Wendy Ward (wendy.ward@redcross.org); Sydney Morton (sydney.morton@redcross.org): International Policy and Partnerships
In late FY2017 Volunteer Services determined that it was essential to set up a cross-functional “safety review committee”. The goal of this work will be to review, and revise and then implement safety plans that include workplace safety training and awareness as well as identification and mitigation of potential safety hazards while on the job.
The American Red Cross has a national database for collecting and managing volunteer information including demographic information. Separate (but integrated) systems are also in place to manage volunteer assignments and service delivery information. The Red Cross works with government and non-governmental partners to share relevant information on best practices and lessons learned.
The American Red Cross requires a criminal background search for all volunteers that includes checks into national criminal databases. If/when results of the criminal background check indicate a legal or security threat to the organization including staff and volunteers, the volunteer applicant is released from the organization.
In March 2017, ARC attended annual Security Focal Points meeting in Geneva hosted by IFRC and ICRC to discuss and collaborate on NS security surrounding: security tools off- and online; Movement security architecture (such as integration agreements); and security training development and delivery.
ARC volunteers deployed to the international missions are equally insured as the employees by the global emergency medical and security evacuation insurance through the International SOS services.
- Resolution 4 : Health Care in Danger: Continuing to protect the delivery of health care together
- Resolution 7 : Strengthening the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement response to growing humanitarian needs