SSSD accredited as ‘Child and Family Friendly Workplace’

December 11, 2025 / 4:05 PM

Sharjah 24: The Sharjah Department of Social Services has been officially recognized by the Sharjah Child Friendly Office, part of the Sharjah Health Authority, for its efforts to create a supportive environment for children and families. This recognition is part of a program called "Sharjah Child and Family Friendly," which highlights organizations that prioritize the well-being of families.

The assessment showed that the department meets the necessary standards for a nurturing workplace, which was confirmed by a visiting evaluation team. They discussed how well the department’s practices aligned with the accreditation criteria, checking various branches, including the main office and several others in the region. The good news is that no issues were found during the evaluation, leading to the accreditation of these branches as "Child and Family Friendly Workplaces."

The Department of Social Services expressed appreciation for the work of the Sharjah Child Friendly Office, emphasizing the importance of letting every child live with dignity and ensuring they are protected in all aspects of their lives—at home, school, and play.

The accreditation is based on specific guidelines for creating child- and family-friendly places, focusing on sustainability. The department demonstrated that it has clear policies supporting families, which are communicated to staff through electronic newsletters. They also adhere to local laws related to family-friendly practices.

Employees enjoy several benefits, including health insurance for themselves and their families, travel allowances, and reduced tuition fees for certain educational programs. The department takes into account the medical needs of families and offers flexible working hours when necessary. Additionally, the accreditation process recognized the department’s innovative spirit, showcasing its partnerships with organizations dedicated to children and families. They send out family awareness newsletters and promote a friendly workplace through various initiatives and services.

The department ensures that all staff members receive communication in both Arabic and English, and it provides accessibility features like wheelchairs and pathways for those in need.

Another important aspect of the department's work is promoting a culture that values families, including flexible working options and support for parents, such as breastfeeding breaks and family-friendly events. This accreditation lasts for three years.

The Sharjah Child Friendly Office is responsible for recognizing organizations in Sharjah and the UAE that are committed to being child- and family-friendly. They work with both local and international groups to protect children's rights, aiming to enhance Sharjah's reputation as a global leader in prioritizing children’s well-being.

In fact, Sharjah was named the first "Child Friendly City" in 2015 by UNICEF and the World Health Organization, following its initiatives to create child-friendly health facilities and community programs. The city became the first in the world to earn UNICEF’s Child Friendly Cities accreditation, having met new international standards for child and adolescent friendliness.