Code of Ethics and Practice         

Absolute Specialists Ltd

Revised September 2023

Introduction

The aim of the Code of Ethics and Practice is to ensure that all practitioners working with The Walters Method (TWM) act with integrity and responsibility.

TWM practitioners (TWMPs) should conduct themselves with integrity at all times in relation to their dealings with clients, colleagues and others.

TWMPs must agree to abide by the ethos; observe and be bound by this Code of Ethics and Practice and abide by the regulations, policies and procedures of TWM. They must also maintain professional indemnity insurance in respect of their professional practice; be registered with ICO and hold a current DBS certificate.

It is the responsibility of every TWM practitioner to be familiar with and comply with the content of this Code and to be able to explain its requirements satisfactorily to their clients and others and, if requested, provide a copy.

Our Ethos:

We aspire to hold a fearless, non-judgemental, nurturing environment for our clients, guide with love and authenticity and take responsibility for addressing as they arise any personal issues that could affect our ability to be fully present.

Key principles for practice

These principles are for guidance and are not intended to be exhaustive. It is expected that the relationship between TWM practitioners and their clients is one of mutual respect. Every TWMP is expected to:

1.1 Put the individual needs of the client first.

1.2 Respect the privacy and dignity of clients.

1.3 Treat everyone fairly, respectfully, sensitively and appropriately without discrimination.

1.4 Work to foster and maintain the trust of individual clients and the public.

1.5 Listen actively and respect the client’s views and their right to personal choice.

1.6 Support clients through processes and signposting to take responsibility and make choices for themselves wherever possible. 

1.7 Respect and protect client confidentiality and abide by our data protection policy.

1.8 Disclose confidential information only in clearly defined circumstances and abide by our safeguarding policy.

1.9 Maintain and develop professional knowledge and skills and agree to our Accreditation, Supervision and CPD Policy. 

1.10 Practice only within the boundaries of their own competence.

1.11 Respond promptly and constructively to concerns, criticisms and complaints.

And also to:

1.12 Respect the skills of other health care professionals and where possible work in co-operation with them.

1.13 Comply with the current legislation of the country, state or territory where they are practising.

Competence and Continuing Professional Development

TWMPs must maintain their accredited status through The Walters Method Ltd.

TWMPs will not give advice of any nature or offer any medical diagnoses.

TWMPs will be aware of the limits of their professional competence and where appropriate, will refer their client to another suitably qualified professional.

TWMPs should regularly monitor and evaluate their skills and abide by our actively extend their knowledge base and their own personal development through continuing professional development (CPD).

To support these commitments, TWMPs will attend regular (usually monthly) person-centred supervision sessions with a supervisor approved by TWM Ltd. Accreditation will be reviewed annually and renewed when practitioners can demonstrate that they are undertaking appropriate CPD.

Evidence of CPD will be taken into account when hearing allegations regarding an TWMP’s professional conduct or competence.

TWMPs who work with young people and vulnerable adults will hold an up to date advanced DBS certificate.

Professional boundaries

It is never appropriate for a TWMP to pursue or enter into an intimate relationship with a client. Such a relationship is potentially abusive of the person concerned and undermines the relationship of trust. ASPs will ensure that a professional relationship is maintained at all times.

It is not normally appropriate to enter a practitioner/client relationship with family or friends

Support and guidance in managing a potentially difficult situation of this nature, should be sought from a supervisor, or from the Professional Conduct Officer for TWM Ltd.

Conflict of interest

TWMPs will seek to avoid conflicts of interest and openly disclose any such conflicts to the client. This includes any compensation from third parties for referrals of the client.

Legal Obligations

TWMPs are required to comply with the criminal and relevant civil law of the country, state or territory where they are practising.  They must observe and are responsible for keeping up to date with all legislation and regulations relating directly or indirectly relating to their practice.

References to any legislation or regulations throughout this code shall include any amendments or other alterations, repeals or replacements made in law since the date they came into force.

Record Keeping

Client data will be kept protected by password and destroyed when no longer needed. Written records will be kept for 7 years and then destroyed. Records concerning children and young people will be kept until 5 years after they reach maturity.

Data, Advertising and Media

TWMPs will abide by the data protection policy. All advertising must be published in a way that conforms to the law and to guidance issued in the British Code of Advertising Practice.

Professional advertising must be factual and not seek to mislead, deceive, or make unrealistic or extravagant claims. Advertising may indicate special interests but must not make claims of superiority or disparage professional colleagues or other professionals.

Advertising content and the way it is distributed must not put prospective clients under pressure to consult or seek treatment from an TWMP.

Insurance

TWMPs shall hold appropriate professional indemnity insurance cover at all times.

Please also refer to the following policies and procedures:

Safeguarding Policy – including children and young people

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy

Health and Safety Policy

Data protection, GDPR and Social Media Policy

Accreditation, Supervision and CPD Policy

Client Assessment Procedure

Complaints Procedures

Grievance and Disciplinary procedures

Employee Vetting Procedure