Conduct & Standards

The Church in Wales Dignity Charter

Everyone has a right to be treated with dignity and respect and this means that everyone also has a duty and responsibility to treat others with the same dignity and respect. Treating people in a manner which is discourteous and undignified in any way or which causes harm undermines individual dignity as well as the life and ministry of the whole church. Poor relationships will make people feel undervalued and unhappy. They can cause distress, affect physical and mental wellbeing, and have adverse effects on social relationships.

The right to be treated with dignity and respect extends to all aspects of our church life including those which are outside of the typical workplace, for example, working with the community, church services, business meetings and work-related social events or through the use of social media.

This Dignity Charter applies to both groups and individuals by providing a framework of expectation for managing how we behave towards one another. It sets out standards which everyone should meet. It is intended to create a supportive environment where mistakes are recognised, acknowledged and which can result in positive learning and progressive change in behaviour. The Charter sets out how respect and the valuing of individuals are core principles which positively increase diversity and the subsequent flourishing of our common life.

Personal Responsibility

Everyone associated with the Church in Wales is expected to behave respectfully and courteously and has the right to expect respectful and courteous behaviour from others.

We will:

• Treat everyone with courtesy, dignity, and respect ensuring that the rights of others are respected and upheld.
• Be aware how our own behaviour impacts on others and make changes if it has caused offence, or others tell us that it is likely to do so.
• Never behave in a manner that could be seen as bullying, harassing, or victimising.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, recognise that improvement will bring change and that change will often be initiated by challenge.
• Value all people’s differences, without causing embarrassment.
• Be aware of power imbalances which can exist between people working, worshipping, studying or ministering together, but with different roles and levels of seniority.
• Be polite in all forms of communication.
• Acknowledge and learn from our mistakes.
• Always act towards others with integrity.

Reporting Unacceptable Behaviour

If you feel uncomfortable with behaviours you experience or witness, report any incidents to your line manager, Ministry Area Leader, Archdeacon or the Human Resources team of the Representative Body. Concerns about the behaviour of other volunteers and Ministry Area workers should be reported to your supervisor or the Ministry Area Leader. Concerns about the behaviour of committee members should be reported to the Ministry Area Leader. Concerns about a cleric should be reported to the relevant Archdeacon, or Bishop’s Office.

For more information about the Church in Wales Dignity Charter, please visit the website here: Dignity Charter - The Church in Wales

Bullying, Harassment, Discrimination and Victimisation

The Diocese of Swansea & Brecon is committed to ensuring that all our places of ministry and service are safe, inclusive, and respectful. In keeping with the Church in Wales dignity charter, we will not tolerate any form of harassment, discrimination, bullying, sexual harassment, or victimisation, whether verbal, physical, emotional or written.

Every person deserves to be treated with dignity and kindness. Volunteers who engage in behaviour that violates this standard may have their role ended.

All persons shall respect the rights of others and refrain from:

• Unwanted physical conduct of an unacceptable nature
• Unwanted verbal conduct of a direct or indirect intimidatory nature
• Non-verbal conduct of an intimidating nature
• Conduct that ridicules, intimidates or abuses an individual
• Verbal or written harassment
• Isolation or non-co-operation

All those in a position of responsibility shall be responsible for ensuring that bullying, harassment, abuse or intimidation does not occur in the areas for which they are responsible e.g. diocese, Cathedral, or Ministry Area.

All persons associated with the life and work of the Church in Wales have a particular responsibility to maintain an environment free from bullying, harassment, abuse or intimidation.

We have a clear procedure in place to make sure any concerns or complaints are addressed fairly, promptly, and sensitively. If you ever feel that you or someone else is experiencing bullying, harassment, or discrimination, please don’t hesitate to speak with any of the following:

• your supervisor
• a cleric
• an Archdeacon

You will be supported and taken seriously.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

The Diocese of Swansea & Brecon is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

We celebrate diversity and aim to ensure that no one is treated less favourably because of their gender, ethnicity, age, disability, marital or family status, sexual orientation, gender reassignment status or faith. Every person should feel safe and supported in their role, and we are here to ensure that happens.

Alcohol and Other Drugs

As part of creating a safe and respectful environment, the diocese expects all volunteers to carry out their duties free from the influence of alcohol or drugs. Please do not consume or be under the influence of any substances while volunteering. This helps ensure the wellbeing of everyone involved and upholds the trust placed in our work.

If you’re ever unsure about medication, prescriptions, or any related concerns that may affect your role, you’re encouraged to speak confidentially with your supervisor.

Attendance — Showing Up Matters

When you join us, we’ll let you know how much time is expected for your role. If that becomes difficult for you, or if you find you have more time to give, then please have a chat with your supervisor. We’re happy to work with you to figure out what’s best for everyone.

Dress Code

Please make sure your clothing and footwear suit the tasks you’ll be doing and please ensure you use any safety or hygiene gear provided by your supervisor.

Conflicts of Interest

As a valued volunteer, your honesty and integrity are greatly appreciated. If you ever find yourself in a situation where you have a personal interest; whether financial, relational, or otherwise, that might influence your role, it’s important to let us know. This includes anything that could lead to personal gain or loss or might be perceived that way by others.

Please don’t worry, flagging a potential or actual conflict of interest is simply part of being open and transparent. Just speak to your supervisor as soon as you become aware of it, and together we’ll work out the best way forward.

Copyright Awareness

Just like any other organisation, the Church is bound by UK copyright laws. These laws apply to all of us, individuals and ministry areas alike and it’s important we do things properly. Even unintentional breaches can carry legal consequences, so we need to be mindful.

If you’re involved in preparing materials such as music, visuals, or printed resources, please ensure you have the correct permissions or licences in place. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask, we’re here to help.

By respecting copyright, we honour the creativity and work of others and protect the Church from legal risk.

Electronic Devices and Systems

If your volunteering role involves using computers, phones, or other digital tools, we ask that you do so in a respectful and responsible way. Technology can be a great support in our ministry, but it also comes with responsibilities.

Any use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) must align with the values of the Church and with UK law. That means:

• Always use devices and systems for appropriate purposes related to your role.
• Do not access, view, download or stream any material that is illegal, including pornography or unlicensed (copyrighted) music, films, or other content.
• Please do not share any material from your own personal equipment that is illegal, or that could cause distress, including pornography or unlicensed (copyrighted) music, films or other content.

Personal Mobiles

You can use your mobile whilst volunteering, but please don’t let it interfere with your performance in the role or cause disruption to others.

Please don’t use your phone when carrying out a task where safety is a consideration, it might interfere with your level of concentration.

Please think about safeguarding and data protection if you’re using your phone for recording or sharing. It’s great to share the life of the church, but we must be mindful not to cause harm or to act illegally. If you have any doubts, ask your line manager.

Think about the role you’re doing too. If you’re there to help, seeing you on your phone can give the impression that you’re too busy to interrupt!

Social Media

Social media is a powerful tool for sharing the life of the Church, celebrating community, and reaching out with the love of Christ. At the same time, it is a public space, so we ask all volunteers to follow these simple guidelines to ensure that our online presence reflects our values and protects both individuals and the reputation of the Diocese.

1. Representing the Diocese

• When posting on behalf of the Diocese, always be respectful, accurate, and kind.
• Avoid sharing personal opinions that could be misinterpreted as the official view of the Diocese.
• Avoid sharing personal details of yourself or others.
• If in doubt about posting something, check first with your supervisor, member of DBF staff or the Vicar.

2. Respecting Others

• Protect privacy: do not share personal details (addresses, phone numbers, pastoral conversations, etc.) without permission.
• Always seek written consent before posting identifiable images of children, young people, or vulnerable adults.
• Show respect for different perspectives; avoid arguments or unhelpful debates online.
• Always seek consent before sharing someone else’s content.

3. Safeguarding Online

• Follow the diocese’s safeguarding policies at all times.
• Do not initiate or accept private social media connections with children or young people (e.g., personal friend requests).
• Report any safeguarding concerns immediately to the Safeguarding Officer or the Provincial Safeguarding Adviser.

4. Good Practice for Posting

• Share positive stories, events, and updates that reflect the mission and ministry of the Ministry Area.
• Use inclusive and welcoming language.
• Credit sources properly (quotes, photos, artwork, etc.).
• Think before you post: ask yourself, “Would I be happy for this to be read out in church or shared in the local newspaper?”

5. Personal Use of Social Media

• You are free to use your own accounts in your personal capacity, but please remember that what you post is still public.
• Avoid posting anything that could cause harm to the reputation of the Church or undermine trust in the ministry you are involved with.
• If mentioning your role within the diocese, be mindful that your views may be associated with the Church.

6. Staying Safe

• Protect your passwords and use privacy settings wisely.
• Be cautious about links or messages from unknown accounts.
• If you experience online abuse or harassment, do not respond, report it and seek support.

7. When in Doubt

If you are ever unsure whether something is appropriate to post, pause and seek advice before sharing. It’s always better to check than to risk harm.

Remember: Our presence online should reflect our values offline: faithful, respectful, and rooted in love.

10 Golden Rules for Social Media

1. Be kind and respectful — always reflect the values of our Church family.
2. Protect privacy — never share personal details without consent.
3. Get permission first — written consent is required before posting photos of children or adults at risk. Also please get permission before using someone else’s images or written content.
4. Safeguarding online — never use personal accounts to contact children or young people; use official channels only.
5. Think before you post — if you wouldn’t say it in church, don’t post it online.
6. Stay positive — share stories, events, and updates that build up the Church and community.
7. Use inclusive language — ensure everyone feels welcome and respected.
8. Separate personal and ministry area/diocesan voices — your personal opinions are your own, not the official view of the ministry area/diocese.
9. Stay safe — protect your accounts with strong passwords and be wary of suspicious links or messages.
10. When in doubt, check — if you’re unsure, pause and seek advice before posting.

Smoking & Vaping

We adhere to UK law restrictions regarding smoking and vaping in public places. Depending on the work you are doing with us, it may not be appropriate to smoke publicly. If you have any queries, please ask your supervisor.

Public Comment

To protect the integrity and unity of the Church’s message, only authorised individuals may speak on behalf of the diocese or give interviews to the media. If you’re approached for a comment or unsure how to respond, please direct any enquiries to the diocese’s Director of Communication.

Privacy and Confidentiality

As a volunteer, you may come across personal or sensitive information whether about clergy, laypeople, staff, fellow volunteers, or the diocese itself. It is essential that any such information is handled with the utmost care and discretion.

Confidentiality is not only a matter of respect and trust it’s a legal requirement under UK data protection law and a key part of our shared values.

You are expected to:

• Keep private information confidential and never share it with family, friends, other volunteers, or anyone outside the diocese
• Use caution and discernment when communicating via email, social media, or other channels - what you say or share matters
• Always respect the dignity, privacy, and rights of every individual

Every volunteer is required to sign a confidentiality agreement as part of the application process. Your supervisor will provide this form. Please be aware that breaches of confidentiality may result in your volunteering role being brought to an end.

Photographs and Consent

From time to time, we may take photos during church events or volunteer activities to celebrate and share our ministry. If you would prefer not to appear in any photographs, just let your supervisor know.

Please note: in line with safeguarding policies, photos of children must never be taken without written permission from a parent or guardian.

Working with Different Groups

Confidentiality can vary depending on who you are working with. For example, under the Children Act 1989, if a child shares something that suggests they may be at risk of harm, confidentiality must be broken to protect their safety.

However, when working with adults, a person may have the right to share something with you in complete confidence without the expectation of further action unless there is a risk of harm to them or others.

This is why it’s vital to understand and follow the diocese’s Confidentiality Policy. If you’re ever unsure, please speak to your supervisor, they’ll be happy to guide you.

Personal Information

It’s important that we keep your contact details up to date so we can stay in touch with you when needed. If your phone number, address, or other details change, please let your supervisor know as soon as possible.

We collect your data to effectively manage church operations and adhere to the rules set by the Church in Wales. This information will be accessible to staff involved in church administration at the local Ministry Area, the Diocese of Swansea and Brecon, and the wider Church in Wales, all of whom use a common database.