Child protection policy

Step 8: Write a Code of Conduct

Children should experience a safe, positive and encouraging atmosphere. Your organisation should develop a ‘Code of Conduct’ that defines acceptable and unacceptable behaviour towards children. All staff should agree to and live by the Code of Conduct when they are employed and start their job.

Many organisations will already be familiar with (and may have adopted) the United Nations IASC (Inter-Agency Standing Committee) Task Force Core Principles and Code of Conduct. You can download a template with this Code of Conduct below.

You should ensure your Code of Conduct covers the following information:

• what is appropriate behaviour of adults with children, both at work and in the community
• information that makes it clear that discrimination, prejudice, or oppressive behaviour or language in relation to any of the following are not acceptable: race, culture, age, gender, disability, religion, sexuality or political views
• where relevant, there are guidelines on intimate care of disabled children or young people, including advice on the proper ways of touching
• guidelines for residential care workers and carers of disabled children.

template code of conduct