Young Life Australia
Code of Conduct
The Code of Conduct is part of Young Life Australia’s (YLA) commitment to safe emotional and physical environments. It is expected that (hereafter referred to as leaders) act in a caring and compassionate way towards each other and those that YLA serves, particularly those that are most vulnerable. The Code of Conduct outlines the standard of behaviour that is expected of all leaders at YLA.
A CARING COMMUNITY
YLA leaders follow one simple golden rule “Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets.” ~ Matthew 7:12 (NLT). We have a responsibility to look after each other and treat people with respect, care and love. Leaders are in a position of trust and power, and misuse of this authority is unacceptable.
YLA leaders, while engaged in service with YLA:
1. DISCIPLESHIP
- Will demonstrate a personal commitment to being a disciple of Jesus.
2. BEHAVIOUR
- Will act in the best interests of those we serve.
- Will not engage in any emotional, physical or sexually abusive behaviours, including domestic and family violence.
- Will not use offensive language including swear words, sexual connotations or racial or religious slurs.
- Will exercise personal responsibility and accountability if consuming alcohol. Drunkenness is never acceptable.
- Will not use any illegal substances.
- Will use caution when initiating or receiving physical contact with those we serve, including gestures of comfort which may be unwanted or misinterpreted.
- Will act with sexual integrity, including engaging in sexual relations only in the context of biblical marriage.
- Will report concerns of abuse according to the YLA Reporting Procedure.
- Will communicate with respect and honesty, including professional use of electronic communication as per YLA policy.
- Will not take any property belonging to others including intellectual property (copyright).
- Will not behave in any other way that may bring the good standing of YLA in the community into disrepute.
3. FINANCIAL MATTERS
Leaders will have integrity in their financial dealings. Leaders must not seek or accept personal financial gain from their involvement in YLA. This does not apply to the usual wages or salary paid under an employment contract.
4. CONFIDENTIALITY
From time-to-time, vulnerable people may share sensitive information. Confidential information must be handled with care as per the YLA Privacy Policy, so that trust is maintained. With permission, people may be referred to your YL supervisor for specific help. Disclosures relating to situations of abuse or where there are safety concerns for the person or others, should always be reported according to the YLA Reporting Procedure.
5. COMMITMENT TO THE YLA TEAM
Leaders will embrace the vision values, mission, and policies of YLA. YLA leaders are accountable to each other and will encourage each other to abide by the Code of Conduct.
IMPLEMENTATION
Any breach of this code involving a criminal offence may lead to a report being made to the relevant authorities. Any breaches relating to harm, or risk of harm of a child, young person or other vulnerable person will be dealt with under the YLA Misconduct Investigation Procedure. Any other breach will be considered in the best interests of the leader, those we serve, and the good standing of YLA.