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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Staff Code of Conduct Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to define the professional standards, behaviour, and ethical responsibilities expected from all employees of {{org_field_name}}. The policy is aligned with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) Codes of Practice, Health and Social Care Standards (Scotland), and Care Inspectorate Scotland regulations to ensure that staff act with integrity, professionalism, and accountability in all aspects of their work.

This policy ensures that:

• Employees uphold the highest standards of care, dignity, and respect for the people we support.
• There is a clear and consistent framework for expected behaviours and professional responsibilities.
• Staff operate within legal and regulatory requirements to maintain compliance and best practices.
• Any breaches of conduct are identified, addressed, and managed fairly and effectively.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, agency workers, volunteers, and contractors working within {{org_field_name}}. It covers professional conduct, ethical responsibilities, confidentiality, safeguarding, and accountability in all interactions with the people we support, colleagues, and external stakeholders.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

This Code of Conduct aligns with the following key regulations and standards:

• Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) Codes of Practice – Setting professional expectations for social care workers and employers.
• Health and Social Care Standards (Scotland) – Establishing the rights of people receiving care.
• The Regulation of Care (Scotland) Act 2001 – Governing care service provision.
• The Equality Act 2010 – Promoting fairness, inclusion, and non-discrimination.
• The Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme – Ensuring the suitability of care workers.
• Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 – Protecting staff and people we support.
• General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Data Protection Act 2018 – Governing confidentiality and information handling.

4. Professional Responsibilities

All staff must uphold the following core responsibilities:

4.1 Duty of Care

Employees must prioritise the well-being, safety, and dignity of the people they support by:

• Acting in the best interests of individuals at all times.
• Promoting choice, independence, and person-centred care.
• Preventing harm and ensuring safe, high-quality care delivery.

4.2 Maintaining Dignity, Respect, and Inclusion

Employees must:

• Treat every individual with dignity and respect, valuing diversity and equality.
• Recognise and respond to individual needs, preferences, and cultural backgrounds.
• Challenge discrimination and report any form of abuse or mistreatment.

4.3 Professional Boundaries and Integrity

Employees must maintain clear professional boundaries with the people they support by:

• Ensuring relationships remain professional and not engaging in inappropriate personal relationships.
• Not accepting gifts or favours that could compromise professional judgement.
• Avoiding conflicts of interest and declaring any personal connections.

4.4 Communication and Conduct

Employees must:

• Communicate openly, honestly, and respectfully.
• Use clear and appropriate language with colleagues, people we support, and families.
• Listen actively and respect different opinions while working collaboratively.
• Raise concerns professionally, following reporting procedures.

4.5 Confidentiality and Data Protection

Employees must adhere to GDPR and confidentiality policies by:

• Protecting personal and sensitive information.
• Only sharing information when legally required or with appropriate consent.
• Safeguarding electronic and physical records.

5. Compliance with SSSC Codes of Practice

All employees must adhere to the SSSC Codes of Practice for Social Service Workers, which include:

1. Protecting and promoting the rights and interests of people receiving care.
2. Maintaining trust and confidence through honesty, transparency, and professionalism.
3. Promoting independence while protecting from harm.
4. Respecting the rights of individuals to take risks while ensuring their safety.
5. Being accountable for the quality of work and continuously improving skills.
6. Upholding public trust and confidence in the profession.

6. Safe Working Practices and Safeguarding

Employees must follow all health, safety, and safeguarding procedures to protect individuals and themselves. This includes:

• Reporting safeguarding concerns immediately.
• Following infection control protocols and manual handling procedures.
• Ensuring that all equipment and aids are used safely and correctly.
• Following medication administration policies to prevent errors.

7. Reporting Concerns and Whistleblowing

Employees are encouraged to report any misconduct, abuse, or malpractice through:

• The Whistleblowing Policy.
• Raising concerns with a line manager or designated safeguarding officer.
• Using the Care Inspectorate or SSSC reporting mechanisms when necessary.
• Reporting issues in a confidential, professional, and responsible manner.

Where to report:

1) Verbally to the Registered Manager or Safeguarding Lead

2) Inform the Registered Manager by email: {{org_field_registered_manager_email}}

3) Call the office and inform the Registered Manager or Safeguarding Lead: {{org_field_phone_no}}

4) Out of hours phone number: {{out_of_hours}}

5) Online via our website: {{org_field_website}}

8. Dress Code and Personal Presentation

All employees must maintain a professional appearance in line with organisational expectations. This includes:

• Wearing appropriate uniform or attire as designated by {{org_field_name}}.
• Keeping clothing clean and presentable.
• Maintaining good personal hygiene.
• Wearing identification badges at all times.

9. Use of Social Media and Online Conduct

Employees must use social media responsibly and professionally, ensuring:

• No posting or sharing of confidential information.
• No disrespectful, discriminatory, or offensive content.
• Adherence to company policies regarding digital communication.
• Avoiding friend requests or social media interactions with people receiving care.

10. Accountability and Consequences of Misconduct

Failure to adhere to this Code of Conduct may result in:

• Formal disciplinary action, including written warnings or suspension.
• Referral to the SSSC, impacting professional registration.
• Dismissal for serious breaches, such as abuse or gross misconduct.
• Legal consequences, where applicable.

11. Supporting Staff to Uphold Conduct Standards

To ensure employees can meet these standards, {{org_field_name}} provides:

• Ongoing training on ethics, professional conduct, and safeguarding.
• Regular supervision meetings to discuss conduct and performance.
• Confidential support for employees who face challenges in meeting conduct expectations.
• Clear policies and reporting procedures for raising concerns.

12. Related Policies

This policy should be read alongside:

• Safeguarding and Protection Policy
• Training and Continuing Professional Development Policy
• Whistleblowing Policy
• Data Protection and Confidentiality Policy
• Health and Safety Policy

13. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes in legislation, best practices, or organisational needs. Any amendments will be communicated to all staff and relevant stakeholders.

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Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}}{{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.