Code of Conduct & Safeguarding Summary

This summary brings together key expectations from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) policies on Dignity & Respect at Work and Safeguarding against Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Sexual Harassment (SEAH). It applies to all BOS members, youth programme participants, volunteers, staff and Trustees, and anyone representing BOS at events or online, in the UK or overseas. We are committed to a safe, inclusive and respectful environment with zero tolerance for bullying, harassment, discrimination, abuse of power or SEAH.

Who this applies to

All BOS members, participants, volunteers, contractors, staff and Trustees must follow these standards at all BOS events, activities and online spaces, whether on‑site or off‑site when representing the organisation. We also set expectations with venues, partners and guests to help protect our community from BHD/SEAH.

Our standards of behaviour

Everyone representing or participating in The British Omani Society is expected to:

Show dignity, courtesy and respect to all. Behaviour that demeans, excludes or harms others — including bullying, harassment, discrimination or sexual harassment — is not acceptable.
Use your role responsibly. Never misuse access, influence, or organisational resources for personal, sexual or other inappropriate gain.
Protect children and young people. Any sexual activity with a person under 18 is strictly prohibited, regardless of local laws or misunderstandings about age.
Maintain clear and professional boundaries at all times. Bribery, coercion, manipulation, or any form of undue influence is strictly prohibited. Do not offer or accept money, gifts, favours, opportunities, or services in exchange for sexual activity.
Avoid relationships that involve unequal power. If a personal relationship might create a conflict of interest or power imbalance within a BOS programme, disclose this to BOS leadership.
Be culturally respectful and aware.
- Recognise and honour Omani and wider Muslim cultural norms, especially around modesty, gender interactions, personal space, religious practices, and dress expectations when attending events or travelling with the Society.
- Practise cultural humility — be observant, ask respectfully when unsure, and prioritise behaviour that strengthens mutual trust and understanding.
Support inclusion. Make space for different needs and perspectives, and be willing to adjust behaviour to ensure everyone feels welcome and safe, while maintaining UK safeguarding standards at all times.

Cultural Respect & Etiquette

As a multi-cultural organisation, we expect all participants to show cultural sensitivity and courtesy. This includes being mindful of Omani and wider Muslim traditions—such as modest dress, respectful language, appropriate gender interaction, and consideration for religious practices. When in doubt, choose behaviour that demonstrates openness, humility, and respect for local customs and shared values.

Leadership & accountability

Leaders, staff and Trustees must model respectful conduct, promote inclusion and act early on concerns.
Retaliation or victimisation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith is prohibited.
Where allegations are substantiated, proportionate actions/sanctions may follow (up to removal from programmes/roles or dismissal for staff).

If you have a concern (reporting)

If you witness or experience BHD/SEAH at a BOS activity, speak to a BOS safeguarding lead, event manager or any BOS staff/Trustee.
You can also raise concerns confidentially via BOS’s enquiries@britishomani.org inbox or speak up in person; anonymous reports are accepted where possible.
We may need certain details to act; complete anonymity can limit investigation, but support and signposting will be offered to all parties.
In emergencies or where a crime may have occurred, contact the police immediately.

How we respond

Reports are taken seriously and handled promptly, fairly and without bias, following a person-centred, trauma‑informed approach.
Options include informal resolution and formal investigation. Information is shared on a need‑to‑know basis to protect privacy.
Complainants are told if allegations are upheld and relevant outcomes where permissible. The subject of complaint is treated fairly and may appeal per policy.

Events & third parties

BOS may restrict or remove access to events/venues to keep participants safe.
We set clear expectations with partners, venues and suppliers; concerns about partner behaviour should be reported to BOS.

Data & confidentiality

Safeguard personal data gathered through reports; store securely and share only on a need‑to‑know basis.
We will balance privacy with safeguarding duties and legal obligations (e.g., referrals to authorities where appropriate).

Training & awareness

BOS will provide periodic induction/briefings on dignity, respect and safeguarding expectations for youth programmes, staff and Trustees.
Managers receive guidance on responding to disclosures; all representatives should know how to report concerns.

Support

We will signpost confidential support (e.g., Employee Assistance, wellbeing services) and make reasonable adjustments for those affected.

Consequences

Breaches may lead to removal from events or programmes, termination of volunteering or membership actions, and for staff, disciplinary action up to dismissal.
Where lawful and necessary, serious findings may be referenced in employment checks; criminal matters may be reported to authorities.

This summary aligns with FCDO ‘Dignity & Respect at Work’ and ‘Safeguarding against SEAH’ policies.

For full BOS procedures, contact our Director: michelle.potts@britishomani.org.

If you would like to speak more on these policies, please contact enquiries@britishomani.org.

Version: Jan 2026