Code of Conduct

Purpose
This code of conduct outlines the conduct expected of all in a position of responsibility at Newcastle upon Tyne Unitarians, including staff, anyone engaged to provide a professional service such as leading worship, trustees, and other volunteers. The phrase ‘position of responsibility’ covers all these roles. It aims to:

1. help protect all individuals, and in particular adults at risk of harm and children & young people, from harm, abuse, and inappropriate behaviour from those in positions of trust;
2. reduce the risk of unfounded allegations of abuse being made.

General Obligations

1. Anyone in a position of responsibility must not, whether in their official capacity, or any other circumstances, conduct themself in a manner which could reasonably be regarded as bringing Newcastle upon Tyne Unitarians or Unitarianism into disrepute.
2. Anyone in a position of responsibility must:
   a. promote equality by not discriminating unlawfully against any person;
   b. treat others with respect.
3. Anyone in a position of responsibility:
   a. must not in their official capacity, or any other circumstances, use their position improperly to confer on or secure for themselves, or any other person, an advantage or disadvantage; and
   b. must, when using or authorising the use by others of the resources of Newcastle upon Tyne Unitarians, ensure that such use is always done in line with our charitable aims and objectives, as set out in our constitution (sometimes called the ‘Church Rules’).

Behaviour Code
The following applies in all circumstances, but particularly when working or volunteering with children & young people or adults at risk of harm. This is a position of especial trust and responsibility. You will be seen as a role model and must act appropriately. It applies whether you are working or volunteering in person or online.

Good practice if you have a safeguarding concern
• Seek advice from someone with greater experience when necessary;
• Follow policies, procedures and guidelines and report all disclosures, concerns, allegations, and suspicions to the safeguarding co-ordinator(s);
• Don’t make inappropriate promises, particularly in relation to confidentiality;
• Do explain to the individual involved or affected what you intend to do;
• 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;
• Developing inappropriate relationships;
• Favouritism or exclusion – all people should be equally supported and encouraged.

Breaching the Code of Conduct

If you have behaved inappropriately, you will be subject to disciplinary procedures, particularly in the case of paid staff where your line manager will consult the safeguarding coordinator as appropriate. Depending on the seriousness of the situation, you may be asked to leave Newcastle upon Tyne Unitarians. 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 or DBS. If you become aware of a breach of this code, you should escalate your concerns to the safeguarding coordinators, currently the Trustees (Management Committee), or line manager (in the case of a paid staff member).

If you need to, you can download a copy of the form and sign it here: