About Safe Haven – A Ray of Hope

Code of Behaviour

 

1. Our Shared Responsibility

As an adult working with Safe Haven – A Ray of Hope whether as a staff member or volunteer you have a duty of care to ensure that everyone participating in our activities, particularly children, young people, and vulnerable adults, is protected from harm.

It is the responsibility of each adult to ensure that:

  • Their behaviour is appropriate at all times

  • They observe the rules established for the safety and wellbeing of all participants

  • They follow correct procedures in the event of any suspicion, disclosure, or allegation of abuse

  • They recognise the position of trust in which they are placed

  • They maintain professional, respectful, and appropriate relationships with children, young people, and vulnerable adults in their care

All adults working with Safe Haven must accept and agree to abide by this policy, and to actively implement our safeguarding procedures at all times.

 

2. Meeting Your Responsibilities

To help ensure that:

  • The welfare of the children, young people, and vulnerable adults in your care is safeguarded

  • You avoid compromising situations or risks of misunderstandings or allegations

We expect all adults to follow the Code of Behaviour outlined below.

 

3. Code of Behaviour
DO:

  • Put this code into practice at all times

  • Treat everyone with dignity and respect

  • Set an example you would want others to follow

  • Treat all young people equally – show no favouritism

  • Plan activities with more than one adult present, or at least within sight and hearing of others

  • Follow recommended adult-to-child ratios

  • Respect each individual’s right to privacy

  • Avoid inappropriate situations in relationships of trust (e.g., sexual contact with a young person or vulnerable adult, even if over the age of consent)

  • Maintain separate sleeping areas for children, young people, and adults during overnight activities

  • Allow children, young people, or vulnerable adults to express concerns

  • Encourage others to challenge inappropriate behaviour

  • Avoid becoming drawn into attention-seeking behaviours, e.g. tantrums or crushes

  • Follow Safe Haven’s no alcohol policy during activities

  • Ensure everyone is aware of safeguarding procedures

  • Remain professional during sensitive situations such as dealing with bullying, bereavement, or abuse

  • Keep colleagues informed of your location and activities

  • Be aware that even well-intentioned actions can be misunderstood

  • Take all allegations or concerns seriously and report them immediately

DO NOT:

  • Trivialise abuse in any form

  • Form inappropriate or exploitative relationships with children, young people, or vulnerable adults

  • Permit or ignore bullying, hazing, or initiation practices

  • Engage in inappropriate physical, verbal, or sexual behaviour

  • Play physical contact games with children or vulnerable adults

  • Make suggestive comments, even as a joke

  • Use inappropriate or offensive language, in writing, speaking, or online

  • Ignore or fail to report concerns or allegations of abuse

  • Rely solely on your reputation or good name to protect you

 

4. Final Note

By following this Code of Behaviour, you are helping to create a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment at Safe Haven – A Ray of Hope.

If you have any doubts, concerns, or questions, you must speak to your line manager or the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) immediately.