Sukkat Shalom Reform Synagogue

1 Victory Road, Wanstead, London, E11 1UL

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Code of conduct

1. 1. The members of the Sukkat Shalom Reform Synagogue are committed to a standard of responsible and ethical behaviour,which is expected in our synagogue and is consistent with Judaism.

2. This Code of Conduct is underpinned by trust and a belief that everyone should be treated with respect and dignity.

3. The Code of Conduct is not exhaustive and does not foresee every set of circumstances that may arise across the variety of synagogue events and activities.

4. The Code of Conduct should be viewed as a guide to the principles that help inform what is appropriate conduct.

5. The Code of Conduct values the safety and well-being of people of all ages.

6. The Code of Conduct also values the role of leaders and volunteers by promoting transparent, accountable relationships that in turn elicit trust and confidence in the synagogue and its programmes.

7.  The Code of Conduct is rooted in Jewish values including mutual responsibility and the idea of treating others as you would wish to be treated.
    

We commit ourselves to:

1. Conduct ourselves in a manner that upholds the good name of the synagogue.

2. Endeavour to conduct all personal relations in a good manner. Acting with respect,integrity and truthfulness towards all those we seek to associate irrespective of theirage, race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability status or position.

3. 3Respond where grievances occur and, where a resolution is not forthcoming, to seek additional assistance where needed. We will make every effort to pursue reconciliation when conflict or division occurs. Issues pertaining to criminal actions, bullying, or sexual misconduct will be handled in accordance with our safeguarding policies by those in leadership positions who will report, if necessary, to the police as required by the law.

4. Be diligent in providing each other with information and resources to fulfil our roles and be mindful of the expectations others have of us.

5. Be truthful and honest in our communication with each other.

6. Act with scrupulous honesty in all financial matters, and publicly account for all monies handled by us on behalf of others.

7. Actively promote a safe environment where abuse of any nature is not tolerated.

8. Actively promote a safe environment where bullying or harassment of any kind is not tolerated. Bullying and harassment can be physical, verbal, psychological or digital.

Confidentiality and trust are fundamental to sound synagogue relationships and must be upheld within the constraints of the law. 

​What should happen if the Code of Conduct is breached?

This Code of Conduct outlines expectations of behaviour and appropriate boundaries for all

members and in particular leaders of our synagogue. However, in every community there

are situations where issues arise and behaviour occurs that can cause offence or hurt

between individuals. The response should be firm yet proportionate and compassionate.

Concerns should be dealt with quickly to reduce the chance that they escalate.

 

Recommended Process

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Step 1: informal resolution

Consider whether you can respectfully raise the issue with the other person or people

involved and come to an amicable resolution.

If you aren't sure about the right response and feel the need to seek counsel, you should

speak to the Chair of the synagogue, the Rabbi, the Safeguarding Lead or another member

of the Board of Trustees. This consultation must be distinguished from gossip or sharing the

incident with others in order to gain sympathy and support.

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Step 2: formal discussions/grievance procedure

If the previous step fails to reach a resolution, ask that the matter be moved to a more

formal process. At this point, the individual may choose to invoke the synagogue’s

Grievance Procedure or may opt for a formal discussion where others may be invited to be

involved as either support people or informal facilitators. At this level it is appropriate that

some record be kept of what occurs. If resolved, no further action is required. Normally the

Board of Trustees and Rabbi would be notified that this has happened. Any formal

discussion should be pre-arranged and both parties have the opportunity for support by a

friend or family member.

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Step 3: formal mediation

If the individual still feels aggrieved after Step 2, then the Board of Trustees should be

notified and, with the agreement of all parties, a mediator should be appointed who will

meet with both parties and then facilitate a discussion together. Opportunities for

interpersonal reconciliation are usually given. Points of agreement and disagreement are

usually documented along with the outcome. Usually, a solution which is acceptable to

both is negotiated. If agreement is reached, no further action is required. A confidential

report is then given to the synagogue Board of Trustees as well as to the individuals

concerned. Keeping to the agreement is a matter of trust on both sides.

 

Agreed by the Board of Trustees Sukkat Shalom Reform Synagogue Board on Tuesday

1st October 2024