Effective Date: 22nd February, 2026
1. Purpose
The BCCS Code of Conduct is intended to provide a clear set of expectations as to how BCCS diplomates and other healthcare professionals conduct themselves when working for or representing the BCCS. The standards identified should be seen as an adjunct to guidance provided by the General Medical Council (GMC) and published in documents such as Good Medical Practice1, Leadership and management for all doctors2 and Doctors’ use of social media3, in addition to the Nolan principles of public life4. The document does not diminish an individual’s duty to act in accordance with their employing organisation’s requirements and their contract of employment.
2. Core Values
All members of the organisation are expected to uphold the following values:
- Treat others with respect and consideration
- Recognise and value diversity and individual differences
- Behave with integrity, honesty, kindness and patience
- Be a role model for professional behaviours
- Undertake our work in good conscience and to the best of our ability
- Foster collaborative and supportive working with others
- Promote trust and a just culture
- Responsibility and accountability
- Commitment to learning and development
- Safeguarding and wellbeing of all individuals
- Hold ourselves and others accountable for professional and personal behaviours
- Take responsibility for the stewardship of our position of authority, mindful of our impact on others
- Respect the BCCS’s standards and rules and be a guardian of its reputation
3. Expected Standards of Behaviour
The standards apply to all BCCS fellows and diplomates. They are especially relevant when fellows and diplomates in all categories and other healthcare professionals represent the BCCS, work on the BCCS’s behalf or attend BCCS event (business or social), in any location.
The standards relate to all forms of communication including written, verbal, non-verbal, electronic and social media, particularly in the above circumstances or if there are potential implications for the BCCS reputation.
Fellows and diplomates and other healthcare professionals have collective responsibility to maintain these standards. They should be aware that if they fail to meet them, after full ascertainment of the circumstances, steps may be taken to address their behavior and appropriate sanctions applied. The BCCS’s ability to set rules concerning disciplinary issues derives from its by-laws, with the board approving a scheme including a conduct and discipline procedure to be followed, in such cases.
3.1: Respect and Inclusion
- Treat everyone with dignity, fairness, and courtesy.
- Do not engage in discrimination, harassment, bullying, or victimisation.
- Respect cultural, religious, and personal differences.
3.2: Professional Conduct
- Act in the best interests of members at all times.
- Maintain appropriate professional boundaries.
- Follow safeguarding policies and report concerns immediately.
- Use organisation resources responsibly and ethically.
3.3: Communication and Online Behaviour
- Use respectful language in person and online.
- Follow the organisation’s acceptable use policy for digital systems.
- Do not share confidential or inappropriate content.
3.4: Communication and Online Behaviour
- Follow health and safety rules at all times.
- Report accidents, hazards, or safeguarding concerns promptly.
- Support a culture where everyone feels safe to speak up.
4. Confidentiality and Data Protection
All members must respect confidentiality and comply with data protection laws and organisational policies when handling personal or sensitive information.
5. Conflicts of Interest
Individuals must disclose any personal or financial interests that could influence their professional responsibilities.
6. Breaches of the Code
Failure to follow this Code may result in disciplinary action in accordance with organisational procedures. Serious breaches may lead to suspension, dismissal, or removal from the organisation.
7. Review and Acknowledgement
This Code of Conduct will be reviewed regularly. All members are required to read, understand, and agree to comply with it.
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Understand the professional standards and behaviours expected of all BCCS members when representing the organisation.
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