This Code outlines expected behaviour of those working with vulnerable people in this Church (“Workers”). Members of the church governing board are also required to sign the Code as they bear responsibility for the culture and policy of the Church. This Code shall be signed by every such person (staff or volunteer) and a copy retained by the Church. 

Purpose

Following this Code will help to protect vulnerable people from abuse and inappropriate behaviour from adults. It will also help maintain standards of behaviour and will reduce the possibility of unfounded allegations of abuse. 

Upholding this code of conduct

Serious breaches may result in a report being made to authorities such as the police, local statutory child protection authorities and/or the C&MA National Office. 

Definitions

A “Vulnerable person” is a child or a person aged 18 years and above who is, or may be, unable to take care of themselves, or is unable to protect themselves against harm or exploitation by reason of age, illness, trauma or disability, or for any other reason.  

Guidelines When Caring for Vulnerable People

• Behave in a manner consistent with your position as a positive role model for those under your care and as a representative of this Church and the Christian and Missionary Alliance. 
• Follow this Church’s policies and procedures pertaining to your area of ministry. 
• Be aware of the safety of vulnerable people and be ready to remove them from harm’s way. 
• Treat vulnerable people with respect.
• Adjust your tone of voice and manner to account for vulnerability.
• Allow vulnerable people to determine the degree of physical contact they have with you.
• Be polite, firm, and self-controlled when dealing with vulnerable people.
• Report to your ministry leader any allegations or suspicions of abuse, or breaches of the Code of Conduct. 
• Alert your ministry leader if you believe a situation exists where a ministry team member of the opposite gender would be more appropriate. 
• If you do need to meet individually with a vulnerable person, ensure that it is done within sight of other adults. 

Behaviours to Avoid

• Do not have any sexual contact or conduct a sexual relationship with a vulnerable person.
• Do not exaggerate or trivialise abuse issues.
• Do not use physical methods to control or discipline a vulnerable person, other than restraint to prevent injury to themselves or others.
• Do not share sexually suggestive or explicit material with a vulnerable person.
• Avoid making derogatory or sexually suggestive comments or gestures.
• Avoid profane language and disrespectful speech.
• Avoid doing things of a personal nature that a vulnerable person can do for themselves.
• Avoid spending time alone with a vulnerable person.