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March 2026
Bradford, UK — Afrikindness has successfully delivered its first dedicated Safeguarding Training for parents and community leaders within Islamic communities, marking a significant milestone in faith-based safeguarding engagement.
The event was honoured by the presence of the Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Mohammed Shafiq, who delivered a powerful welcome address emphasising the importance of safeguarding awareness within all communities. He spoke about the shared responsibility of everyone (civic, faith leaders, parents etc) in protecting children, highlighting that early education and prevention are key to building safer families and stronger neighbourhoods.
The session was highly interactive and practical, covering:
- Real-life case studies
- Group discussions
- Understanding safeguarding processes in the UK
- Responding appropriately to concerns
- Preventing escalation through early awareness
A central theme of the training was the Islamic perspective on child protection. Participants explored how the rights and protection of children are firmly rooted in the Qur’an, Sunnah, and the Objectives of Shariah (Maqasid al-Shariah), which prioritise the preservation and protection of human life at every stage.
The verse from Surah Al-Isra (17:70) was reflected upon, affirming the dignity bestowed upon every human being. The concept of children as an Amanah (sacred trust) was emphasised throughout the session — reinforcing that protecting children from harm and abuse is not only a legal duty, but an Islamic obligation.
Qur’anic verses were read in Arabic, and the Imam of Ona-Alaafia, Ustadh Yussuf K. Alade addressed the gathering, reminding participants that safeguarding aligns with the core Islamic values of mercy (rahmah), justice (‘adl), and protection. He stressed that true tarbiyah (nurturing) requires compassion, wisdom, and responsibility, and that safeguarding is an act of faith and accountability before Allah.
The training was facilitated by Helen Brooks, Safeguarding Lead Afrikindness, and Bunmi Owolabi, CEO Afrikindness, who guided participants through practical safeguarding frameworks while creating a safe space for honest dialogue and questions. Parents and leaders engaged openly, raising important concerns about discipline, cultural practices, and navigating social services processes.
Feedback from attendees included:
“This session has changed my understanding — I now see safeguarding as part of my Islamic duty.”
“Very practical and reassuring. I feel more confident in protecting my children.”
“We need more conversations like this in our mosques and communities.”
The atmosphere was reflective, empowering, and solution-focused, with many participants expressing appreciation for the balanced approach that combined faith principles with UK safeguarding guidance.
Continuing the Mission
Afrikindness will continue its safeguarding mission by:
- Providing follow-up training for community leaders
- Supporting mosques and faith institutions with safeguarding policy reviews
- Offering guidance on intervention and early support pathways
- Equipping trained communities to cascade awareness within their own networks
Safeguarding is not separate from faith — it is embedded within it. Protecting children is an act of worship, a fulfilment of Amanah, and a commitment to justice and mercy.
Are you a community leader within an Islamic, Christian, or African community seeking safeguarding training and policy support?
Register your interest today:
Safeguarding Training in Faith and African Communities
Together, we can build safer, informed, and protected communities for every child.
For media enquiries, please contact:
ceo@afrikindness.org
Afrikindness
