Code of Conduct

Sample template for demonstration — not an official document.

The Code of Conduct sets the standards of behaviour expected of everyone who facilitates, supports, or organises plant-medicine practice within the association. It exists to keep participants safe, to protect the integrity of the work, and to maintain public trust.

1. Purpose and scope

This Code applies to all facilitators, assistants, board members, and volunteers acting on behalf of the association. Adopting it is a condition of membership. Where local law is stricter than this Code, the law prevails.

2. Core principles

• Safety first. The physical and psychological safety of participants takes precedence over every other consideration.
• Informed consent. Participants decide freely, with full and honest information, and may withdraw at any time.
• Respect and dignity. Every person is treated with respect regardless of background, belief, or condition.
• Integrity. We are honest about what we offer, our training, and our limits.
• Confidentiality. What participants share is kept private, within the limits of the law and of safety.
• Non-exploitation. The relationship of trust is never used for personal, financial, sexual, or emotional gain.

3. The facilitator's responsibilities

A facilitator must:

1. Work only within their training and competence.
2. Screen every participant before accepting them (see the Minimum Safety Standards).
3. Prepare participants honestly for what may happen.
4. Remain present, sober, and attentive throughout a session.
5. Refer to medical or psychological professionals when a situation exceeds their competence.

4. Consent and boundaries

Consent is explicit, ongoing, and revocable. Physical contact is offered, never imposed, and only with clear permission. Any form of sexual contact with a participant is strictly prohibited, before, during, and after the work.

5. Scope of practice and referral

Facilitators do not diagnose or treat medical or psychiatric conditions. When a participant's needs fall outside the facilitator's scope, the facilitator declines or refers to a qualified professional.

6. Conflicts of interest

Facilitators disclose any interest that could compromise their judgement and step back from situations where they cannot remain impartial.

7. Confidentiality and data

Personal information is collected only when necessary, stored securely, shared only with consent or where the law requires, and retained no longer than needed.

8. Reporting concerns

Anyone may raise a concern about a breach of this Code without fear of reprisal. Concerns are handled promptly, fairly, and confidentially.

9. Sanctions

Breaches are reviewed by the association's review body. Outcomes range from guidance and additional training to suspension or removal from the register, proportionate to the seriousness of the breach.