Code of Conduct
This code applies to staff/employees, pastors, Local Church Executive Committee (LCEC) members, members of any KYMC ministry/committee and volunteers (each defined as a “designated person”) of Kum Yan Methodist Church (KYMC).
A code of conduct for designated persons defines the standards of behaviour expected of such person in order to ensure that:
- KYMC is effective, open, accountable and reputable;
- Designated persons have productive and supportive relationships with other designated persons and any other persons who interact with the KYMC.
All designated persons should read and comply with this code.
All designated persons should maintain the highest standards of behaviour in the performance of their duties by:
- Fulfilling their role as outlined in their contract of employment, terms of reference, and/or job description (as applicable) to a satisfactory standard;
- Performing their duties to the best of their ability in a safe, efficient and competent way;
- Following KYMC’s policies and procedures as well as any instructions and directions reasonably given to them;
- Acting honestly, responsibly and with integrity;
- Treating others with fairness, equality, dignity and respect;
- Acting in a way that is in line with the purpose and values of KYMC and that enhances the work of KYMC;
- Communicating respectfully and honestly at all times with colleagues and all persons who interact with KYMC;
- Observing safety procedures, including obligations concerning the safety, health and welfare of other people, in line with training provided to them;
- Reporting any health and safety concerns even if it is not within their area of responsibility;
- Raising concerns about possible wrongdoing in the workplace;
- Directing any questions regarding KYMC’s policies, procedures, support or supervision to their line manager/supervisors if unable to answer the question(s);
- Addressing any issues or difficulties about any aspect of their role or how they are managed professionally and respectfully;
- Keeping confidential matters confidential, or disseminating on a restricted/need to basis and reminding recipients the confidentiality obligation;
- Undertaking to comply with the relevant disciplinary consequences as may be determined by the LCEC in the event of a breach of the confidentiality obligation as articulated above;
- Exercising caution and care with any documents, material or devices containing confidential information and, at the end of their employment/term with KYMC, returning any such documents, material or devices in their possession;
- Seeking authorisation before communicating externally on behalf of KYMC;
- Declaring any interests, as soon as practicable, that may conflict with their work or the work of KYMC (e.g. other business interests or employment). For the annual declaration, a nil return is required. If any doubt arises as to what constitutes a conflict of interest, the designated persons may seek guidance from Governance Committee;
- Undertaking relevant training to maintain and improve knowledge, skills and work practices;
- Complying with the Charities Act 1994 (in particular, Sections 28 and 29).