This Code of Conduct sets out standards of behaviour The Boys’ Brigade expects from all of our leaders. The code aims to help us protect children and young people from harm and to reduce situations where misunderstandings, concerns or allegations may occur.
Leaders are responsible for making sure they have read, understood, and agree to follow the code of conduct, and that they understand the consequences of unacceptable or inappropriate behaviour and poor practice.
The Role of Volunteer Leaders
As a leader in The Boys’ Brigade, you have a responsibility to prioritise the welfare of children and young people and ensure that we provide an environment that is safe from harm.
In your role at The Boys’ Brigade, you are acting in a position of authority and influence and have a duty of care towards the children and young people you work with. You will be seen as a role model and are expected to always act appropriately and recognise and report any behaviour that causes concern.
As a leader in The Boys’ Brigade YOU MUST:
create an environment where children, young people and adults feel safe and are able to talk about any concerns they have.
avoid compromising situations or opportunities that give rise to misunderstandings or allegations. Actions can be misinterpreted no matter how well intended.
As a leader in The Boys’ Brigade YOU MUST NOT:
allow concerns or allegations to go unreported
develop inappropriate relationships with children and young people.
allow or take any unnecessary risk which could put children and young people or adults at risk of harm.
act in any way that is or can be perceived as threatening, intrusive or harmful, or patronises or belittles children and young people
do not join in physical contact games or activities with children and young people, this will avoid unnecessary accidents, injuries or inappropriate physical contact.
engage in or permit abusive peer activities such as initiation ceremonies and bullying
have any sexual contact with children or young people
develop inappropriate physical, verbal, emotional or spiritual interaction with children & young people
make sarcastic, insensitive, derogatory or sexually suggestive comments or gestures to or in front of children and young people
allow or arrange for any BB activities for children and young people to take place in your home or a private dwelling
Upholding this Code of Conduct
You must always follow this code of conduct and never rely on your reputation or that of The Boys’ Brigade to protect you.
If you have behaved inappropriately, you will be subject to an investigation. Depending on the seriousness of the situation, your membership may be withdrawn. We may be required to make a referral to statutory agencies including the police, local authority child protection services, and vetting and barring services.
If you become aware of any leader engaging in unacceptable conduct (as outlined above) you must report them to safeguarding@boys-brigade.org.uk
Where Safeguarding concerns or allegations arise, you must follow Safeguarding reporting procedures. You can find out more at boys-brigade.org.uk/safeguarding.
Complaints or disputes should be dealt with as outlined in the Complaints Policy at boys-brigade.org.uk/complaints.