Our roots began in Denver, as a vision of a local pediatrician, Henry Kempe. He published the groundbreaking work, the “Battered Child Syndrome, ” in which Dr. Kempe recognized that it was not a private family matter, but rather the community’s responsibility to protect child rights. Through his own medical practice he also concluded that child centered, optimal outcomes would be realized only through the dedication of diverse sectors. By creating a society, this special group of professionals would also be able to build a community of practice, research and support.
On July 7, 1977, the International Society for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (ISPCAN) was established.
ISPCAN’s work embodies Henry Kempe’s desire that all of us working in the field never cease to ask difficult questions, to challenge ourselves to reach beyond what is possible and to strive for what is needed to protect children. We continue to adapt, evolve and progress with our global workforce to rise up to end child abuse.
ISPCAN Policies *
ISPCAN’s team, members, donors and partners invest in a safer world for children. Strong safeguarding practices are core to our identity and critical to achieving systemic change in child protection globally.
Our comprehensive safeguarding approach for all activities ensures:
- Protection of all children and adults in any ISPCAN-supported activity
- Ethical, dignified representation of children and families
- Strong internal controls, vetting, and accountability mechanisms
- Trusted processes for reporting and investigation
- Rigorous partner assessment and compliance
Safeguarding, diversity, inclusion and codes of conduct are not just a policy — it is a promise to everyone we serve and a required part of our business practice.
*Required compliance for all staff, board, members, associates, event attendees or partners
