CODE OF PRACTICE
Preface:
In order to maintain confidence in our doctrine and
canons, the governing body (The Archbishop’s Council) has adopted a code of
conduct that all OEC members and Clergy are expected to comply with in order to
maintain appropriate standards of conduct. Upon appointment or admission to or
continuation in, all OEC members are required to confirm their acceptance of,
and commitment to the OEC Code of Conduct.
Code of conduct:
(i)
Responsibilities for members of
the OEC Clergy
Ø
Members
are required to adhere to the Canons of the Open Episcopal Church (OEC).
Ø
To strive
to do no harm (physically, mentally, or spiritually) to others.
Ø
To strive
to inspire and uplift others in a positive manner (public and colleagues)
Ø
Members
have an obligation to ensure that they understand the responsibilities that are
required of them in their individual office within the body of the OEC.
Ø
Members
of the OEC have a duty and responsibility to ensure that all their decisions,
actions, and behaviour both publically and privately are taken in the best
interests of the OEC.
Ø
To work
as a servant of God in the community and in the OEC.
Ø Members of the OEC have a
responsibility to demonstrate respect, and dignity for others acknowledging and
valuing diversity and conducting themselves in a non-discriminatory manner at
all times.
Ø To observe and uphold good
working principles including:
Ø Trust and confidentiality between
colleagues; being honest and open; acting with integrity and respect for one
and all.
Ø Good communication between members
including the sharing of information (except where confidentiality has been
specifically requested with a colleague or member of the public).
Ø Members of the OEC should listen
to the views of others (both the public and colleagues).
Ø Members should be allowed to have
ideas and express creativity and to be able to discuss these and to be open to
the ideas of others.
Ø To aspire to accept
responsibility and achieve goals
Ø To keep an awareness of world
news and developments especially where these need to be acknowledged in
Ministry.
Ø To seek advice and help from the
Archbishop and/or Bishops in the event that an individual meets a situation
where they feel out of their depth or need additional input from others.
Ø Confidentiality will be respected
in situations where an individual has requested confidentiality. However, such
confidentiality will not be given where cases of criminal behaviour or child
abuse is involved
Ø To adopt an open style of
learning always seeking to improve and grow.
Ø Collaboration with colleagues in
discussion and projects where appropriate to individuals, and to work
constructively with others to achieve goals and objectives, where appropriate.
Ø To ensure that OEC members and
clergy are aware that they will be held accountable in law for actions of a
criminal nature and are subject to civil and common laws in the UK or the laws
of the country in which they are situated.
Ø When a cleric’s licence has been
withdrawn or they have been suspended or disciplined, the Archbishop’s Council of
the OEC may inform other agencies and official bodies to protect the public.
Such clerics will continue to be offered support and counsel from the OEC.
Ø Clerics must undergo appropriate
safeguarding training and must provide evidence of the training to the
Archbishop’s Council.
(ii) OEC Corporate responsibilities
1.
To
adhere to the Canons of the OEC.
2.
To ensure that the OEC complies with the relevant rules/laws regarding
volunteers, equalities, human rights, health and safety, data protection and
freedom of information legislation.
The code of conduct of the OEC is based on the seven principles identified by the Nolan
Committee in its first report on standards in public life in May 1995 (the
Nolan principles):REFERENCE http://www.archive.official-documents.co.uk/document/parlment/nolan/nolan.htm
1.
“Selflessness:
holders of public office should take decisions solely in terms of the public
interest. They should not do so in order to gain financial or other material
benefits for themselves, their family, or their friends.
2.
Integrity: holders of public office should not place themselves under
any financial or other obligation to outside individuals or organisations that
might influence them in the performance of their official duties.
3.
Objectivity: in carrying out public business, including making public
appointments, awarding contracts, or recommending individuals for awards or
benefits, holders of public office should make choices on merit.
4.
Accountability: holders of public office are accountable for their
decisions and actions to the public and must submit themselves to whatever
scrutiny is appropriate to their office.
5.
Openness: holders of public office should be as open as possible about
all the decisions and actions they take. They should give reasons for their
decisions and restrict information only when the wider public interest clearly
demands.
6.
Honesty: holders of public office have a duty to declare any private
interests relating to their public duties and to take steps to resolve any
conflicts arising in a way that protects the public interest.
7.
Leadership: holders of public office should promote and support these
principles by leadership and example.”