Code of Conduct
A code of conduct is a set of rules that guides employee behaviour within an organization.
It starts with our core values
Southern Health-Santé Sud expects employees to live its core values as they conduct themselves in their work. These values set the culture and tone that Southern Health-Santé Sud strives to uphold. As employees of SH-SS, we each have a responsibility in our day-to-day activities to be individually accountable for our actions. These core values are as follows:
Uncompromising INTEGRITY
We build trust through accountability, authenticity and responsiveness in everything we do.
Healing COMPASSION
We empower hope for the whole person, being there along the journey with kindness, generosity and empathy for another’s reality.
Pursuit of EXCELLENCE
We put forth our personal and professional best in our commitment to the highest standards of safety, quality and service.
RESPECT for All
We commit to inclusion and equity, and embrace diversity of culture, traditions, identity, ability and thought.
Purposeful INNOVATION
We courageously create new opportunities and collaboratively generate solutions for a sustainable future.
Employees
A code of conduct is a set of rules that guides behaviour within an organization to create an environment that is people-centred and welcoming for all. Conduct is not limited to our time at work. In some cases, off-duty conduct can have a significant impact on employees and the organization.
Highest Standards of Behaviour
Professional conduct, mutual respect for others, honour diversity of people and opinions in the workplace. Behaviours like yelling, using obscene or abusive language, gossip or rumors, harassing, threatening, intimidating, bullying, coercing, indecency and fighting have no place in the workplace.
Dress and Communicate Professionally
Being professional is about appearance and communication. Expected attire for work varies so make sure you are dressed appropriately for the work you do (learn more). Whether written, verbal or non-verbal, use language and mannerisms that reflect professionalism and respect. Our behaviour and communication are not limited to work time or workplace (i.e. Social Media) (learn more).
Report ‘Fit to Work’
Come to work on time and in a physical, mental and emotional state that enables you to work safely and acceptably perform the essential tasks of your job, including working in a manner which does not threaten the safety or health of themselves, coworkers, property or the public at large.
Safeguard Confidential Information
All confidential information about the organization, its staff and partners cannot be used or disclosed without authority.
Be a Good Steward
Protect resources and assets: including organizational reputation and spaces such as equipment, materials and supplies from damage, loss or theft and misuse. Do not steal information, resources or property to further private enterprise or making personal gains.
Help Resolve Situations
Participate fully and in good faith, in any resolution process/ formal complaint/ investigation process, where identified as having potentially relevant information.
Respect Each Other
Respect the rights of those you work with to personal dignity, privacy and confidentiality.
Report When Necessary
Refer to SH-SS’s Whistleblowing Policy if you have serious concerns about any aspect of SH-SS operations. This policy provides a mechanism to take the required steps to raise these concerns.
Comply with Conflict of Interest
Comply with the Conflict of Interest policy for any activities and outside employment interests that may be perceived to conflict with those of SH-SS including accepting any gift or benefit from any client, family of a client, individual, organization or corporation that creates an obligation or perceived obligation.
Employees are not to use this code of conduct to make false, frivolous or malicious complaints against a staff member or third party.
Management | Supervisors
Based on the nature of their work, managers and supervisors have additional responsibilities under the Code of Conduct.
Be a Role Model
Use professional and respectful conduct according to the highest level of integrity.
Share Information
Promote access to information regarding Southern Health-Santé Sud policies and standards.
Respond Appropriately
Respond quickly when inappropriate conduct has been brought to your attention or has been observed.
Respect all Parties
Respect the rights of all parties to a fair, equitable and confidential process for responding to complaints.
Provide Support
Provide support to all those who participate in any resolution, complaint or investigation process.
Ensure Accountability
Hold staff accountable for desired behaviours through the performance management process and enforcement of corrective and disciplinary measures where applicable.
Breach of Conduct
is a serious matter that has the potential to affect the entire Southern Health-Santé Sud community.
Breaches may result in disciplinary action in accordance with the Discipline and Notice of Discharge policy and potential criminal charges. Individuals occupying positions that require licensing or membership to a professional association may also be bound by standards set by the licensing bodies/associations.
Safety Event Reporting
Individuals are responsible to disclose any situations or activities that are not in compliance with this Code of Conduct or if uncertain will speak to a direct supervisor or Human Resources to obtain clarification.
Anyone who retaliates against an individual who has brought forward concerns in good faith, or who has participated in a workplace investigation in good faith may face disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment. Report any concerns about retaliation to a direct supervisor or Human Resources.
*Adapted from HealthCare Excellence Canada
