies, human resources, or ethics.

Peer Educators or Ambassadors: Select and train student peer educators or ambassadors who can serve as advocates for preventing sexual harassment. These students can facilitate discussions, lead awareness campaigns, and provide information and support to their peers.

Reporting Mechanisms: Establish clear and accessible reporting mechanisms for incidents of sexual harassment on campus. Ensure that students are aware of the reporting process, confidentiality measures, and the support available to them.

Collaborations with External Organizations: Collaborate with local NGOs, helplines, or legal aid organizations that specialize in addressing sexual harassment. Arrange for workshops, counseling services, or resource sessions conducted by these organizations to provide additional support to students.

Alumni Engagement: Engage alumni who have experience in the field of preventing sexual harassment or are working in relevant sectors. They can serve as mentors, guest speakers, or provide insights into real-world scenarios and professional best practices.

Regular Assessments and Feedback: Conduct periodic assessments to evaluate the effectiveness of awareness programs and initiatives. Seek feedback from students through surveys or focus groups to understand their needs and continuously improve the approach.

Creating awareness among students is a continuous effort that requires collaboration between the institution, faculty, staff, and students themselves. By implementing these strategies at universities and institutes we can successfully foster an environment that promotes respect, safety, and equality for all students.

How we create awareness and support system for any ICC committee in an office, workplace, institution or university in regards to prevention of sexual harassment at workplace or POSH act?

Creating awareness for an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) or any committee responsible for preventing sexual harassment at the workplace and enforcing the Protection of Women Against Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act is essential for ensuring a safe and inclusive work environment. Here we help the organisation to build a robust and comprehensive committee to counter any sexual harassment cases at their workplace efficiently and effectively.

Communication channels: Establish clear communication channels within the organization to disseminate information about the ICC committee and its role in preventing sexual harassment. This can include email announcements, intranet portals, bulletin boards, and staff newsletters.

Induction and Training: Include a dedicated session on the ICC committee and its functions during the induction process for new employees. Conduct regular training sessions for existing employees to familiarize them with the committee's purpose, complaint filing process, and their rights and responsibilities.

ICC Policy and Procedures: Develop a comprehensive policy document that outlines the ICC's mandate, procedures for reporting incidents, and the investigation process. Make this policy easily accessible to all employees through the organization's intranet or shared drives.

Awareness Sessions: Conduct periodic awareness sessions specifically focused on the ICC committee and the POSH Act. These sessions should provide an overview of sexual harassment, the legal framework, the role of the ICC, and how employees can approach the committee with complaints.

Visual Materials: Create visually appealing materials such as posters, infographics, or videos that highlight key information about the ICC committee, the complaint process, and contact details. Display these materials in common areas like break rooms, notice boards, or elevators to grab employees' attention.

Anonymous Reporting Mechanism: Emphasize the availability of an anonymous reporting mechanism within the organization. Communicate that employees have the option to report incidents anonymously to the ICC committee, ensuring confidentiality and encouraging more individuals to come forward.

Internal Communication Campaigns: Launch internal campaigns to raise awareness about the ICC committee and the importance of preventing sexual harassment. Utilize various mediums such as email newsletters, internal social media platforms, or employee town halls to share success stories, case studies, and updates from the committee.

Management Support: Ensure that senior management actively supports the ICC committee's work. Encourage leaders to communicate their commitment to preventing sexual harassment and promote a culture of respect and accountability throughout the organization.

Periodic Reminders: Send periodic reminders to employees about the ICC committee's role and their rights regarding reporting incidents of sexual harassment. These reminders can be in the form of email updates, newsletters, or short awareness messages.

Continuous Training and Development: Provide ongoing training and development opportunities for ICC committee members to enhance their knowledge and skills in dealing with sexual harassment cases. This can include workshops, webinars, or external training programs.

Case Studies and Best Practices: Share case studies and best practices related to sexual harassment prevention within the organization. Highlight successful resolution of cases and lessons learned to reinforce the effectiveness of the ICC committee and the organization's commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.

Feedback Mechanism: Establish a feedback mechanism for employees to provide suggestions or share their experiences with the ICC committee. Encourage employees to provide feedback anonymously if they prefer, to ensure an open and honest dialogue.

By implementing these steps, we help the organization create awareness and promote the active involvement of employees in preventing sexual harassment. This, in turn, strengthens the effectiveness of the ICC committee and contributes to fostering a respectful and safe workplace culture.

Our Conduct and Responsibility as an external member in the ICC committee of an organisation

Our role as an external member in an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) for the prevention of sexual harassment at the workplace is crucial in ensuring an impartial and unbiased process. Here are our key responsibilities as an external member:

Impartiality and Neutrality: As external members, we bring an objective perspective to the ICC proceedings. We maintain impartiality and neutrality while evaluating complaints, conducting investigations, and making recommendations.

Knowledge of the POSH Act and Guidelines: As external members, we have a thorough understanding of the provisions of the Protection of Women Against Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act and the guidelines issued by the government. This knowledge helps ensure that the ICC functions in compliance with legal requirements.

Expertise in Preventing Sexual Harassment: We, as external members, possess expertise in the field of preventing sexual harassment, including a good understanding of the dynamics of harassment, its impact on victims, and best practices for prevention and resolution.

Active Participation in ICC Proceedings: We actively participate in ICC meetings and proceedings. We contribute by reviewing complaints, participating in the investigation process, providing guidance to the committee, and ensuring that the proceedings are fair and just.

Supporting a Victim-Centric Approach: We advocate for a victim-centric approach throughout the investigation and resolution process. We ensure that the complainant is treated with sensitivity, respect, and confidentiality, and that their rights are protected.

Contributing to Decision-Making: We play a role in decision-making within the ICC. We provide our insights, analysis, and recommendations based on our expertise and understanding of the case and the POSH Act.

Guiding and Mentoring the ICC: If required, we offer to act as mentors and guides for the ICC members. Being from the legal field, we provide support in understanding the legal framework, conducting fair investigations, interpreting the POSH Act, and ensuring compliance with due process.

Assisting in the Development of Policies and Procedures: We also contribute to the development or revision of the organization's policies and procedures related to preventing sexual harassment. Our expertise can help ensure that these policies align with legal requirements and best practices.

Training and Capacity Building: We can contribute to training sessions and capacity-building initiatives for ICC members, employees, and other stakeholders. We, with our experience, can provide insights, case studies, and guidance on handling sexual harassment issues effectively.

Ensuring Compliance and Best Practices: We, as external members, ensure that the ICC functions in compliance with the POSH Act and other applicable laws. We provide recommendations for enhancing the effectiveness of the ICC and promoting best practices in preventing sexual harassment.

Confidentiality and Integrity: As external members, we maintain strict confidentiality and integrity throughout our engagement with the ICC. We ensure that sensitive information related to the complaints and the individuals involved is handled with utmost care and discretion.

The presence of an external member in an ICC brings credibility, expertise, and independence to the process of preventing and addressing sexual harassment. We make sure our conduct and responsibilities contribute to building a safe and inclusive workplace environment.

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