PSEA Changes 2019

What are the changes?

This document sets out all the changes to the Quality Assurance Framework which took effect on 31 December 2019. They are also summarised in this section for your convenience. They are designed to strengthen the Quality Assurance Framework to improve the practice and response in the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse.

Accordingly, the changes comprise:

• 1 new Compliance Indicator,
• 6 new Compliance Verifiers, and
• 9 Compliance Verifiers that have been revised or expanded.

There are also 5 new Good Practice Indicators.

While changes to the Code will strengthen member practice if implemented correctly, they should not create an unnecessary compliance burden. For members, this means that compliance with the changed requirements will largely require revision of existing policies and processes, not the development of new ones.

Why make the changes?

These changes are targeted to address the issues raised through ACFID’s 2018 Review into sector wide & member practice in relation to the prevention of sexual misconduct. Despite the recognition of the Code’s strong existing standards, specifically in relation to child safeguarding, a number of areas could be strengthened through the ACFID Code to lift member practice in the safeguarding of vulnerable people from the risk of sexual exploitation and abuse. The changes outlined address all of the recommendations of the L4D report, and 17 of the 31 recommendations of the VIFM report.

These changes have been made by the Code of Conduct Committee, achieved with consideration to the Independent Reviews, member consultation, and ACFID Board endorsement. They form one part of ACFID’s action plan with regards to PSEA. Other work streams include learning opportunities and leadership and accountability. Read more information about ACFID’s work to implement positive change.

When did they come into effect?

The updated Quality Assurance Framework took effect on 31 December 2019. The online Good Practice Toolkit includes these changes, as well as supporting guidance.