Code of Conduct Policy

CODE OF CONDUCT

Rutland Street Church

For Volunteers and Leaders

Document Owner Elders of Rutland Street Church
Applies To All volunteers and leaders of Rutland Street Church
Adopted By [Names of elders]
Date Adopted [DD Month YYYY]
Review Date [DD Month YYYY — annually]

1. Introduction

This Code of Conduct sets out the standards of behaviour we expect from everyone who serves in a leadership or volunteer role at Rutland Street Church. It's not a list of rules designed to restrict — it's a shared statement of who we want to be as a community of people who take following Jesus seriously.

By agreeing to serve here, you're agreeing to uphold these standards — not perfectly, but genuinely.

2. Integrity

  • Act honestly in all dealings, whether anyone is watching or not
  • Handle church resources — money, property, information — with care and transparency
  • Declare any conflict of interest before a decision is made that involves you
  • Do not take church property or resources for personal use

3. Relationships

  • Treat everyone — attenders, visitors, children, other volunteers — with respect and dignity
  • Maintain appropriate boundaries in all ministry and pastoral relationships
  • Resolve conflict directly and respectfully — not through gossip, criticism of others behind their backs, or social media
  • Do not pursue romantic relationships with people you have significant ministry influence over

4. Children and Young People

  • Comply fully with the Child Protection Policy at all times — no exceptions
  • Never be alone with a child where you cannot be seen by others
  • Never share children's personal details or images on social media without written parental consent
  • Never communicate privately with a child or young person through personal phone or social media accounts

5. Confidentiality

  • Keep personal and pastoral information shared with you in confidence
  • Do not share prayer requests or sensitive personal information beyond those who genuinely need to know
  • If you receive information that suggests someone is at risk of harm, you have an obligation to report it — speak to an elder immediately

6. Online and Social Media

  • Represent Rutland Street Church with care and respect online
  • Do not post content that embarrasses the church or contradicts its values
  • Do not use personal social media to conduct ministry with children or young people

7. If This Code Is Breached

If a volunteer or leader acts contrary to this Code, the elders will respond pastorally and, where necessary, with appropriate accountability. Depending on the seriousness, this may include a conversation, a period of stepping back, or removal from ministry. Our goal is always restoration where possible — and the protection of our community.

8. Acknowledgement

By signing below, I confirm that I have read, understood, and agree to abide by this Code of Conduct as a volunteer or leader of Rutland Street Church.

Full Name: ________________________________

Role: ________________________________

Signature: ________________________________ Date: ____________________

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