Code of Conduct and Ethics

By: fulfilling the purpose of championing better work and working lives for current and future generations. By promoting people-centred practice, developing people, being the employee experience champion, supporting the health, education and welfare of those in the work environment. 

1. Develop and champion policies and procedures that foster fair, consistent and equitable treatment for all. 
2. Champion and demonstrate employment and business practices that promote sensitivity for the customs, practices, culture and personal beliefs and rights of others. Whilst upholding and promoting equal opportunity, diversity, inclusion and dignity.
3. Do not bully, harass, abuse, discriminate, victimise, or conduct offensive behaviour in the work environment. 
4. Ensure those working for you, have the appropriate level of competence, supervision and support and have the opportunity to develop their skills and knowledge. 
5. Encourage and facilitate a range of speakup options beyond whistleblowing, across your organisation. To understand the views, concerns and needs of those speaking up; supporting them and protecting them from reprisals or adverse treatment.
6. Speak up about issues and concerns in the workplace. 

By: being socially responsible; supporting future organisational needs; helping to improve the communities in which you live and work. 

1. Evidence that stakeholders, including the wider community have been considered and (where relevant) consulted in your practice, decisions and actions. 
2. Uphold all compliance, regulatory and legal obligations in the country(ies) in which you practice. Role-model more advanced developments where possible, including acting beyond the minimum legal requirements. 
3. Act in accordance with the interests of the employer/client except where professional, ethical or legal duties require otherwise. 
4. Develop policies and practices under which people are treated with courtesy, dignity and respect. Where possible go beyond the minimum standards of treatment required under employment laws/regulation.
5. Comply with prevailing requirements of copyright, intellectual property, patents, licensing, piracy, plagiarism, trade secrets, privacy rights and appropriation. Respect the rights of others and prevent misuse of the CIPD logo. 

By: applying sound judgement; being honest; not allowing personal interest to undermine your objectivity and protecting the reputation of the profession. 

1. Role-model high standards of ethical conduct, honesty, professional and personal integrity.
2. Always act in a way which supports and upholds the standards, reputation, values and virtues of the profession. Do not act in a way which might discredit the profession, the CIPD or other members.
3. Establish, maintain and develop professional relationships based on mutual confidence, trust and respect. 
4. Do not misuse your professional position for personal, material or financial gain or the appearance of such.
5. Ensure that your professional judgement is not compromised nor could be perceived as being compromised because of bias, or the undue influence of others.
6. Identify potential, apparent and actual conflicts of interest and disclose these to the appropriate person/stakeholder. If an action or transaction could be perceived as creating a conflict of interest, carefully consider whether it is proper to act in all the circumstances. Demonstrate and evidence independence and distinction between personal and professional capacity.

By: providing high standards of competence and service; committing to the continuing development of your skills, knowledge and experience. 

1. Develop your professional knowledge, skills and competence through curiosity, seeking feedback, reflection, continuing professional development, mentorship and exposure to growth opportunities. Identify and address any gaps; demonstrate your adherence to the CIPD’s continuing professional development policy.
2. Provide an insightful, up-to-date and evidencebased service. Manage commitments effectively and take action where deadlines and obligations are at risk of not being met, particularly where external or personal factors may disrupt service delivery.
3. Where you are operating outside of your expertise, scope of knowledge or ability – seek advice and support, or refer work in areas outside of your (personal) competence to a trusted third party. 
4. Safeguard all restricted, confidential, commercially sensitive and personal data. Do not use it for personal advantage or to the benefit or detriment of third parties. 

By: taking responsibility for your actions; considering your impact on others; showing courage in your approach to difficult decisions and ethical dilemmas. 

1. Take action to ensure that other Members do not breach or cause a breach of this Code. If you become aware of a potential breach, you must report this to the CIPD.
2. Take all reasonable steps to resolve disputes and complaints in a fair, timely and professional manner. Never allow a complaint to affect the standard of behaviour or professionalism shown to those who raise concerns, engage authentically and respectfully. 
3. Take responsibility for your professional actions and decisions. Rectify issues and take all reasonable steps to mitigate loss or harm as soon as possible. Inform those affected of the potential impact.
4. Co-operate with the CIPD, any process, investigations or enquiries. Approach any subsequent hearings in an open, honest and transparent manner as a witness or respondent. Identify and preserve relevant information. 
5. Comply with all reasonable requests for information. 
6. Do not misrepresent your membership status, including the level of membership held.
7. Ensure adequate liability insurance is held and maintained, and terms of reference are agreed for all work undertaken.
8. Demonstrate professionalism and high standards of conduct in your professional and private communications, emails and online activities (including social media).