1. Purpose

This Code of Conduct sets out the standards of behaviour, integrity, and responsibility expected of all members and volunteers of Forces & Families United CIC (“FFU”).

Its purpose is to:

• Protect members, volunteers, beneficiaries, and the public

• Promote a safe, respectful, inclusive environment

• Prevent harm, misuse of influence, or abuse of process

• Safeguard FFU’s reputation, values, and legal standing

This Code applies equally to in-person, written, digital, and online conduct.

2. Scope

This Code applies to:

• All members

• All volunteers (including session helpers, peer supporters, event volunteers)

• Anyone representing FFU in any capacity

It applies to conduct:

• During FFU activities, services, or events

• In FFU premises or online spaces

• Via email, messaging apps, or social media

• Outside FFU activity where FFU’s reputation, safety, trust, or beneficiaries may be affected

3. Core Behavioural Principles

All members and volunteers must act with:

• Respect – dignity, fairness, and courtesy

• Integrity – honesty, accountability, transparency

• Safety – safeguarding and well-being first

• Boundaries – understanding role limits and authority

• Responsibility – considering impact, not just intent

4. Expected Standards of Conduct

Members and volunteers must:

• Treat others with kindness, courtesy, and professionalism

• Communicate respectfully, even during disagreement

• Follow FFU policies, procedures, and guidance

• Respect confidentiality and data protection at all times

• Maintain appropriate personal and professional boundaries

• Act in a way that upholds FFU’s values and public trust

• Take responsibility for their behaviour and its impact

5. Representation & Authority

Members and volunteers must:

• Not represent themselves as speaking on behalf of FFU unless formally authorised

• Not offer, advertise, or deliver welfare, advocacy, or support services under FFU’s name without written approval

• Not use FFU branding, name, or platforms for personal causes, disputes, or opinions

6. Prohibited Conduct

The following behaviour is unacceptable and may result in disciplinary action:

6.1 Abuse, Harassment & Discrimination

• Bullying, harassment, intimidation, or victimisation

• Aggressive, threatening, or demeaning language

• Discriminatory behaviour of any kind

6.2 Defamatory & Harmful Behaviour

• False or unsubstantiated statements presented as fact

• Attacks on a person’s character, integrity, mental health, sobriety, competence, or motives

• Spreading rumours, speculation, or implied allegations

• Encouraging mistrust, fear, or exclusion

6.3 Misuse of Influence

• Using lived experience, popularity, or informal status to dominate or silence others

• Applying pressure to staff, volunteers, or members

• Undermining decisions, safeguarding actions, or fair processes

6.4 Online & Digital Misconduct

• Abusive or defamatory posts, messages, or comments

• Sharing screenshots or private communications without consent

• Using FFU platforms to pursue personal grievances

• Presenting personal views as FFU’s position

Impact outweighs intent.
“I didn’t mean it that way” does not negate harm caused.

7. Safeguarding Responsibilities

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

Members and volunteers must:

• Follow FFU’s Safeguarding Policy at all times

• Report safeguarding concerns immediately

• Never investigate concerns themselves

• Respect safeguarding decisions made to protect others

Safeguarding obligations override personal relationships, status, or length of involvement.

8. Confidentiality & Data Protection

Members and volunteers must:

• Respect confidentiality at all times

• Protect personal and sensitive information

• Share information only through authorised FFU channels

Breaches of confidentiality may be treated as serious or gross misconduct.

9. Health, Safety & Use of Resources

Members and volunteers must:

• Follow health and safety guidance

• Not place themselves or others at risk

• Use FFU premises, equipment, and resources responsibly

• Report hazards, incidents, or damage immediately

10. Raising Concerns & Whistleblowing

Members and volunteers have the right to raise concerns safely and without retaliation via:

• Complaints Procedure

• Safeguarding processes

• Whistleblowing Policy

Concerns raised in good faith will be supported.
Malicious or knowingly false allegations may result in disciplinary action.

11. Breaches & Disciplinary Action

Breaches of this Code may result in:

• Informal guidance or verbal warning

• Written warning

• Restriction, suspension, or removal

• Termination of membership or volunteering

Serious or gross misconduct may result in immediate removal.

12. Higher Standards

Where a member or volunteer holds additional responsibility (e.g. senior volunteer, session lead), breaches will be assessed with greater accountability, in line with FFU’s Director & Manager Code of Conduct.

13. Acceptance

All members and volunteers are expected to:

• Familiarise themselves with this Code

• Adhere to it at all times

• Acknowledge that breach may result in action