Code of Conduct

As staff and volunteers at Citizens Advice Braintree and South Essex, we are accountable for the ways in which we work.  We have a duty to keep ourselves and others safe, and following our Safeguarding policy.  (A copy of this policy is available upon request).  This is achieved by maintaining a respectful, caring and professional approach to work and volunteering, and by upholding the charity’s values.

We do this by:

• Being friendly, kind and courteous at all times
• Being reliable and punctual
• Acting in a timely manner to recognise and support those who depend on us for our contribution
• Treating everyone with dignity and respect regardless of age, sex, disability, racial heritage, religious belief, sexual orientation, appearance, cultural background, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity
• Planning and organising our work and the workplace, to minimise risks to health, safety and wellbeing and limit risks to the organisation
• Creating and maintaining a non-defensive, non-judgemental, collaborative and open culture in which feedback can be shared  and issues and concerns be discussed
• Constructively challenging unacceptable behaviour, assumptions and stereotyping
• Seeking support and guidance when we need it, for ourselves and others

We do not:

• Tolerate abuse of trust and power including bullying, intimidation, harassment, discrimination or victimisation in any of our activities
• Use language, make suggestions or offer advice which is inappropriate, abusive, sexually provocative, demeaning or culturally inappropriate
• Allow or engage in any kind of physical contact that is inappropriate or potentially abusive