Preface or Introduction
(signed by the Chairman or Chief Executive Officer or both)
Start with a sentence on the purpose of this Statement
and the code - mention the values that are important to
the top management in the conduct of the business - integrity,
responsibility and reputation - and what they mean for the
business. Describe the leadership commitment in maintaining
high standards both within the organisation and in its dealings
with others.
Set out the role of the organisation and a personal endorsement
of the code. State that you expect the standard set out
in it will be maintained by all involved in the organisation
adn assure everyone that no one will be penalised for sticking
to the spirit as well as the letter of the code.
The Purpose and Values and Impacts of the Business
Describe the service which is being provided, the nature
of the business, its location etc.
A. How to use this code
Describe its purpose, relevance, audience and context. Describe
other supporting documents, tools or sources of support.
Provide a summarised ethical decision making framework.
B. Employees
How the business values employees. the company's policies
on: working conditions, recruitment, development and training,
rewards, health, safety & security, equal opportunities,
diversity, retirement, redundancy, discrimination and harassment.
Use of company assets by employees.
C. Customer Relations
The importance of customer satisfaction and good faith in
all agreements, quality, fair pricing and after-sales service.
D. Shareholders or other providers of money
The protection of investment made in the company and proper
'return' on money borrowed. A commitment to accurate and
timely communication on achievements and prospects.
E. Suppliers
Prompt settling of bills. Co-operation to achieve quality
and efficiency. No bribery or excess hospitality accepted
or given.
F. Society or the wider community
Compliance with the spirit of laws as well as the letter.
The company's obligations to protect and preserve the environment.
The involvement of the company and its staff in local affairs.
The corporate policy on sponsorship as well as giving to
education and charitable appeals.
G. Implementation & reinforcement
The process by which the code is issued and used. Means
to obtain advice. Awareness raising examples (Q & As).Training
programmes for all staff.
H. Assurance, reporting and reviews
Suggest ways of knowing if the code is effective. Report
to the board or board committee at least annually. Review
procedures for updating the code.
The IBE publication Living
Up to Our Values: developing ethical assurance can be
of assistance for Section H.
