Code of Conduct

Code of Conduct for Custodians of People with Special Needs

The Code of Conduct, as explained within the said document, sets forth a framework intended to assist impacted employees to help people with special needs "live self-directed, meaningful lives in their communities, free from abuse and neglect, and protected from harm," in addition to the specific guidance provided by the agency's policies and training.

Similarly, the Notice to Mandated Reporters contains guidance designed to assist mandated reporters and is intended to provide a summary of reporting obligations for mandated reporters. It is not intended to supplement or in any way add to the reporting obligations provided by law, rule, or regulation.

As provided by law, rule, or regulation, only custodians who have or will have regular and direct contact with vulnerable persons receiving services or support from facilities or providers covered by the Justice Center Act must sign that they have read and understand the Code of Conduct.

The framework provides:

Person-Centered Approach

My primary duty is to the people who receive support and services from this organization. I acknowledge that each person of suitable age must have the opportunity to direct his or her own life, honoring, where consistent with agency policy, their right to assume risk in a safe manner, and recognizing each person's potential for lifelong learning and growth. I understand that my job will require flexibility, creativity, and commitment. Whenever consistent with agency policy, I will work to support the individual's preferences and interests.

Physical, Emotional and Personal Well-being

I will promote the physical, emotional and personal well-being of any person who receives services and supports from this organization, including their protection from abuse and neglect and reducing their risk of harm to others and themselves.

Respect, Dignity and Choice

I will respect the dignity and individuality of any person who receives services and support from this organization and honor their choices and preferences whenever possible and consistent with agency policy. I will help people receiving support and services use the opportunities and resources available to all in the community, whenever possible and consistent with agency policy.

Self-Determination

I will help people receiving support and services realize their rights and responsibilities, and, as consistent with agency policy, make informed decisions and understand their options related to their physical health and emotional well-being.

Relationships

I will help people who receive services and support from this organization maintain or develop healthy relationships with family and friends. I will support them in making informed choices about safely expressing their sexuality and other preferences, whenever possible and consistent with agency policy.

Advocacy

I will advocate for justice, inclusion, and community participation with, or on behalf of, any person who receives services and support from this organization, as consistent with agency policy. I will promote justice, fairness, and equality, and respect their human, civil, and legal rights.

Personal Health Information and Confidentiality

I understand that persons served by my organization have the right to privacy and confidentiality with respect to their personal health information and I will protect this information from unauthorized use or disclosure, except as required or permitted by law, rule, or regulation.

Non-Discrimination

I will not discriminate against people receiving services and support or colleagues, based on race, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, economic condition, disability, or any other protected class under the law.

Integrity, Responsibility and Professional Competency

I will reinforce the values of this organization when it does not compromise the well-being of any person who receives services and support. I will maintain my skills and competency through continued learning, including all training provided by this organization. I will actively seek advice and guidance from others whenever I am uncertain about an appropriate course of action. I will not misrepresent my professional qualifications or affiliations. I will demonstrate model behavior to all, including persons receiving services and support.

Reporting Requirement

As a mandated reporter, I acknowledge my legal obligation under Social Services Law § 491, as may be amended from time to time or superseded, to report all allegations of reportable incidents immediately upon discovery, to the Justice Center's Vulnerable Persons' Central Register by calling 1.855.373.2122.

Work Related Conduct of Employees

The following statement is written in response to OPWDD regulations Part 633.7 regarding individuals' rights. Please feel free to obtain a copy of these regulations from the Residence Manager of the facility.

There are expectations regarding your conduct. Paul J. Cooper is founded on the principle that persons with developmental disabilities have the right to be treated in a dignified manner and with respect.

As employees of Paul J Cooper at our agency, you have the responsibility for maintaining and improving the quality of our programs. We have high standards for our programs and our staff are required to comply with the following:

  • Employees shall not engage in any activities that constitute abuse of individuals.

  • There shall be no use of corporal punishment upon the individuals.

  • There shall be no discriminatory activity against individuals or others for any reason, including race, religion, national origin, creed, age, sex, ethnic background, and/or developmental disability.

  • Employees shall not distribute, sell, possess, purchase, or consume illegal substances or alcohol while at the workplace or while performing in a work-related capacity.

  • Employees shall not come to work or work if their ability to perform their job is impaired due to the use of alcohol, a controlled substance, an illegal substance, or a prescribed medication.

  • Individuals should not carry out the duties of employees unless such tasks are outlined in the individuals program plan of services by the individuals program planning team for increasing the individual skills.

  • Individuals should not be subjected to inappropriate exposure to firearms or other weapons in or on the grounds of the facility. The presence of a firearm or other weapons is not allowed within any of Paul J Cooper's facilities.

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