This Code of Conduct is incorporated into every volunteer welcome pack and is signed by all volunteers and those serving in the church.
This behaviour code outlines the conduct expected of all workers (staff & volunteers). The Code of Conduct forms part of our Safeguarding requirements to help protect adults at risk of harm, children and young people from abuse and inappropriate behaviour from those in positions of trust, and to reduce the risk of unfounded allegations of abuse being made.
The Role of Workers (Staff & Volunteers)
When working with children and young people or adults at risk of harm, you are acting in a position of trust for Revive Church. You will be seen as a role model and must act appropriately.
Good Practice
- Treat everyone with dignity, respect and fairness, and have proper regard for individuals’ interests, rights, safety and welfare
- Work in a responsible, transparent and accountable way.
- Be prepared to challenge unacceptable behaviour or to be challenged
- Listen carefully to those you are supporting
- Avoid any behaviour that could be perceived as bullying, emotional abuse, harassment, physical abuse, spiritual abuse or sexual abuse (including inappropriate physical contact such as rough play and inappropriate language or gestures)
- Seek advice from someone with greater experience when necessary
- Work in an open environment – avoid private or unobserved situations
- Follow policies, procedures and guidelines and report all disclosers, concerns, allegations and suspicions to the safeguarding co-ordinator.
- Don’t make inappropriate promises, particularly in relation to confidentiality.
- Do explain to the individual what you intend to do and don’t delay taking action.
Unacceptable Behaviour
- Not reporting concerns or delaying reporting concerns
- Taking unnecessary risks
- Any behaviour that is or may be perceived as threatening or abusive in any way
- Passing on your personal and/social media contact details
- Developing inappropriate relationships
- Favouritism/exclusion – all people should be equally supported and encouraged.
If you have behaved inappropriately you will be subject to disciplinary procedures (particularly in the case of paid staff). Depending on the seriousness of the situation, you may be asked to leave Revive Church. We may also make a referral to statutory agencies such as the police and/or the local authority children’s or adult’s social care departments of the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). If you become aware of a breach of this code, you should escalate your concerns to the Safeguarding Coordinator or line manager in the case of paid staff members,
I agree to abide by the expectations outlined in this document and confirm that I have read the relevant policies that assist my work with vulnerable groups should I be in a position of trust.