What you need to know about the NDIS code of conduct
Why do we have and need a NDIS code of conduct?
Sadly, we have seen a number of stories through the media in recent months and years where it appears a provider and/or disability workers have not done the right thing and a vulnerable person with disability has been affected.
Since the start of the Quality and Safeguards Commission in 2018, the NDIS has had a code of conduct for disability service providers and workers to abide by. It has always been a requirement for both registered and unregistered NDIS disability service providers to comply with.
Having the code of conduct in place has been an important minimum requirement to set the standard for everyone across the disability services sector. It has been used as a basis for the NDIS to undertake action against providers and individuals, including banning orders, compliance notices, enforceable undertakings, suspension and/or revocation of registration.
At Hope Circle, we believe that our clients and NDIS participants should have safe and ethical supports and services, including having workers who abide by the code of conduct, and who respect and uphold the rights of individual participants.
Who follows the NDIS code of conduct?
According to the NDIS Commission, the code of conduct must be followed by both registered and unregistered NDIS providers, their key personnel and NDIS workers.
It also applies to providers delivering information, linkages, and capacity building (ILC) programs, and those delivering Commonwealth Continuity of Support Programme services for people over the age of 65.
What is in the NDIS code of conduct?
The NDIS Code of Conduct is a set of standards developed by the NDIS Quality and Safeguarding Commission. It outlines the legal obligations of all workers and health practitioners operating within the NDIS – and this applies whether or not the individual or organisation is a registered provider.
The Code of Conduct is important because it helps to ensure that all participants receive the highest quality of support.
As a registered NDIS provider, Hope Circle ensures all staff are inducted and trained in the NDIS Code of Conduct and how it relates to their work.
There are the seven elements to the NDIS Code of Conduct as follows:
- Act with respect for individual rights to freedom of expression, self-determination, and decision-making in accordance with relevant laws and conventions.
- Respect the privacy of people with disability.
- Provide supports and services in a safe and competent manner with care and skill.
- Act with integrity, honesty, and transparency.
- Promptly take steps to raise and act on concerns about matters that might have an impact on the quality and safety of supports provided to people with disability.
- Take all reasonable steps to prevent and respond to all forms of violence, exploitation, neglect, and abuse of people with disability.
- Take all reasonable steps to prevent and respond to sexual misconduct.
How can I find out more about the NDIS Code of Conduct?
The NDIS provides a range of different resources to promote and help you learn more about the NDIS code of conduct.
These resources can be found on the NDIS Commission website, and includes:
- Videos describing the code of conduct in a range of languages and including Auslan
- The workforce capability framework which outlines the attitudes, skills and knowledge expected of all workers under the NDIS, providing clear, practical examples and a shared language of ‘what good looks like’.
- Other training for people working in disability services including the Worker Orientation Module
- How to speak up or make a complaint about a provider or worker under the NDIS.
Conclusion
At Hope Circle, it’s part of our core identity that we work to help our clients live the life they want to lead. We work to provide them with dignity of risk, hope for the future and increase the control they have over decisions.
Our staff undertake an NDIS Screening Check and are required to sign that they agree to comply with the NDIS Code of Conduct. We actively manage our staff team, including responding to client feedback or complaints with disciplinary actions, as appropriate.
Want more?
Hope Circle is a registered NDIS provider specialising in providing SIL and in-home & community support to individuals with complex disabilities.
Our team has extensive experience working with NDIS participants who have corrections or forensic histories, mental health and physical disabilities.
For more information regarding our services in Adelaide or Perth, please contact us here.