Funder Safeguarding Collaborative (FSC) FAQ

Getting Started

Q: What is this platform?

This is a customized digital platform provided by Nonprofit Builder (NPB) to help FSC efficiently manage its network of safeguarding consultants and member foundations. NPB is a global platform dedicated to strengthening nonprofits through high-quality, personalized capacity-building support.

Q: Who can use this service?

This platform is for FSC's network of member foundations and safeguarding consultants. This service is offered to FSC member foundations at no cost, now and in the future.

Q: How do I get an account?

FSC will invite its member foundations to the platform. You will receive a clear, branded invitation email with step-by-step instructions on how to join the platform.

Q: What other resources are available to help me get started?

In addition to this FAQ, comprehensive user manuals and a welcome video have been developed for all stakeholders. The NPB team will also provide onboarding support.

Finding and Working with Consultants

Q: How do I find a safeguarding consultant on the platform?

Upon logging in, you will be directed to a dedicated consultant browser that displays all safeguarding consultants on the Nonprofit Builder platform. You can search and review the profiles of consultants who have been invited and liked by FSC or by other foundations.

Q: How do I contact a consultant?

You can use the "Contact" button on a consultant's profile page to reach out directly. You may contact multiple consultants to find the best fit. You can also use the 'Post a Project' feature to submit specific project requests to a selection of consultants (up to 10) and receive applications directly from those who are interested.

Q: What is the difference between the Consultant request and the Posted Project feature? 

The Consultant request function allows you to reach out only to one expert at a time, while the Post a project feature allows you to reach out to a selection of consultants, up to 10, simultaneously. 

Q: How does communication and collaboration work once I've made contact?

All discussions, scoping, and agreements for work will take place directly between your organization and the consultant, outside of the Nonprofit Builder platform. The NPB team is not involved in these exchanges and does not have access to any project details.

Q: How does Nonprofit Builder (NPB) vet and ensure the credibility of the safeguarding consultants listed on the Funder Safeguarding Collaborative platform?

A: Ensuring the expertise and integrity of every consultant, especially those focused on safeguarding, is our highest priority. We employ a robust Quality Assurance Framework to ensure they are professionals of proper standing:

• Trusted Referral Network: We source safeguarding consultants primarily through direct referrals from trusted partners, including Laudes Foundation, Oak Foundation, and the Funder Safeguarding Collaborative (FSC). This is a critical foundational step, starting with the existing knowledge and trust of reputable foundations, giving us confidence in the consultants' demonstrated expertise.

• Expert Interview and Vetting: After receiving a referral, we meet with the consultant to assess their background, specific experience, approach, and personality. Crucially, our dedicated safeguarding expert, Agatha Mumo, conducts a specialized interview to verify their safeguarding experience, credibility, and ability to work within the sensitive and nuanced framework required by NPB and FSC partners.

• Background Checks: We conduct background checks by reviewing their social pages, such as LinkedIn, and contacting professional referees for feedback on their past performance.

• Final Onboarding & Code of Conduct: Only after successfully passing the expert interview and internal review are consultants invited to the platform. As a final step in our due diligence, every consultant must:

  • Formally agree to follow our "Code of Conduct for Consultants."

  • Review and adhere to the "Quality Assurance Policy for Consultants working with Non-profits," which guides their professional behavior and ethical standards.

This comprehensive, multi-layered process ensures that every safeguarding consultant accessible to FSC member foundations is both a technical expert and ethically reliable.

Q: How can I ensure the consultant has the right skills for my needs?

NPB & FSC has curated a directory of safeguarding consultants who have been assessed to have a good understanding of the key components of effective safeguarding. However, you should complete your due diligence to ensure consultants have the specific knowledge and experience required for each assignment.

Using the Platform & Providing Feedback

Q: How can I provide feedback on my experience with a consultant?

As engagement with consultants will primarily happen outside the platform, the most effective way we will gather information about your experiences is through a feedback form that we will send twice a year. You can also reach out to us directly via support@nonprofitbuilder.org should you have a pressing matter to report.

Q: Does Funder Safeguarding Collaborative track our activity on the platform?

FSC Admins will be sent automated email notifications whenever any of their member foundations use the contact form to reach out to a consultant.

Need Additional Support?

Q: What should I do if I get stuck or have questions?

The NPB support team is available throughout the project for troubleshooting, guidance, and onboarding assistance. You are welcome to contact Joan Gekonde, Project Coordinator, at support@nonprofitbuilder.org.