Ethics

This Code of Ethics is a brief set of affirmative statements and unifying principles for staff, live-ins, students, and volunteers providing community-based residential services to adults who have an intellectual disability. All individuals working on behalf of Regional Residential Services Society shall at all times adhere to this Code of Ethics.

As an employee, live-in, student, or volunteer of RRSS, I will:

  1. Aspire to the highest possible standard of conduct and honesty.

  2. Strive to be aware of my own belief systems, values, needs, and limitations and the effect of these on the people with whom I work and serve.

  3. Respect and protect human and civil rights, and not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, ethnic background, language, religion, marital status, gender, sexual orientation, age, abilities, socioeconomic status, political affiliation, chronic or life threatening illness.

  4. Notify my immediate Supervisor and/or the Executive Director should any situation arise which affects my ability to provide competent service, or threatens the health or wellbeing of a client or staff, including but not limited to a physical or mental health problem, disability, illness, or conflict of interest.

  5. State an opinion, judgement, or use a clinical diagnosis only if there is a documented assessment, observation or diagnosis to support the opinion, judgement, or diagnosis.

  6. Be an appropriate role model for clients at all times, including but not limited to, exercising proper hygiene and dress.

  7. Ensure that all communication is effective, professional, and consistent with the mission, beliefs, and values of RRSS.

  8. Refrain from using a position of trust with a client to receive special benefits, gain, or gratification for myself.

  9. Never engage in sexual intimacy with clients.

  10. Ensure that the needs of those I serve come first, including the rights of individuals to privacy, respect, confidentiality, and self-determination.

  11. Adhere to any statutory acts, regulations, or by-laws which pertain to the provision of services within RRSS.

  12. Recognize the unique nature of the workplace within RRSS ensuring professionalism and respect in all of my interactions with co-workers and clients.

  13. Commit to excellence in my standard of performance, and recognize the need for ongoing quality training and supervision in my work.

  14. Support my colleagues in their adherence to this Code of Ethics.