Code of Conduct

This Code of Conduct reflects the institutional policies of Ackee Seed Foundation, which lay down the fundamental principles for the protection of our beneficiaries, our staff, and the resources entrusted to us.

The Code sets out the expected behaviours and minimum standards for everyone working on behalf of Ackee Seed Foundation. It also identifies actions to be avoided, so that all relationships with beneficiaries and between team members, reflect the values and ethics of our organisation.

The Board holds particular responsibility for ensuring compliance with this Code by maintaining a work environment in which these principles are understood, applied, and owned by all.

Failure to comply with this Code of Conduct may lead to managerial sanctions, up to and including dismissal.

Scope

This Code must be signed personally. It applies worldwide to anyone working on behalf of Ackee Seed Foundation or as part of a project or action conducted with Ackee Seed Foundation, whether recruited internationally or locally, or working on an ad hoc basis.

This includes all people holding a permanent or fixed-term employment contract with Ackee Seed Foundation, as well as family members accompanying international staff, consultants, interns, volunteers, international volunteers, service providers, and partner organisations.

Commitments

In every context, regardless of the urgency of a situation, as a member of Ackee Seed Foundation I commit to the following:

Dignity and respect
I will always respect the inherent dignity and worth of every individual benefiting from our services (including children), as well as all staff and partners. I will treat everyone with compassion and empathy, regardless of their age, sex, physical condition, disability, language, religion, opinion, nationality, ethnic or social origin, status, class, caste, sexual orientation, or any other personal characteristic.

Protection of children
I will never engage in any form of sexual relations with anyone under 18 years of age, regardless of the age of sexual majority set by law or local customs. Mistaking a child's age is not a defence.

No exploitation or abuse
I will not engage in any sexual relationship or seek sexual favours in exchange for money, gifts, work, or humanitarian aid, even if offered or expected by the individuals involved. This applies in all circumstances, including when individuals are considered or referred to as sex workers.

I will not, under any circumstances, directly or indirectly, use an adult or child to provide sexual services to another person, nor will I support, enable, or participate in any form of prostitution or sexual exploitation.

I will not sexually exploit any Ackee Seed Foundation community member or staff member, and I will not require a child to perform work (including domestic duties) in exchange for assistance or any form of benefit.

Right to report
I will always inform communities we work with (including children) of their right to report worrying situations, especially those related to safety or safeguarding and how they can raise a concern.

Zero tolerance for harassment and abuse
I will never engage in or tolerate any form of harassment, discrimination, physical or verbal abuse, bullying, or favouritism in the workplace including sexist and racist behaviours, sexual and psychological harassment, or abuse of power.

Risk awareness
I will always assess the risk of harm including financial and material harm related to project implementation. I will organise the workplace and plan activities in ways that minimise risk, taking into account the vulnerability, age, health, and development of children, staff, and beneficiaries.

Raising concerns
I will always raise any concern or query regarding this Code of Conduct, the Child Safeguarding Policy, or the Integrity Policy with my manager or supervisor or, if that is not possible, with another member of the leadership team or a designated focal person, in accordance with our internal reporting procedures.

Immediate reporting
I will immediately report any suspicion or allegation of behaviour that goes against the principles of this Code, the Child Safeguarding Policy, or the Integrity Policy, even if the information is unspecific without first investigating the matter myself.

Commitment Statement

By adhering to this Code of Conduct, I uphold my commitment to ethical conduct, the wellbeing of all individuals we serve, and the success of Ackee Seed Foundation's mission.