Mercy Ships Code of Conduct
Code of Conduct
Mercy Ships is a faith based charity whose foundation rests on an integrated biblical world view of service to others and a personal relationship with Jesus. As such, volunteers are expected to respect the prevailing spiritual values as expressed in public meetings and in communication between staff and those served, and in no case undermine such values directly or indirectly in their interactions with others. Due to the fact our staff and volunteers come from many different backgrounds, guidelines are helpful to define acceptable conduct. The purpose of the following Code of Conduct is to ensure all staff and volunteers’ safety and fairness rather than to place restrictions on any one individual. The following is not intended to be “all inclusive”.
Each operating location may adapt slight variations to this Code of Conduct which should be communicated by the person in charge. All staff and volunteers are expected to abide by this Code of Conduct. Violation of the Code of Conduct could result in dismissal.
ILLEGAL DRUGS
Mercy Ships is a drug-free organization and has a zero tolerance policy for the use or possession of illegal drugs. This may mean immediate dismissal and notification to local authorities. Periodic drug testing may be conducted at the discretion of the person in charge.
ALCOHOL
For the health and safety of our staff and volunteers, for reduction of insurance costs, Mercy Ships elected at our beginning in 1978 to adopt an alcohol and tobacco free environment on all ships and operating locations. When appropriate, exceptions should be made for special receptions, weddings and such by the person in charge.
In addition, Mercy Ships will not reimburse its staff or volunteers for alcohol purchased while travelling or for business meals.
Mercy Ships will not dictate the use of alcohol in private homes, yet encourages responsibility and sensitivity.
SMOKING
All Mercy Ships facilities are tobacco-free.
DRESS CODE
Modest apparel is essential to community life. All Mercy Ships staff and volunteers are encouraged to honour each other in their choice of attire. Please check your operating location for a more detailed Dress Code for that location.
SEXUAL IMMORALITY/HARASSMENT
Mercy Ships enforces a zero-tolerance policy regarding sexual harassment (both verbal and physical) and does not allow staff and volunteers to engage in sexual immorality (sexual relations other than between a legally married husband and wife). In addition, pornography will not be tolerated in any form, including inappropriate use of the internet.
OTHER OFFENSES WHILE ON MERCY SHIPS FACILITIES WHICH MAY LEAD TO DISMISSAL
- Destroying or defacing Mercy Ships property
- Unauthorized use of Mercy Ships property, finances, telephones, or other communication equipment
- Theft or dishonesty
- Violation of safety rules or common safety practices
- Misuse of confidential information
- Fighting or attempting bodily harm or injury.
