CODE OF CONDUCT FOR CUSTODIANS OF PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
Revised January 21, 2016
Introduction
The Code of Conduct, as set forth in the Code of Conduct itself, sets forth a framework
intended to assist impacted employees to help people with special needs “live self-directed,
meaningful lives in their communities, free from abuse and neglect, and protected from
harm,” in addition to the specific guidance provided by the agency’s policies and training.
Similarly, the Notice to Mandated Reporters contains guidance designed to assist mandated
reporters, and is intended to provide a summary of reporting obligations for mandated
reporters. It is not intended to supplement or in any way add to the reporting obligations
provided by law, rule, or regulation.
As provided by law, rule, or regulation, only custodians who have or will have regular and
direct contact with vulnerable persons receiving services or support from facilities or providers
covered by the Justice Center Act must sign that they have read and understand the Code
of Conduct.
The framework provides:
1. Person-Centered Approach
My primary duty is to the people who receive supports and services from this
organization. I acknowledge that each person of suitable age must have the
opportunity to direct his or her own life, honoring, where consistent with agency policy,
their right to assume risk in a safe manner, and recognizing each person’s potential for
lifelong learning and growth. I understand that my job will require flexibility, creativity
and commitment. Whenever consistent with agency policy, I will work to support the
individual’s preferences and interests.
2. Physical, Emotional and Personal Well-being
I will promote the physical, emotional and personal well-being of any person who
receives services and supports from this organization, including their protection from
abuse and neglect and reducing their risk of harm to others and themselves.
3. Respect, Dignity and Choice
I will respect the dignity and individuality of any person who receives services and
supports from this organization and honor their choices and preferences whenever
possible and consistent with agency policy. I will help people receiving supports and
services use the opportunities and resources available to all in the community,
whenever possible and consistent with agency policy.
4. Self-Determination
I will help people receiving supports and services realize their rights and responsibilities,
and, as consistent with agency policy, make informed decisions and understand their
options related to their physical health and emotional well-being.
5. Relationships
I will help people who receive services and supports from this organization maintain or
develop healthy relationships with family and friends. I will support them in making
informed choices about safely expressing their sexuality and other preferences,
whenever possible and consistent with agency policy.
6. Advocacy
I will advocate for justice, inclusion and community participation with, or on behalf of,
any person who receives services and supports from this organization, as consistent with
agency policy. I will promote justice, fairness and equality, and respect their human, civil
and legal rights.
7. Personal Health Information and Confidentiality
I understand that persons served by my organization have the right to privacy and
confidentiality with respect to their personal health information and I will protect this
information from unauthorized use or disclosure, except as required or permitted by law,
rule, or regulation.
8. Non-Discrimination
I will not discriminate against people receiving services and supports or colleagues based
on race, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, economic condition or
disability.
9. Integrity, Responsibility and Professional Competency
I will reinforce the values of this organization when it does not compromise the well-being
of any person who receives services and supports. I will maintain my skills and
competency through continued learning, including all training provided by this
organization. I will actively seek advice and guidance of others whenever I am uncertain
about an appropriate course of action. I will not misrepresent my professional
qualifications or affiliations. I will demonstrate model behavior to all, including persons
receiving services and supports.
10. Reporting Requirement
As a mandated reporter, I acknowledge my legal obligation under Social Services Law §
491, as may be amended from time to time or superseded, to report all allegations of
reportable incidents immediately upon discovery to the Justice Center’s Vulnerable
Persons’ Central Register by calling 1-855-373-2122.
