SafeKids Alliance-UNICEF x Piraeus Bank
An important partnership for the strengthening of the child protection system
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- English
The SafeKids Alliance programme, launched in 2023 is implemented as part of the UNICEF Office in Greece Five-Year Programme (2022–2026) and is a strategic partnership between UNICEF and Piraeus Bank aimed at strengthening the child protection system in the country.
The challenge
Protecting children from abuse and neglect remains a critical issue.
With the prosecuting authorities being the main decision-making body and social services being the first line of intervention, the absence of common tools and harmonized practices carries the risk of inconsistency and delays in interventions to protect children at risk and ensure their rights.
The intervention
1.Development of a Handbook of Actions for the Protection of Children at Risk: Steps for Prosecutors and Social Workers
UNICEF, in close collaboration with the Prosecutor's Office, the Ombudswoman for Children, agencies and professionals in the field has developed the first Handbook of Procedures for the Protection of Children at Risk, which:
• Clarifies roles, stages, timelines, and procedures between prosecutorial authorities and social services.
• Incorporates international practices, existing legislation and practices in the field.
• Includes tools, forms and guidelines that facilitate daily practice.
• Is a practical and supportive tool for professionals who come into contact with children. To provide feedback and familiarize professionals with the tool, nationwide seminars were held with 788 participants, with a particularly positive response in terms of its practicality and usefulness.
2. Proposal for the Creation of a Unified Case Recording System
Through an evaluation of existing practices for recording prosecutorial cases, UNICEF developed:
• A standardized electronic recording system
• With clear indicators, common terminology, and a user manual
The system will enable:
• Systematic collection and analysis of data on abuse/neglect
• Evidence-based policy-making and child protection planning.
Results
The SafeKids Alliance programme contributes significantly to:
• Harmonizing procedures and strengthening cooperation between two critical institutions.
• The development of professional skills through the introduction of stable tools and methodologies.
• Data-driven and evidence-based policy-making.
• Strengthening the reform of the child protection system, in line with national priorities and children's rights.
The interventions are directly linked to the objectives of UNICEF's National Programme for Greece (2022–2026) to prevent and address all forms of violence, promote family care and strengthen institutions.
Thanks to the support of Piraeus Bank, UNICEF has been able to promote tools and procedures that enhance the safety, protection and care of thousands of children. The handbook reflects a common approach and vision for strengthening the child protection system in our country.
This collaboration shows how the private sector can actively contribute to the creation of a coherent, humane and effective child protection system.