8.3.2.4. CYRMS – Codes of Conduct

A code of conduct outlines your organisation’s values and provides clear expectations for personal and professional boundaries, ethical behaviour and appropriate and inappropriate behaviour and relationships for staff, volunteers, parents, children and young people. When a code of conduct is well established and implemented, it provides a more transparent and accountable service environment and protects children and young people from harm.

For Member code of conduct refer to MS09- Code of Conduct

We also have a SLSA Code of Conduct for People in Positions of Authority which are direct recommendations for the processes and behaviours regarding:

• Dealing with children and youth (Coaches, Trainers, Age Managers and Officials)
• Activity inductions
• Communication (face to face and electronic)
• Physical contact during training
• Change room arrangements
• Children with Special Needs/ Cultural Considerations
• Transport – drop off and pick up
• Overnight & off premises trips/ activities
• Images.
  

Should you wish to complement the existing Code by creating a generic club code of conduct you may by considering the following:

• Defining what your club considers to be appropriate professional and personal boundaries, ethical and appropriate behaviour, with reference to, language, relationships and physical contact;
• Considering cultural diversity and encouraging respect for all people regardless of cultural identity;
• Ensuring that your behaviour management and discipline policies and practices are not punitive, humiliating or aggressive;
• Making explicit the policies in relation to the use of alcohol and drugs on your premises including medication which may impair judgement; and
• Considering and defining how electronic devices and communications are used appropriately within your organisation, including the use of email/internet, mobile phones, photography and social networking sites.
  

It may also be advantageous to engage and involve children and young people in the process of developing a code of conduct as staff can be made aware of the impact of their behaviour on children and young people and can adopt a code that maximises their welfare. In addition, involving children and young people can strengthen the organisation’s commitment to children and young people, enhance their confidence and trust, and encourage them to consider their own responsibilities to a code of behaviour within the organisation.

Documents

Code of Conduct for People in Positions of Authority