"eyes and ears along the coast"

 

ETHICS

 

What are "Ethics":

 

"Ethics" is the discipline dealing with what is good and bad and with moral duty and obligation.

 

Social graces, tables manners and dress codes might be seen as old fashioned in the 21st century, but Coastwatch volunteers have to know how to act, and how to interact with members of the public, other official agencies and with each other.

 

Most of us know what is required of us when in uniform, and when we are socialising with each other, but sometimes we forget, or have never been taught. As a member of Coastwatch Scotland Irvine Unit (hereafter called "CWS") whether you are in uniform, or out with your CWS colleagues on a night out, you are expected to know how to act as you are seen to be representing the charity as a whole.

 

Every person volunteering for CWS must do so honestly and ethically. The public expect CWS to do the right thing in the right way. CWS aims to include the principles of fairness’and‘respect’ through our interaction with both the public and CWS volunteers. These principles reflect the personal beliefs and aspirations that in turn serve to guide behaviour and shape us both now and in the future. The combination of principles and standards of behaviour encourages consistency between what people believe in and aspire to, and what they do.

 

Reliability, punctuality and politeness

 

Reliability, punctuality and acknowledging others with respect are the basics of good manners. Politeness can and will improve your relationships with others, help to build respect and rapport, boost your self-esteem and confidence, and improve your communication skills.

 

In Uniform

 

Your uniform should be clean and in good repair. You are not on duty unless you are wearing your uniform. If you do not have a uniform for any reason, then you must display your ID card at all times while on duty. More information on Uniform can be found in the Volunteer Policy part of this website and in your Welcome Pack.

 

Uniform Etiquette

 

The public expect someone in uniform to be courteous, helpful and polite under all circumstances. It may seem old fashioned, but it is polite to stand when someone enters the room for the first time. Slouching in a corner when someone you don't know enters the room is seen as highly impolite and throws a very bad light on the organisation. For purely practical reasons, putting your feet up on a counter or table is rude, not least because it is bad manners. Feet (especially with shoes) are usually dirty, so you will leave some dirt on the top or edge of your desk or table, or chair.

 

Identification Card

 

Your ID Card will be made available as soon as practicable from the Head of Unit or his/her deputy.#

 

Language

 

Use appropriate language – be respectful of gender, race, religion, political viewpoints and other potentially controversial or difficult subjects. Do not make derogatory or potentially inflammatory comments.