Code of conduct

Every organisation should have a code of conduct which clearly lays out the behaviour and ways of working it expects from all its workers. This is an important part of safer recruitment. 

A code of conduct aims to protect people from the effects of inappropriate behaviour by those in positions of responsibility, and to reduce the risk of unfounded allegations of abuse being made against workers.

All workers should be required to read and sign to say that they will abide by the expectations outlined in the code.

It can include:

• A statement on the need to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and adults and protect them from harm or exploitation by those looking after them within a relationship of trust.
• A description of what a relationship of trust is, and the responsibility that comes from that relationship.
• Some examples of good practice.
• An explanation of what behaviour is and is not acceptable.
• An explanation of the relationship between the Code of conduct and your safeguarding policies and procedures
• A statement that any behaviour which might allow a sexual relationship to develop between the person in a position of responsibility and any individual in their care should be avoided; and that any sexual relationship within a relationship of trust is unacceptable so long as the relationship of trust continues.
• What will happen if the code is not followed.
• How to report breaches of the code.