YSPN’s Code of Conduct

Volunteer Code of Conduct

 

For Young Sikh Professionals Network (YSPN)

 

1. Purpose

This Code of Conduct outlines the standards of behaviour expected of all volunteers engaged with YSPN (Volunteers).

Volunteers agree to comply with the Code at all times commencing on the date of their engagement with YSPN.     

By participating in the organisation’s activities, volunteers also agree to abide by this Code and to uphold the integrity and values of YSPN at all times.

 

2. General Conduct

Volunteers must, at all times:

1. Act with honesty, integrity, and respect toward all individuals both within YSPN and externally, when representing YSPN

2. Support an inclusive and welcoming environment, free from discrimination or hostility.

3. Represent YSPN positively and professionally at all times.

 

3. Anti-Harassment and Discrimination

 

YSPN maintains a zero-tolerance policy at all times, for any form of harassment, discrimination, or bullying.

 

4. Sexual Harassment

Volunteers must maintain professional boundaries and treat all others with dignity and respect. Sexual harassment, whether verbal, physical, written, or digital, is strictly prohibited.

Sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to:

1. Unwelcome sexual advances or flirtation, including suggestive comments, gestures, or invitation

2. Sending inappropriate, sexually explicit, or suggestive messages via text, email, social media, or any digital platform.  Inappropriate digital communication includes persistent or suggestive private messages, is considered harassment regardless of the platform used and will not be tolerated by YSPN.

3. Repeated personal or romantic attention after it has been discouraged or ignored

4. Displaying or sharing sexually explicit or offensive images, memes, or jokes

5. Making comments about someone’s appearance, body, or sexuality in a way that is objectifying, inappropriate, or unwelcome

6. Making sexual innuendos or lewd remarks, even if intended as humour

7. Any attempt to use one’s position within the organisation to pursue personal or sexual relationships

 

5. Bullying and Abusive Conduct

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Bullying includes verbal, physical, or psychological abuse intended to intimidate, belittle, or harm another person. This includes:

1. Insults or demeaning language;

2. Threats or aggressive behaviour

3. Spreading false information or gossip

4. Social exclusion or deliberate isolation

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YSPN strictly prohibits all forms of bullying and abusive conduct

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6. Conflict of Interest and Personal Gain

Volunteers must not:

1. Use their role or affiliation with YSPN for personal, commercial, or financial gain

2. Sell personal business products/services at or through YSPN events, networks, or digital platform without written consent from the Chair. 

3. Promote, advertise, or recruit for any multi-level marketing (MLM) or direct selling schemes in any form, during conversations, through materials, or via any YSPN events or communication channels. 

4. Solicit donations, memberships, or services for external causes without written consent from the Chair

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7. Confidentiality 

Volunteers may have access to sensitive information about individuals, programs, or YSPN itself. This information must be treated as confidential and not shared outside the organisation without proper authority or consent.

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8. Reporting Misconduct

 

Anyone who experiences or witnesses conduct that violates this Code is encouraged to report it to the Chair.

 

Reports will be handled with:

1. Confidentiality and sensitivity;

2. Promptness; and

3. With protection from any retaliation or repercussion

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9. Breach of Conduct

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Any violations of the Code, will result in:

1. Verbal or written warnings;

2. Temporary or permanent suspension from volunteer duties including being restricted from attending YSPN events;

3. Termination of volunteer relationship, which may include being restricted from attending YSPN events.

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10. Acknowledgement

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All volunteers are required to review and acknowledge this Code prior to beginning or continuing their service. Continued participation as a Volunteer of YSPN implies acceptance of all terms herein.

 

YSPN reserves the right to make material changes to the Code as it sees fit and Volunteers agree to be bound by the Code at all times.  Volunteers will be updated of any material changes.