By Elizabeth A. Kaine
BBC Media Action has announced an initiative aimed at establishing Sierra Leone’s first dedicated support mechanism for journalists who have experienced sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment (SEAH) within the newsroom. This move represents a vital effort to enhance media safety and uphold safeguarding standards across the nation.
The organization is currently seeking a specialized consultant to help design this support mechanism over a two-month period from January to February 2026. The consultant will engage in a combination of in-country research in Freetown and remote assessments. The primary goal is to develop a practical, survivor-centered model that media organizations can adopt to assist affected journalists and bolster accountability within the industry.
Tackling Long-Standing Challenges
The proposed mechanism will provide journalists with access to vetted local medical, psychosocial, and legal services, while also fortifying reporting procedures and safeguarding frameworks in newsrooms.
“A robust survivor support mechanism can significantly mitigate harm, restore trust, and establish a regional standard for media organizations in addressing SEAH,” stated BBC Media Action. The organization underscored that the safety of journalists is essential for maintaining press freedom and democratic integrity in Sierra Leone.
Consultant Role and Responsibilities
BBC Media Action seeks a consultant with demonstrated expertise in SEAH prevention and response, safeguarding policy development, and survivor-focused case management. Key responsibilities will include:
- Conducting a feasibility study
- Mapping and evaluating local service providers
- Drafting a safeguarding framework and survivor protection protocols
- Developing an operational model specific to Sierra Leone’s media landscape
This consultancy will require 20–30 working days, with BBC Media Action facilitating all travel, logistics, and fieldwork arrangements. The selected consultant must be available to travel to Freetown during the project period.
Enhancing Safety and Accountability
This support mechanism aims to address critical gaps in Sierra Leone’s media environment by:
- Providing confidential access to specialized services for survivors
- Improving reporting and accountability mechanisms in newsrooms
- Strengthening the ability of local service providers to address SEAH involving journalists
- Helping media organizations meet international safeguarding standards
BBC Media Action has emphasized that the model will prioritize survivor agency, confidentiality, and access to appropriate care.
Application Information
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until December 16, 2025. Interested candidates must submit:
- A 2–3 page CV highlighting relevant experience in SEAH and safeguarding
- A 1-page cover letter discussing their suitability and availability
- A 2–3 page technical summary or methodology for completing the assignment
- Proposed daily rate or fixed fee
- Confirmation of availability for travel in January–February 2026
- Evidence of relevant safeguarding training or certification
- Two references familiar with the applicant’s work in SEAH or safeguarding
This consultancy offers an opportunity for professionals dedicated to journalist safety and survivor-centered practices to make a meaningful impact on the media sector in Sierra Leone.
For further inquiries, contact Daily Scope Newspaper at dailyscopemedia@gmail.com.
