Code of Conduct

1. Introduction

Birmingham Carers Support ("the Organisation") is committed to maintaining high standards of integrity, accountability, and professionalism in all of its operations. This Code of Conduct ("the Code") outlines the values and principles that govern the behaviour of all individuals associated with the Organisation, including employees, volunteers, contractors, board members, and any other individuals acting on behalf of the Organisation ("Staff").

The purpose of this Code is to ensure that all individuals associated with the Organisation act ethically and responsibly, in compliance with relevant laws and Organisational policies.

2. Scope

This Code applies to all Staff of the Organisation, regardless of their role or position, and to anyone acting on behalf of the Organisation. It is expected that all individuals comply with this Code while engaging in any activity related to the Organisation, whether inside or outside of regular working hours, and during both work and non-work-related activities that reflect upon the Organisation.

3. Core Principles

The Organisation expects all individuals to adhere to the following core principles:

• Integrity and Honesty: All individuals must act with honesty, transparency, and integrity in all professional interactions, ensuring that decisions are made in the best interests of the Organisation and its stakeholders.

• Respect and Fairness: All individuals must treat others with respect, fairness, and dignity. Discrimination, harassment, or any behaviour that creates an unsafe or hostile environment is strictly prohibited.

• Accountability: All individuals are accountable for their actions and decisions, and are responsible for upholding the Organisation’s values, policies, and procedures.

• Confidentiality: All individuals must respect the confidentiality of sensitive information acquired during the course of their work. This includes personal information of individuals, proprietary business information, and any other confidential data entrusted to the Organisation.

• Compliance with Laws and Regulations: All individuals must comply with all relevant local, national, and international laws, regulations, and industry standards applicable to their roles and the Organisation's activities.

• Avoiding Conflicts of Interest: All individuals must avoid situations where their personal interests conflict with their duties and responsibilities to the Organisation. Conflicts of interest should be disclosed promptly to appropriate parties for resolution.

4. Professional Conduct

• Respect for Authority and Teamwork: Individuals must respect the Organisational structure and cooperate with others in a spirit of teamwork, aiming for collective success. Staff must be respectful of decisions made by managers and leaders, while constructively offering feedback or suggestions for improvement.

• Use of Organisation Resources: Individuals must use the Organisation’s resources (financial, human, technological, or otherwise) responsibly and for their intended purposes. Misuse or misallocation of resources is prohibited.

• Appropriate Communication: All individuals must communicate in a professional and respectful manner, both internally and externally. Any form of defamatory, abusive, or harmful communication is prohibited.

5. Personal Behaviour

• Workplace Conduct: All individuals are expected to maintain professional conduct in the workplace and other environments related to the Organisation. Personal behaviour should reflect the Organisation’s values and promote a positive work environment.

• Substance Use: The use of illegal drugs, alcohol, or any other substance that impairs an individual’s ability to perform their duties is strictly prohibited in the workplace. The Organisation also expects Staff to behave responsibly regarding substance use during work-related events.

• Health and Safety: All individuals must adhere to health and safety regulations and practices to ensure their own safety and the safety of others while on Organisation premises or engaged in Organisation-related activities.

6. Ethical Business Practices

• Anti-Bribery and Corruption: The Organisation has a zero-tolerance approach to bribery and corruption. Individuals must not offer, request, or accept bribes, kickbacks, or any other form of improper inducements in any business dealings.

• Fair Competition: All individuals must engage in fair competition and refrain from anti-competitive practices. This includes not sharing confidential or proprietary information with competitors and avoiding any activities that could harm the Organisation’s reputation.

• Environmental Responsibility: The Organisation is committed to sustainability and minimizing its environmental impact. Individuals must comply with all environmental laws and regulations and take practical steps to reduce waste, conserve energy, and operate sustainably.

7. Reporting Misconduct

• Duty to Report: All individuals have a duty to report any violations of this Code or any concerns related to unethical or illegal conduct. Reports can be made through confidential channels, including but not limited to a designated hotline, email, or supervisor.

• Whistleblower Protection: The Organisation will protect individuals who report violations of this Code in good faith from retaliation. Whistleblowers will be protected from any form of retaliation, discrimination, or disadvantage as a result of their report.

8. Disciplinary Action

Failure to comply with the provisions of this Code may result in disciplinary action, including but not limited to:

• Verbal or written warnings

• Suspension or termination of employment or contracts

• Legal action, where applicable

The Organisation reserves the right to take appropriate action based on the severity of the violation and in accordance with relevant laws and regulations.

9. Compliance and Acknowledgment

• Training: All Staff will receive regular training on the Code of Conduct, as well as guidance on how to identify and report violations. This training will be incorporated into the induction process for new employees and as part of ongoing professional development.

• Acknowledgment: All individuals are required to acknowledge receipt and understanding of this Code of Conduct upon their commencement of employment or engagement with the Organisation and annually thereafter. The acknowledgment confirms their commitment to adhering to the provisions of the Code.

10. Amendments

This Code may be reviewed and amended periodically to ensure its relevance and effectiveness. All amendments will be communicated to the individuals covered by this Code, and acknowledgment of any changes will be required.

This Code of Conduct reflects the Organisation's commitment to maintaining a high standard of ethical behaviour and professional integrity. All individuals associated with the Organisation are expected to adhere to these standards, and the Organisation will take appropriate action to address any violations.