Mood Disorders Society of Canada’s Volunteer Code of Conduct

The Mood Disorder Society of Canada stands on the highest reputation for integrity, honesty and the faithful discharge of the public trust and confidence. It is the Society’s expectation that all volunteers conduct themselves and the work they have been entrusted with, on behalf of the Society, in a manner that maintains and honours that standing. It is on this premise that the Society expects that all volunteers WILL comply with the stated Code of Conduct described in this document.

CONFIDENTIALITY
Volunteers MUST respect and maintain the confidentiality of information gained in their capacity as volunteers of the Society. Information and other documents relating to clients, other volunteers, staff and donors are in their nature, private and confidential and all volunteers must exercise care and caution to protect and secure total confidentiality. It is the expressed desire of the Society that volunteers will not read records and/or discuss contents of such documents unless the reason for such use is deemed legitimate. The records of clients, volunteers and staff are the expressed property of the Society and are kept in a designated secure location at the office.

RESPECTFUL CONDUCT
Volunteers MUST respect all clients, staff and fellow volunteers with whom they interact while conducting business on the Society’s behalf. Discrimination of any kind, i.e. racial, region, sexual etc. will not be tolerated. Any such behaviours that compromise the dignity and self-worth of others is frown upon by the Society and will be dealt with promptly, in confidence and also in accordance with the standards of due process developed by the Society. It is the expressed expectation of the Society that all volunteers will also abide by the Human Rights Codes.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Volunteers MUST avoid all situations in which their personal interests conflict or might seem to be in conflict with duties to the Society. If there are any situations (s) where such conflicts could be considered to be present at the time of accepting a volunteer position with the Society, this must be disclosed and clarity will be given. If during the time of volunteering, an event occurs which could be in conflict, this must also be disclosed and clarification will be given.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
In the event a volunteer, in the course of his or her role with the Society, develops intellectual property, this property will become the property of the Society. This includes any promotional materials, training resources, guidebooks etc.

TEAM WORK
Volunteers MUST work together and help each other wherever possible to accomplish the goals of the Society. It is expected that volunteers will listen and adhere to all decisions agreed upon. If there are any areas in which volunteers remain in doubt, clarification must be sought in order to fulfill the functions undertaken.