Grievance Redressal 

Grievance Redressal Policy 

Objective

The Kashf Initiative is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all members, including employees, volunteers, collaborators, and beneficiaries. This policy outlines the grievance redressal mechanism to address any concerns, disputes, or grievances related to workplace conduct, organizational policies, or other issues faced by members of the Kashf Initiative.

Scope 

This policy applies to:

• Employees, volunteers, interns, consultants, and associates of the Kashf Initiative.

• Grievances related to workplace conditions, interpersonal disputes, procedural matters, or violations of organizational policies.

Principles of Grievance Redressal

• Confidentiality: All grievances will be treated with the utmost confidentiality to protect the privacy of individuals involved.

• Impartiality: A fair and unbiased process will be followed for resolving grievances.

• Timeliness: Grievances will be resolved within a reasonable timeframe to minimize stress and disruptions.

• Transparency: The process will be transparent and well-communicated to all parties involved.

• Non-Retaliation: Retaliation against individuals who raise grievances will not be tolerated.

Types of Grievances Grievances may include, but are not limited to:

• Disputes between colleagues, volunteers, or team members.

• Unfair treatment, discrimination, or bias.

• Concerns regarding organizational policies or practices.

• Workplace harassment or bullying.

• Violation of workplace rights or ethical standards.

Grievance Redressal Procedure

Step 1: Informal Resolution

• Individuals are encouraged to address their grievance informally by discussing the issue with the person(s) involved or a direct supervisor, if comfortable.

• If the grievance cannot be resolved informally, individuals can escalate the issue through the formal grievance mechanism.

Step 2: Submission of Formal Grievance

• A formal grievance can be submitted in writing via email or a physical grievance form.

• The grievance should include:

  • Name and contact details of the complainant.

  • A clear description of the grievance.

  • Relevant dates, locations, and supporting evidence (if applicable).

  • Names of individuals involved (if any).

Step 3: Acknowledgment

• We will acknowledge receipt of the grievance within 3 working days.

Step 4: Investigation

• The Grievance Redressal Committee (GRC) will be constituted to investigate the matter. The GRC will consist of:

  • The Grievance Officer.

  • A senior member of the organization.

  • An external member, if necessary, to ensure impartiality.

• The investigation will involve:

  • Reviewing the grievance and any supporting evidence.

  • Conducting interviews with the complainant, respondent, and witnesses (if any).

  • Documenting findings and conclusions.

Step 5: Resolution

• Based on the findings, the GRC will propose a resolution, which may include:

  • Mediation between parties.

  • Corrective actions (e.g., changes in processes or policies).

  • Disciplinary action, if required.

• The resolution will be communicated to the complainant and other relevant parties within 15 working days of completing the investigation.

Step 6: Appeal

• If the complainant is dissatisfied with the resolution, they may file an appeal in writing within 7 working days of receiving the decision.

• We will review the appeal and provide a final decision within 15 working days.

6. Confidentiality and Non-Retaliation

• All grievance proceedings will be conducted confidentially to protect the identities of those involved.

• Retaliation against individuals for raising a grievance is strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary action.

7. Awareness and Training The Kashf Initiative will:

• Conduct periodic training sessions on grievance redressal procedures.

• Ensure all members are aware of this policy and their rights and responsibilities.

8. Monitoring and Review

• The Grievance Redressal Policy will be reviewed annually to ensure effectiveness and compliance with legal and organizational requirements.

• Feedback on the grievance process will be sought from members to make continuous improvements.

10. Contact Information To file a grievance or seek guidance, please contact:
Email: grievanceredressal.kashf@gmail.com