Visitors
The security of the children and staff at Mekhala House is of critical importance. Also, FDCC does not believe that the children should be treated as a tourist attraction, however well-meaning the visitor.
Therefore, FDCC has implemented a strict security policy designed to ensure the wellbeing of the children and staff at all times, including while they are outside of Mekhala House.
FDCC will only allow for persons to visit Mekhala House on the following conditions:
- The visitor will undertake approved programs with the children or staff;
- The visitor belongs to an organisation that FDCC is seeking to establish a relationship with;
- The visitor is a family member of a Director, volunteer or staff member.
FDCC will not allow anyone to visit Mekhala House who does not meet these conditions. Approval for visiting Mekhala House can only be given by the Australian Board or the FDCC Executive Director after the visitor has satisfied the following requirements:
- Any Australian or international person intending to visit Mekhala House must undertake a national police check (or equivalent) at their own expense and present this to the Board. If the police check verifies that the proposed visitor has not been convicted of any serious offences, the Board will grant approval for the visit. However, if the proposed visitor has been convicted of any serious offences, the Board will refuse permission for the visit.
- If a proposed international visitor, intending to visit Mekhala House resides in a country where police checks are unreliable, the visitor must provide to the Board a verifiable personal reference from a reputable organisation.
This policy aligns with the responsibilities of the Australian and Cambodian Boards, which have a duty of care to ensure the safety and security of the children and staff at Mekhala House.
If you are interested in volunteering at Mekhala House, please click here.