In order to support the diocesan policy and procedures it is necessary that the following Code of Conduct be applied as a minimum standard for all those who work with children and young people.

• Children/young people will be treated with courtesy, respect and dignity
• Leaders will always engage with children/young people in an open manner and care will be taken not to show favouritism
• There will be an adequate ratio of leaders to children/young people at all times.
• Leaders should not work alone with children/young people
• Care will be taken to ensure that when working with mixed gender groups leaders of mixed gender will work in pairs
• Leaders will not consume alcohol or smoke while having responsibility for or in the presence of young people who are in their care
• The use of drugs or illegal substances by leaders is strictly prohibited . Under no circumstances should Church personnel give alcohol, tobacco or drugs to children/young people
• Leaders will not be permitted to use inappropriate language or make sexually suggestive comments, either to each other or to children/young people
• Physical contact between children, young people, will be of an appropriate nature at all times. Leaders will not engage in rough play with each other or with children/young people
• Leaders will not undertake any task of a personal nature with children, young people except in the case of medical necessity when the welfare of the children, young people depends on it
• Leaders will not give their personal details to children, young people
• Personal details of children/young people will be held only by the named leader/designated person
• The right to privacy of children/young people will be respected at all times
• Where a Church activity involves the use of computers, an email and internet policy will be put in place
• Permission will be sought from parents/guardians for the taking and use of photographs
• There will be clearly designated leaders within each group with whom the children/young people can speak about their experience and raise any concerns
• The Diocese will have a designated person assigned to whose immediate attention all concerns and or/complaints can be brought
• The designated person will respond promptly to all child protection concerns and liaise with the required civil and Church authorities
• All concerns, complaints will be followed through in a timely and efficient manner in accordance with guidelines
• The diocese will have a specific code of conduct for all away trips including pilgrimages, day trips and incentive events. This code of conduct will be made known to the children/young people as well as to leaders, parents, guardians/carers
• A code of conduct including an anti-bullying policy specific to children/young people will be drawn up in direct consultation with children and young people