CODE OF CONDUCT POLICY AND PROCEDURE

1. Introduction

1.1 At Bold Cymru, we’re committed to providing high-quality, person-centred support that upholds the rights, dignity, and well-being of the people we support. Our Code of Conduct reflects our commitment to Positive Behaviour Support, trauma-informed care, and active support, doing things with people, not for them.

1.2 This Code of Conduct applies to all staff, including permanent, temporary, and agency workers. It sets clear expectations on professional behaviour, ethics, and responsibilities to ensure the best outcomes for the people we support.

2. Guiding Principles

Promoting rights, dignity, and person-centred support:

• Respecting and upholding the rights, values, beliefs, and wishes of the people we support
• Working in a person-centred way, ensuring individuals have choice and control
• Promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in every aspect of support

Building trust and meaningful professional relationships:

• Being honest, transparent, and trustworthy in all professional interactions
• Communicating openly, accurately, and respectfully
• Supporting individuals to express their views in their preferred format or communication style
• Maintaining confidentiality, only sharing information when appropriate and necessary

Promoting independence and well-being:

• Encouraging and supporting individuals to develop independence, in line with our Active Support model
• Working in partnership with the people we support, families, and professionals
• Taking appropriate action to safeguard individuals from harm
• Respecting and balancing individual rights with responsibilities and risk

Acting with integrity and professionalism:

• Never subjecting the people we support or colleagues to abuse, neglect, or exploitation
• Not forming inappropriate personal relationships with the people we support
• Acting lawfully and reporting concerns about unsafe or unethical practice
• Following policies on gifts, conflicts of interest, and financial transactions

Accountability and continuous learning:

• Adhering to legal, professional, and organisational standards
• Maintaining accurate records and reporting concerns in a timely manner
• Seeking training and development opportunities, including PBM/PBS training
• Cooperating with internal and external investigations when required

3. Communication and Professional Conduct

• Always communicate politely, calmly, and respectfully with colleagues, the people we support, families, and external partners
• Answer telephone calls professionally
• Respond to emails promptly and professionally
• Support an inclusive, collaborative, and positive working environment

4. Safeguarding and Reporting Concerns

• Report any concerns regarding abuse, neglect, or poor practice immediately
• Follow safeguarding procedures and work with relevant authorities when necessary
• Never put yourself or others at unnecessary risk

5. Upholding Public Trust in Social Care

As a member of Bold Cymru, you must respect the rights and choices of the people we support, strive to establish and maintain trust and confidence, promote well-being, independence, and safety, act with integrity and professionalism, and be accountable for your actions.

6. Review and Updates

This policy is reviewed biannually or when there are significant changes in the regulatory landscape or internal processes.