At InterMediation Nigeria Foundation, obtaining and managing consent is a crucial part of our commitment to protecting the privacy and autonomy of individuals we serve. We ensure that all individuals, including beneficiaries, donors, and partners, are fully informed and have the opportunity to provide explicit, voluntary, and informed consent before we collect, use, or disclose their personal information. Below is our consent-handling process:

  1. Types of Consent

We obtain the following types of consent depending on the context and the nature of the personal information:

  • Explicit Consent: For sensitive data, such as health information (e.g., medical records, treatment plans) and photographs, we require clear, written consent. This consent is given after a thorough explanation of why the data is being collected, how it will be used, and who it may be shared with.
  • Implied Consent: In some cases, implied consent may be sufficient. For example, when individuals provide their contact details or engage in our programs, it is implied that they consent to us contacting them about related services or follow-up.
  • Parental/Guardian Consent for Minors: For any beneficiary under the age of 18, or under the age of majority in the relevant jurisdiction, we require parental or guardian consent before collecting or using personal data related to minors
  1. How We Obtain Consent
  • Written Consent: For activities involving sensitive data, particularly health-related data or skills acquisition tracking, we ask for written consent through forms or digital agreements. The forms clearly outline how the data will be collected, stored, used, and shared.
  • Verbal Consent: In cases where written consent may not be possible (e.g., over the phone or during field visits), verbal consent may be obtained. This is documented by our staff and followed up with written confirmation where possible.
  • Digital Consent: For those engaging with us through our website, emails, or online platforms, we collect consent through opt-in mechanisms, such as checkboxes, before processing personal information.
  1. Informed Consent Process

We ensure that consent is informed by providing the following information in clear, accessible language before asking for permission:

  • Purpose of Data Collection: Why we are collecting the data, and how it will be used.
  • Nature of the Data: What type of personal data will be collected, including health information, skills development progress, or any other sensitive data.
  • Third-Party Sharing: Who the data might be shared with (e.g., healthcare providers, donors, government agencies, etc.).
  • Storage and Retention: How long the data will be stored and the security measures in place to protect it.
  • Withdrawal of Consent: How individuals can withdraw their consent at any time, and the potential consequences of doing so (e.g., inability to receive certain services).
  1. Ongoing Consent
  • Review and Renewal: For long-term engagements, such as ongoing medical treatments or skills acquisition programs, we periodically review and renew consent to ensure it remains valid. This is especially important if there are any significant changes to how we use the individual’s data.
  • Updating Consent: If new uses of the data arise or if we need to share the data with additional third parties, we seek updated consent from the individual or their guardian before proceeding.
  1. Withdrawal of Consent

Individuals have the right to withdraw their consent at any time. To facilitate this:

  • Easy Withdrawal Process: We provide clear and accessible ways for individuals to withdraw their consent, such as through written requests, emails, or phone calls.
  • Immediate Action: Upon receiving a withdrawal request, we immediately cease the use of the individual’s personal information for the specified purpose, except where retention is required by law.
  • No Retaliation: Withdrawal of consent does not affect the individual’s access to essential services, unless the data is necessary for the provision of those services (e.g., medical care).
  1. Record-Keeping

We maintain detailed records of all consent obtained, including:

  • Date and Method of Consent: Whether consent was obtained verbally, digitally, or in writing, and when it was provided.
  • Scope of Consent: What the individual has agreed to (e.g., collection of health data, sharing information with third parties).
  • Withdrawal Records: If an individual withdraws consent, we document the request and the actions taken in response.
  1. Special Considerations
  • Language and Literacy: To ensure consent is genuinely informed, we provide explanations in the individual’s preferred language or dialect and make provisions for those with limited literacy skills. Where necessary, translators or community leaders may assist in explaining the consent process.
  • Vulnerable Populations: For vulnerable individuals, including those who may have limited understanding due to health conditions or trauma, we take extra care to ensure they fully comprehend what they are consenting to. In some cases, legal representatives or guardians may be involved in the process.
  1. Consent for Use of Images and Testimonials
  • Media and Publicity: We require explicit consent before using any individual’s photos, videos, or personal stories for marketing, fundraising, or awareness campaigns. Beneficiaries are under no obligation to consent to the use of their images or stories as part of receiving our services.

By adhering to these consent principles, InterMediation Nigeria Foundation ensures that the dignity, privacy, and autonomy of every individual we work with are respected, while remaining compliant with applicable data protection laws.