Complaints Procedure
- As Black as Love
- Jun 24
- 4 min read
Our Commitment
We are committed to providing a safe, respectful, and healing environment for all participants and staff. We have zero tolerance for any form of physical, sexual, or power abuse. This procedure ensures that any concerns or complaints are taken seriously, investigated thoroughly, and addressed appropriately.
Reporting a Complaint
Immediate Reporting Options
For Participants:
Contact the retreat leader/facilitator immediately if you feel safe to do so
Contact [Your Name] directly at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email]
Contact our designated safety officer at [Safety Officer Contact]
Report to local authorities if you believe a crime has been committed
For Staff/Facilitators:
Report immediately to [Your Name] as the primary facilitator
Contact our designated safety officer
Report to local authorities if you believe a crime has been committed
Emergency Situations
If you are in immediate danger or a crime is in progress, contact local emergency services immediately: Ghana Police Emergency: 191
Anonymous Reporting
We understand that some individuals may prefer to report anonymously. You may:
Submit a written complaint via email to info@akuao.com
Have a trusted friend or family member report on your behalf
Contact our independent safety advocate at [contact information]
Types of Misconduct Covered
This procedure addresses complaints involving:
Physical Abuse
Unwanted physical contact of any kind
Physical violence or threats of violence
Inappropriate touching during ceremonies or sessions
Any physical contact that violates stated boundaries
Sexual Abuse
Any sexual contact between facilitators and participants
Sexual harassment, including unwanted sexual advances
Inappropriate sexual comments or behavior
Exploitation of the vulnerable state participants may experience during ceremonies
Power Abuse
Exploitation of the facilitator-participant relationship
Coercion or manipulation during vulnerable states
Financial exploitation
Abuse of spiritual authority or position
Discrimination based on race, gender, sexuality, or other protected characteristics
Response Protocol
Immediate Response (Within 24 Hours)
Safety First: Ensure the immediate safety of the complainant and other participants
Documentation: Record the complaint in writing with date, time, and details
Suspension: Temporarily suspend the accused facilitator from all duties pending investigation
Support: Provide appropriate support resources to the complainant
Notification: Inform relevant authorities if required by law
Investigation Process (Within 7 Days)
Independent Investigation: Conduct thorough investigation by qualified independent party
Interview Process: Interview complainant, witnesses, and accused party separately
Evidence Collection: Gather all relevant evidence and documentation
Documentation: Maintain detailed records of all investigation activities
Interim Measures: Implement additional safety measures as needed
Resolution and Follow-Up (Within 14 Days)
Decision: Make determination based on investigation findings
Action: Implement appropriate consequences (dismissal, training, policy changes)
Communication: Inform all relevant parties of outcomes (within confidentiality limits)
Support: Provide ongoing support to affected individuals
Policy Review: Review and update policies as needed to prevent future incidents
Consequences for Misconduct
Confirmed Misconduct Will Result In:
Immediate termination of the facilitator's role
Permanent ban from all future retreats and activities
Legal action where appropriate, including police notification
Professional reporting to relevant professional bodies or associations
Financial consequences including refund of fees and potential damages
Additional Measures:
Community notification where appropriate to prevent future harm
Support for survivors including counseling referrals and ongoing assistance
Policy improvements to prevent similar incidents
Support for Complainants
Immediate Support
Safe accommodation arrangements if needed
Transportation assistance
Medical attention if required
Emotional support and counseling referrals
Ongoing Support
Follow-up check-ins at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months
Assistance with any legal processes
Referrals to appropriate professional support services
Confidentiality
Information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis
Complainant's identity will be protected to the extent possible
All investigation materials will be kept confidential and secure
Rights of All Parties
Complainant Rights
Right to be believed and taken seriously
Right to safety and protection from retaliation
Right to confidentiality within legal limits
Right to be informed of investigation progress and outcomes
Right to have a support person present during interviews
Accused Rights
Right to know the nature of allegations
Right to respond to allegations
Right to fair and impartial investigation
Right to legal representation
Right to confidentiality during investigation process
Prevention Measures
Training Requirements
All facilitators must complete ethics and boundary training
Annual refresher training on appropriate conduct
Specific training on working with vulnerable populations
Clear understanding of power dynamics in therapeutic relationships
Ongoing Monitoring
Regular check-ins with participants during and after retreats
Anonymous feedback systems
Peer observation and accountability systems
Clear policies on appropriate conduct and boundaries
Contact Information
Primary Contact: Akua Ofosuhene +233 267 44 6049 Email: info@akuao.com
Independent Safety Officer: Nana Evans +44 7484 620766
Emergency Services: Ghana Police: 191 Ghana Fire Service: 192 Ghana National Ambulance Service: 193
Legal Compliance
This procedure complies with:
Ghana's laws regarding assault, sexual offenses, and professional misconduct
International best practices for therapeutic and spiritual communities
Professional ethics standards for healing practitioners
Human rights principles and victim protection standards
Regular Review
This procedure will be reviewed and updated annually or following any incident to ensure it remains effective and current with best practices and legal requirements.
This procedure is effective as of [Date] and applies to all retreats, ceremonies, and activities conducted under our organization.
Acknowledgment: By working with our organization or participating in our programs, all parties acknowledge they have read, understood, and agree to abide by this complaints procedure.
Comments