Code of Conduct Policy

1. Purpose of this policy

This Code of Conduct sets out the standards of behaviour expected of everyone working with or on behalf of Yesoid CIO. It is designed to promote a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for children, young people, adults, families, staff, and volunteers.

This policy supports Yesoid’s safeguarding responsibilities and should be read alongside our Safeguarding, Privacy, and Complaints policies.

2. Who this policy applies to

This Code of Conduct applies to:

  • Trustees

  • Employees

  • Volunteers and mentors

  • Session leaders and facilitators

  • Contractors and anyone representing Yesoid

All individuals are expected to follow this Code at all times when engaged in Yesoid activities or representing the organisation.

3. Core principles

Everyone working with Yesoid must:

  • Act in the best interests of children, young people, and adults at all times

  • Treat others with dignity, respect, and fairness

  • Maintain appropriate professional boundaries

  • Uphold Yesoid’s values and reputation

  • Follow safeguarding procedures and raise concerns promptly

4. Professional behaviour

Those working with Yesoid are expected to:

  • Be respectful, kind, and non-judgemental

  • Communicate clearly and appropriately

  • Be reliable and act with integrity

  • Follow instructions, policies, and procedures

  • Respect confidentiality and data protection requirements

Discrimination, harassment, bullying, or abusive behaviour will not be tolerated.

5. Safeguarding and boundaries

To protect everyone involved, the following standards must be upheld:

  • Do not engage in behaviour that could be misinterpreted or place yourself or others at risk

  • Maintain appropriate physical, emotional, and professional boundaries

  • Avoid being alone with a child or vulnerable adult where this has not been agreed or risk-assessed

  • Do not share personal contact details unless agreed as part of your role

  • Do not form inappropriate relationships with service users

Any safeguarding concern must be reported immediately in line with Yesoid’s safeguarding procedures.

6. Use of language and behaviour

You must not:

  • Use language that is abusive, offensive, sexualised, or discriminatory

  • Make jokes or comments that could cause distress or embarrassment

  • Engage in behaviour that could undermine trust or safety

You should always model positive behaviour.

7. Use of social media and digital communication

When using social media or digital platforms:

  • Do not post content that could harm Yesoid’s reputation

  • Do not share images or information about service users without consent

  • Maintain professional boundaries in online communication

  • Follow Yesoid’s guidance on photography, messaging, and data protection

8. Gifts, rewards, and favouritism

  • Do not give or receive personal gifts to or from service users

  • Avoid showing favouritism

  • Any rewards or incentives must be agreed by Yesoid and applied fairly

9. Confidentiality and data protection

  • Respect the confidentiality of children, families, volunteers, and colleagues

  • Share information only on a need-to-know basis

  • Follow Yesoid’s Privacy Policy and data protection procedures

Confidentiality must not be used to prevent safeguarding concerns from being raised.

10. Raising concerns

Everyone has a responsibility to raise concerns about:

  • Safeguarding

  • Unsafe practice

  • Breaches of this Code of Conduct

Concerns should be reported to the Safeguarding Lead or through Yesoid’s complaints procedure. You will not be penalised for raising genuine concerns.

11. Breaches of this Code

Failure to follow this Code of Conduct may result in:

  • Additional training or supervision

  • Suspension or removal from duties

  • Termination of involvement with Yesoid

  • Referral to relevant authorities where appropriate

12. Commitment

All trustees, staff, volunteers, and representatives of Yesoid are expected to confirm that they have read, understood, and agreed to follow this Code of Conduct.

Final note

This Code of Conduct exists to protect children, adults, volunteers, and the organisation. It supports a culture of safety, respect, and accountability across all Yesoid activities.

Last updated: 27 January 2026
Review cycle: Reviewed annually