Revised Operational Guidance on IFE
An updated version of the Operational Guidance for Emergency Relief Staff and Programme Managers on Infant and Young Child Feeding in Emergencies is now available from the ENN. First developed by the Interagency Working Group on IFE in 2001, it has been revised by the IFE Core Group (UNICEF, UNHCR, WHO, WFP, IBFAN-GIFA, CARE USA, Fondation Terre des hommes, and ENN) co-ordinated by the ENN.
The aim of this short document is to provide concise, practical (but non technical) guidance on how to ensure appropriate infant and young child feeding in emergencies. A number of elements are also applicable in non-emergency settings.
The Operational Guidance focuses especially on infants and young children under 2 years of age and their caregivers, recognising their particular vulnerability in emergencies.
It is intended for emergency relief staff and programme managers of all agencies working in emergency programmes. It applies to emergency situations in all countries.
Beginning with a summary of key points, this 24 page document is organised into six practical steps:
- Endorse or Develop Policies
- Train Staff
- Coordinate Operations
- Assess and Monitor
- Protect, Promote and Support IFE through Integrated Multi-Sectoral Interventions
- Minimise the Risks of Any Artificial Feeding.
Key definitions are included at the end and supporting information on how to implement the guidance is referenced throughout.
The revised Operational Guidance is currently available in English and Bahasa (Indonesia) and translation into other languages is underway.
Agency support and feedback
The 2001 Operational Guidance was supported by 30 INGOs/ NGOs/UN agencies. The IFE Core Group wish to define and establish agency support for this revised edition with future prints listing supporting agencies.
If you or your agency would like to engage in this process, would like to receive print copes, or have any feedback or comments you wish to share, contact the IFE Core Group c/o Emergency Nutrition Network, 32, Leopold Street, Oxford, OX4 1TW, UK. Tel: +44 (0)1865 324996, fax: +44 (0)1865 324997, email: ife@ennonline.net
The Operational Guidance can also be downloaded from http://www.enonnline.net in pdf or html format
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Reference this page
Revised Operational Guidance on IFE. Field Exchange 28, July 2006. p13. www.ennonline.net/fex/28/operationalguidance
(ENN_2242)