Following the complaint dated December 3, 2018, from an employee against the chairman of our association, the board communicates below. 

The board regrets the circumstances and the damage that affected those involved and our association. After receiving the complaint, the chairman immediately resigned his position as board member and the board requested the employee to temporarily stop working. In line with the COC Netherlands code of conduct, the board immediately engaged an external inquiry committee. This independent complaints committee consists of experts who have experience with this matter.

On February 13, 2019, the complaints committee issued its advice and explained it to the board. It is important that – despite the fact that the complaints committee also aims to find the truth – the complaints committee has assessed from the framework whether the complaint is well-founded or not. This specifically concerns a behavioral law and an employment law framework, taking into account the code of conduct of COC Netherlands. 

The independent complaints committee states in its advice that the board – and the chairman more specifically – in its role as employer in the internal guidance of the employee has known too little professional, adequate supervision and 'distance'.

The board concludes that a situation has arisen that only has losers. It cannot be emphasized enough that safety is the most important principle in our association, which must be guaranteed at all times.

The board will start working on the recommendations indicated by the complaints committee. This means that if an employment law (legal) relationship is entered into with an employee / volunteer, this relationship is covered with the necessary behavioral law guarantees. This should take place by explicitly discussing the existing COC Netherlands Code of Good Conduct, both before and during this employment relationship, and by arranging adequate professional supervision. This ensures enforcement of the internal rules of conduct. This is an important step towards improving the safety climate within COC Haaglanden.

The Complaints Committee also reports that the way in which the Board has acted deserves a great compliment in the eyes of the Complaints Committee. In a careful and respectful manner, she gave the complaints committee room to conduct its internal investigation in silence. 

For questions, please contact general board member Walter de Quaasteniet, e-mail: walter@cochaaglanden.nl.

February 20 2019