DBF Policies

Code of Conduct for Staff and Volunteers

Staff members, volunteers and others associated with the Dulabhatorn Foundation are responsible for maintaining high professional standards in their interaction with the children and young people we serve. All are expected to conduct themselves in a manner befitting their position as Dulabhatorn representatives and to provide positive role models for children. The Foundation insists on respect and condemns all manner of abuse, discrimination and sexual exploitation. 

1. Respect for clients
we aim to treat all children and young people with genuine respect, especially those who are intellectually or developmentally disabled and to keep confidential all personal information about the children and families we deal with. We will never condone or participate in illegal, unsafe or abusive behavior by children or young people or act in a way that includes unfair, discriminatory or differential treatment of children; we respect cultural and religious differences

We will never engage in any behavior that may shame, humiliate, belittle or degrade children; we will not use derogatory, aggressive, offensive or discriminatory language in speaking with or about a child or young person;

2. Abuse 
Abuse occurs when adults or others hurt children or young people physically, emotionally, sexually, through violations of cultural mores or by neglect. Sexual abuse occurs when a child or young person is pressured or forced to participate in any kind of sexual activity, whether or not the child consents to such activity. A mistaken belief in the age of the child is never a defense. Sexual relationships between staff and beneficiaries are strictly forbidden under any circumstances since they are based on inherently unequal power dynamics.

3. Transparency and Accountability 
We encourage free and open communication among all children, young people, parents, staff and volunteers; we will report any concerns regarding the abuse of children; staff and volunteers will ensure that they are accountable for their actions and that they never behave in a way that may risk criticism or allegations of misbehavior; they will report concerns or suspicion about possible misbehavior by fellow workers.