Local Economic Development and Social Inclusion Policy
Introduction and Purpose
At BeFree Mental Health, we believe that mental health cannot be separated from the social and economic development of communities. As pioneers in artificial intelligence applied to mental health in Latin America, we take on the responsibility of promoting inclusive economic growth models that reduce inequalities, strengthen local capacities, and generate sustainable well-being.
Our purpose is clear: to prevent suicide, promote mental health, and at the same time contribute to the economic and social progress of the communities where we operate.
Core Principles
• Social inclusion: Ensure that youth, women, marginalized communities, and people with disabilities have opportunities for employment, training, and development within BeFree.
• Local economic development: Prioritize the hiring of local suppliers and partners, generating a positive multiplier effect on the regional economy.
• Responsible innovation: Use AI and precision medicine to transform mental health, always accompanied by an ethical, inclusive, and sustainable commitment.
• Transparency and accountability: Measure, evaluate, and report the economic and social impacts generated by our operations and partnerships.
Scope
This policy applies to:
• Talent recruitment processes (psychologists, psychiatrists, coaches, administrative staff).
• Selection and development of suppliers.
• Strategic alliances with governments, universities, NGOs, and private companies.
• Innovation projects and corporate wellness programs.
Commitments and Goals
a) Inclusive and youth employment
• At least 50% of new clinical hires (psychologists and psychiatrists) will be Young professionals with ≤3 years since graduation.
• Provide continuous training in digital mental health, ethics, suicide prevention, and emerging technologies.
• Design career growth pathways to ensure talent retention and quality of service.
b) Local procurement and inclusive suppliers
• A minimum of 30% of the annual procurement budget will be allocated to local suppliers.
• At least 40% of these local suppliers will be SMEs led by women, youth, or marginalized communities.
• Implement a mentorship and capacity-building program for local suppliers, with training in management, digitalization, legal compliance, and sustainability.
c) Alliances for economic development
• Establish agreements with local universities and schools for professional internships and joint research in mental health.
• Develop community projects in partnership with local governments and NGOs to reach vulnerable populations.
• Participate in Local Economic Development (LED) roundtables in the territories where we operate.
d) Social and environmental impact
• Promote the responsible use of resources, minimizing our environmental footprint in offices and digital platforms.
• Encourage community wellness programs (workshops, training sessions, preventive programs) as part of our agreements with partners.
Monitoring Indicators
• % of purchases made from local and diverse suppliers.
• % of young professionals hired in psychology and psychiatry.
• # of agreements with universities and # of students benefiting.
• # of local suppliers trained and strengthened.
• Indirect economic impact (measured by the local multiplier effect).
• Annual sustainability and inclusion reports.
Transparency and Reporting
BeFree will publish an annual economic and social impact report, aligned with international standards (GRI 204: Procurement Practices, GRI 413: Local Communities) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically:
• SDG 3: Good health and well-being.
• SDG 8: Decent work and economic growth.
• SDG 10: Reduced inequalities.
• SDG 12: Responsible consumption and production.
Review and Update
This policy will be reviewed and updated annually by the Board of Directors of BeFree Mental Health S.A.S., ensuring its relevance and effectiveness in the territories where we operate.
Final Statement
At BeFree Mental Health, we understand that there is no mental health without social justice, and no economic progress without inclusion. Our commitment to local economic development and social inclusion is an integral part of our mission: to save lives, transform communities, and build a fairer and healthier future for all.
BeFree Mental Health S.A.S.
NIT 901.816.798-1
Av. Santander 62-39, Oficina 502B, Manizales, Caldas, Colombia
Correo: info@befreehealth.ai
