Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Purpose
3. Scope
4. Core Values
5. Professional Conduct
6. Respectful Workplace
7. Conflict of Interest
8. Confidentiality
9. Use of Resources
10. Compliance with Laws and Regulations
11. Reporting Violations
12. Disciplinary Actions
13. Review and Amendments
1. Introduction
The Society for Urban & Rural Enlightenment (SURE) is committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct and integrity. This Code of Conduct sets out the principles and guidelines that all employees, volunteers, contractors, and board members are expected to follow.
2. Purpose
The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to:
- Establish clear standards of behavior and professionalism.
- Promote a culture of integrity, accountability, and respect.
- Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
- Foster a positive and productive work environment.
3. Scope
This Code of Conduct applies to all employees, volunteers, contractors, and board members of SURE. It covers all activities, whether conducted within or outside the organization's premises, including online interactions.
4. Core Values
- Integrity: Act with honesty, fairness, and transparency.
- Respect: Treat all individuals with dignity and respect.
- Accountability: Take responsibility for actions and decisions.
- Excellence: Strive for the highest standards of performance and quality.
- Collaboration: Foster a cooperative and inclusive work environment.
5. Professional Conduct
- Work Ethic: Perform duties diligently and efficiently.
- Punctuality: Adhere to work schedules and deadlines.
- Quality: Deliver work of the highest standard.
- Communication: Communicate openly, honestly, and respectfully.
- Appearance: Maintain a professional appearance appropriate to the role.
6. Respectful Workplace
- Non-Discrimination: Do not discriminate based on race, gender, age, religion, disability, or any other protected characteristic.
- Harassment: Zero tolerance for harassment, including sexual harassment, bullying, and any form of unwelcome behavior.
- Inclusivity: Promote an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued.
7. Conflict of Interest
- Disclosure: Disclose any potential or actual conflicts of interest.
- Avoidance: Avoid situations where personal interests conflict with organizational interests.
- Transparency: Ensure decisions are made in the best interest of SURE.
8. Confidentiality
- Information Protection: Safeguard confidential and sensitive information.
- Non-Disclosure: Do not disclose confidential information without proper authorization.
- Data Security: Follow data protection and security protocols.
9. Use of Resources
- Resource Management: Use organizational resources responsibly and efficiently.
- Property: Respect and protect the organization's property and assets.
- Technology: Use technology and communication tools appropriately and ethically.
10. Compliance with Laws and Regulations
- Legal Adherence: Comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and organizational policies.
- Ethical Standards: Uphold ethical standards in all actions and decisions.
- Reporting: Report any legal or regulatory violations promptly.
11. Reporting Violations
- Open Reporting: Encourage reporting of any breaches of the Code of Conduct without fear of retaliation.
- Procedure: Follow established procedures for reporting and addressing violations.
- Confidentiality: Maintain confidentiality of reports and investigations.
12. Disciplinary Actions
- Consequences: Understand that violations of the Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary actions, including termination of employment or association with SURE.
- Fair Process: Ensure a fair and transparent process for investigating and addressing violations.
- Remediation: Take corrective actions to address and prevent future violations.
13. Review and Amendments
- Regular Review: Conduct regular reviews of the Code of Conduct to ensure relevance and effectiveness.
- Updates: Make necessary amendments to reflect changes in laws, regulations, and organizational practices.
- Communication: Communicate any updates or changes to all employees and stakeholders.