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.
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.
Leaders must ensure the relationships they form with children & young people are ALWAYS appropriate, healthy, safe, and positive. Leaders are in a ‘Position of Trust’ and must ensure they maintain and demonstrate clear boundaries that are recognised by children, young people and leaders alike. Read our Position of Trust Guidance.
It is appropriate that the organisation focuses on children & young people, but it is also important that leaders build and maintain positive relationships with fellow leaders, parents/carers and other adults in our communities. Leaders should ensure that activities are accessible and inclusive.
It is important that children & young people are provided with opportunities to shape their programme and make decisions about their participation in activities. Leaders should be aware of the needs and abilities of individual children & young people.
Leaders should always be aware of the environment they are working in and especially take this into consideration when planning activities including events and residentials, in settings they are not familiar with. Due consideration should also be given to the number of leaders and their responsibilities for supervising children & young people.
Ensure there are always at least two registered leaders present during ALL activities with children & young people (one of these leaders must have completed Youth Leader Training). Whilst there are no set ratios for the number of leaders required, it is necessary to fully consider this based on the activity being undertaken. A written risk assessment should be completed for all activities being undertaken. If in exceptional circumstances a situation arises unexpectedly where a leader is left alone with a young person, steps should be taken to remedy the situation promptly. The leader must ensure the circumstances are reported to the Company Captain, the relevant parents and are documented.
Follow our safeguarding procedures, which can be found on our Safeguarding Hub
It is essential that everyone challenges poor practice within the organisation, even when there is a belief that the motives of an individual are well meaning. Unchallenged poor practice can lead to an environment where safeguarding concerns remain unnoticed, and when recognised are not acted upon.
It is important that leaders understand that there must be appropriate boundaries in place when it comes to contact with children and young people.
Leaders MUST be aware of and understand the policies and procedures in place. Read the policy and procedures on our Safeguarding Hub
Whether in a BB setting or your private life, if you become the subject of a criminal investigation or are subject to an enquiry by any child protection services, you must inform BB Headquarters.
Whilst it is not possible to be prescriptive of all the circumstances this could include, the organisation will consider the relevant circumstances on a case-by-case basis.
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.
