Code of conduct

For Self-Employed Mentors and Tutors
Purpose Driven Youth
Date of Issue: September 2025
Review Date: September 2026

1. Introduction

This Code of Conduct sets out the professional standards and expectations for all self-employed mentors and tutors working with Purpose Driven Youth.

Our organisation exists to support the development, learning and wellbeing of children and young people. As such, it is vital that all individuals representing Purpose Driven Youth uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism and care.

This policy should be read alongside our Safeguarding Policy, Health & Safety Policy, and other relevant procedures.

2. Purpose

The purpose of this Code is to:

  • Promote a safe, respectful, and positive environment for young people

  • Protect staff and young people from any behaviours that could lead to harm, misunderstanding, or reputational damage

  • Clarify the expectations for conduct, both in person and online

  • Support compliance with legal and regulatory obligations

All mentors and tutors must adhere to this Code at all times during the course of their engagement with Purpose Driven Youth.

3. Professional Conduct

You are expected to:

  • Act professionally and responsibly at all times

  • Be punctual, prepared, and appropriately dressed for all sessions

  • Maintain clear professional boundaries with all students and families

  • Communicate in a respectful and appropriate manner with young people, parents/carers, and colleagues

  • Refrain from using language or behaviour that could be considered discriminatory, offensive, or inappropriate

  • Uphold the values and reputation of Purpose Driven Youth, both during and outside of sessions

4. Safeguarding and Child Protection

  • You have a duty of care to protect the welfare of all young people you work with

  • You must comply fully with Purpose Driven Youth’s Safeguarding Policy

  • Any concerns about a child’s wellbeing or safety must be reported immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

  • You must not engage in any inappropriate relationships (e.g. romantic, sexual, or overly personal) with any young person

  • Avoid favouritism or showing preferential treatment to individual students

  • Never use your position to exploit or manipulate a young person

5. Boundaries and Relationships

  • Do not share personal phone numbers, email addresses, or social media accounts with students or their families

  • Avoid giving or accepting personal gifts (unless approved by a manager)

  • One-to-one sessions must take place in suitable, approved environments, whether online or in person

  • Always conduct yourself in a manner that cannot be misinterpreted

6. Online Conduct and Communication

When working online:

  • Use only the agreed platforms provided or approved by Purpose Driven Youth

  • Ensure your environment is professional, neutral, and free from distractions or inappropriate materials

  • Do not record sessions unless authorised and with appropriate consent

  • Never contact students via personal social media accounts or messaging apps

  • Report any inappropriate online behaviour immediately

7. Confidentiality and Data Protection

  • You must treat all personal information about young people and families as confidential and handle it in accordance with the Data Protection Act 2018 (GDPR)

  • Do not discuss students or cases with third parties unless authorised

  • Store notes and records securely, whether digital or physical

  • Any data breaches must be reported immediately to your manager or the DSL

8. Drugs, Alcohol and Smoking

  • You must not attend sessions under the influence of drugs or alcohol

  • Smoking or vaping during sessions (including online) is strictly prohibited

  • Illegal substances must never be used, possessed, or distributed in connection with your work

9. Dress Code

Your appearance should be clean, tidy, and appropriate for working with young people and families. Inappropriate or revealing clothing should be avoided.

10. Conflict of Interest

  • Declare any potential conflicts of interest (e.g. tutoring family members or friends)

  • Avoid entering into additional private arrangements with families introduced through Purpose Driven Youth without prior agreement

  • You must not promote external services or businesses to students or families without authorisation

11. Reporting Concerns

If you observe a breach of this Code by another staff member or volunteer, or have concerns about any aspect of practice, you are expected to raise the matter with your supervisor or the DSL.

We operate a whistleblowing policy and will support any staff member raising genuine concerns in good faith.

12. Breach of Code of Conduct

Breaches of this Code may result in:

  • Suspension or termination of engagement with Purpose Driven Youth

  • Referral to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) or Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO)

  • Legal or professional consequences where appropriate

13. Declaration

All self-employed mentors and tutors are required to sign this policy to confirm their understanding and agreement.

I have read, understood, and agree to abide by the Purpose Driven Youth Code of Conduct for Mentors and Tutors.

Full Name: _________________________
Signature: __________________________
Date: ______________________________

Contact Details

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Name: Michael Olarewaju
Email: dsl@purposedrivenyouth.co.uk
Phone: 073 5959 9827