This document is classified as Unclassified
It is important for us to ensure that the conduct of all people connected to our work is in keeping with Shaw Trust’s beliefs, values and aims.
This Volunteer Code of Conduct gives you guidance on the standards by which you are expected to behave as a volunteer with Shaw Trust. The Code applies to all volunteers associated with Shaw Trust, regardless of location or role and, in accepting your volunteer position, you undertake to behave in line with the requirements of this Code, the Volunteering Policy and all other relevant policies.
The Code is designed for your guidance and protection. A breach may result in disciplinary action including the withdrawal of your invitation to volunteer.
The Code reflects Shaw Trust values. In volunteering for Shaw Trust, we expect you to uphold these values as a representative of the organisation.
The Volunteer Code of Conduct supplements and defers to the Shaw Trust Code of Conduct which also applies to volunteers.
As a Shaw Trust volunteer, I will:
1. Uphold the integrity and reputation of Shaw Trust by ensuring that my conduct is demonstrably consistent with Shaw Trust’s values and standards.
- I will not work under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances, or use, or be in possession of, illegal substances on Shaw Trust premises or vehicles.
- I will adhere to reasonable attendance and timekeeping expectations and fulfil my volunteering tasks in a timely and reliable manner. If absence or delay is expected, I will notify a key contact as soon as reasonably possible.
- I will report any breaches of this Code or other policies by myself or others in a timely manner including following Shaw Trust Whistleblowing procedures where appropriate.
2. Treat all people with respect and dignity and challenge any form of harassment, discrimination, intimidation, exploitation or abuse.
- When carrying out activities/services for Shaw Trust as a volunteer I understand that it is important not to abuse my own position including for personal gain.
- I will respect all peoples’ rights and I will contribute to an environment of mutual respect, integrity, dignity and non-discrimination.
- I will ensure that my relationships and behaviour in (or related to) my role are not exploitative, abusive or corrupt in any way.
- I will report any safeguarding concerns in a timely manner, in line with the safeguarding training and policies.
- I will undergo any training required and will adhere to Shaw Trust’s Safeguarding Policies, Confidentiality Policies, and all other relevant policies and procedures.
3. Perform my duties and conduct my private life in a manner that avoids possible conflicts of interest with the work of Shaw Trust.
- I will declare any financial, personal, family (or close relationship) interest in matters which may impact on the work of Shaw Trust.
- I will reject monetary gifts or inappropriate gifts which have been offered to me as a result of my association with Shaw Trust and/or the volunteer role I have.
- I will act against any form of corruption and not offer, promise, give or accept any bribes.
- I will not solicit or accept gifts or loans from colleagues, participants, customers, donors, or other parties I have met through my role at Shaw Trust.
4. Be responsible for the use of information, contacts, equipment, money and resources to which I have access personally and as a volunteer.
- When handling information, I will follow relevant policies including data protection policies, General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR), guidelines, and training.
- I will not share personal information about myself or others that is inappropriate or may put myself or others at risk.
- I will seek authorisation before communicating externally in Shaw Trust’s name (for example, speaking to media on behalf of Shaw Trust).
- I will support my volunteer coordinator/ point of contact at Shaw Trust to keep complete and accurate records about me and my volunteering.
- I will report any concerns regarding the use of information, equipment and resources to Shaw Trust.
5. Protect the health, safety, security and welfare of all Shaw Trust colleagues (including volunteers) and contractors.
- I will behave in such a way as to avoid any unnecessary risk to the safety, health and welfare of myself and others, including participants, partner organisations, and those using Shaw Trust’s services.
- I will report any concerns I have regarding health and safety to Shaw Trust. Where there is a risk to life, I will contact relevant authorities as appropriate.
- I will not destroy, tamper with, or conceal any evidence of possible misconduct or policy breaches.
- I will fully support any internal investigations into wrongdoing and pass on any relevant information, evidence, or concerns.
6. Promote human rights, protect the environment and oppose criminal or unethical activities.
- I will contribute to preventing all forms of criminal or unethical activities.
- I will inform Shaw Trust of any unspent criminal convictions I have had.
- Where Shaw Trust has a legitimate interest, I will declare changes to my name (for example, if on the Sex Offenders Register known by a different name).
- I will also notify Shaw Trust if I face any criminal charges during my time as a volunteer that may be relevant to my role.
Related Documents
This document defers to and should be read in conjunction with all Shaw Trust policies such as, but not limited to, Code of Conduct, Dignity at Work policy, Diversity and Inclusion policy, Group Safeguarding policy, Shaw Trust Safeguarding policy, Dress Code policy, Disciplinary policy, Grievance policy Anti-bribery, Gifts and Hospitality policy , Health and safety policy, Information security policies, social media usage policy, Working with the Media policy.
Document Owner: Volunteering Lead
Document Date: V3 18/07/2024