Download RCN Code of Conduct: Guiding Members' Behaviour and Ethics and more Study notes Nursing in PDF only on Docsity! RCN Code of Conduct - Draft This Code of Conduct provides guidance on the expected behaviour of members of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) and sets out the standards of conduct that support our values in the work that we do. This code applies to all members of the RCN The RCN are committed to creating a culture that is inclusive of all members. Members must conduct themselves so as to maintain the individual and collective reputation of the RCN and its members. The RCN welcomes open debate and free exchange of ideas: where every member feels able to contribute, assured that their points of view will be valued and differences of opinion will be respected. The code ensures that there is parity between staff and members, with each being held to an equitable standard of conduct. Members are expected to maintain a high standard of personal conduct and to treat staff and other members with respect. It is the responsibility of all RCN members to promote positive behaviours and to challenge poor behaviours. This code of conduct will not be applied unreasonably or disproportionately. The RCN will support members and staff who challenge poor conduct and behaviours. Every RCN member, including those elected into a representative or governance role is bound by this code of conduct when acting on behalf of the RCN. All members must comply with relevant RCN policies including the expenses policy. In the event of this Code of Conduct being breached, incidents will be handled in accordance with The RCN Member Resolution Policy Principles of behaviour for members elected to a governance role, in addition to those above are: Be Respectful to others Everyone has the right to contribute and should be encouraged to do so, every contribution is valued. Everyone should ensure that work is typically undertaken in a constructive manner and there is a clear commitment on the part of the RCN to ensuring, that everyone is at all times treated with dignity, courtesy and respect. Encourage others to express opinions and ideas. Encouraging inclusive team working in which everyone’s unique contribution is valued and recognised; where every individual is able to contribute effectively to realise their full potential with dignity and respect. Listen to one another and do not interrupt, be open to others’ ideas and opinions. See things from the point of view of others and be prepared to change your mind, consider the time, place and impact on others. Use other member’s ideas to change or improve work. Debate openly and challenge constructively, but support democratic decisions in public. Maintain confidentiality at all times. Create a culture where individuals feel confident and comfortable in raising any concerns regarding offensive or unacceptable behaviours that they have directly experienced or witnessed. Be Representative Where possible, seek the views of those you represent on the issues that affect them, sharing relevant information and feedback any outcomes, which are not confidential to your constituents. Represent constituents’ views at meetings and when voting. Act in the best interests of members. Recognise positive behaviours, but challenge disrespectful and inappropriate behaviours. Be welcoming. Be Accountable Members must act within the standing orders and regulations of the Royal College of Nursing Royal Charter and promote the success of the College for the benefit of its members in exercising reasonable care, skill and diligence in all their duties. Elected members with the agreed support of their employers (when appropriate) should be able to allocate sufficient time to the College to enable them to discharge their responsibilities effectively, as described in the role profile for the position. Members should also be aware of any potential conflict of interest and identify the risk that their ability to apply judgement could be influenced by a secondary interest. Members are required to complete and regularly update the register of interests. Where a potential conflict of interest exists, members must declare this before a debate or a decision is made. This may limit their participation in debate and/or decision-making.
