Beneficiary code of conduct

This code of conduct has been co-produced with beneficiaries and sets out the expected standards of behaviour of all beneficiaries, families, friends, and widows whilst engaging with the charity.

From its foundation Blind Veterans UK has been an organisation dedicated to providing care and support. We want everyone to have a positive experience with the charity and are proud to continue the traditions of comradeship, mutual respect and support which has always been at the core of service life.

In honouring this tradition, it is important for us all, beneficiaries, staff, volunteers, and carers to respect the feelings, cultures, and beliefs of everyone at Blind Veterans UK. The beneficiary code of conduct is intended to provide a reminder of the expected standards of behaviour.

Our standards of behaviour

Standard 1: We treat everyone with respect

Blind Veterans UK takes a positive approach to equality and diversity. The Equality Act 2010 sets out the characteristics where individuals may experience significant discrimination. These characteristics are age, race, sex, gender reassignment, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy, and maternity.

We take the duties of the Equality Act seriously and work hard to go beyond this to build and embrace a culture that respects and celebrates the uniqueness of every individual. We believe no person should be treated unfavourably or face any form of discrimination.

Standard 2: We live our values through our behaviour

What one person may perceive as ‘banter’ could cause offence to another. Blind Veterans UK will not accept any form of verbal abuse, physical aggression, inappropriate sexualised behaviour, bullying or unreasonable demands. Our behaviours should include our values of kindness, dignity, and friendliness.

Standard 3: We co-operate and support each other

We want to ensure that everyone gets the most out of their engagement with the charity. We value an ethos of comradeship and will uphold the reputation of the charity through co-operation and mutual support. The relationship between beneficiariess and Blind Veterans UK staff and volunteers should be professional, collaborative, and help maintain the wellbeing of everybody involved with the charity.

Standard 4: We demonstrate trust and integrity

It is a central principal that the relationship between the charity and its beneficiaries shall be open and honest. We all have a responsibility to respect the organisations property, resources, and equipment to ensure these are used appropriately. Support is tailored around the needs of each individual; beneficiaries should inform the charity of any changes in their circumstances. Furthermore, the charity recognises its responsibility to respect and safeguard beneficiary information. In return, beneficiaries are asked to inform the charity if they are aware of any reason that may impact on the way services are delivered or support is received.

Implementing the beneficiary code of conduct

All beneficiaries, staff and volunteers will be made aware of this code of conduct. Awareness training and how to respond in the event of an incident will be provided for all staff, with ongoing support through line management.

We will seek to resolve any issues or conflicts informally. However, there may be occasions where Blind Veterans UK may take formal action. This may include, for example, a verbal or written notice of advice, a change in the way we provide services or a termination of support.

Beneficiaries have a right to use the Blind Veterans UK complaints procedure in relation to any action taken against them regarding a considered breach of the beneficiary code of conduct.

Within Blind Veterans UK, there are other policies and procedures which underpin the work we do. Further information can be found on our policies page or through a member of your community team.