1 Code of Ethics for Youth Work Practice in the Philippines

2 Developed by the Center for Youth Work Research and Training Center in partnership with Positive Youth
3 Development Network’s Impact Circle Members
4 Draft Copy: Version 4; Last update: May 28, 2023
5
6 1. Professionalism and Integrity

7 1.1. Youth workers shall uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and ethical
8 conduct in their interactions with young people, colleagues, and the community.

9 1.2. Youth workers shall be committed to continuous professional development, staying updated
10 with current practices, research, and policies in the field of youth work.

11 2. Respect for Dignity and Diversity

12 2.1. Youth workers shall respect the dignity, worth, and rights of all young people, regardless of
13 their background, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or abilities.

14 2.2. Youth workers shall create inclusive environments that embrace diversity, promote equality,
15 and celebrate individual differences.

16 3. Confidentiality and Privacy

17 3.1. Youth workers shall maintain strict confidentiality regarding personal information and issues
18 shared by young people unless there is a risk of harm to the young person or others.

19 3.2. Youth workers shall obtain appropriate consent before collecting, using, or sharing any
20 personal information of young people, in accordance with relevant laws and regulations.

21 4. Safety and Well-being

22 4.1. Youth workers shall prioritize the safety and well-being of young people, taking all necessary
23 steps to protect them from harm, abuse, exploitation, and neglect.

24 4.2. Youth workers shall establish and maintain safe and secure environments for young people,
25 addressing any potential risks and promoting their physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

26 5. Empowerment and Participation

27 5.1. Youth workers shall empower young people, promoting their active participation,
28 involvement, and decision-making in matters that affect their lives.

29 5.2. Youth workers shall encourage and support young people to develop their skills, talents, and
30 potential, fostering their personal growth and self-determination.

31 6. Ethical Use of Power and Authority

32 6.1. Youth workers shall exercise their power and authority responsibly, ensuring that it is used
33 for the benefit of young people and the community.

34 6.2. Youth workers shall avoid any form of exploitation, manipulation, or favoritism, and shall
35 treat all young people with fairness, respect, and dignity.
36 7. Accountability and Professional Boundaries

37 7.1. Youth workers shall be accountable for their professional actions and decisions, taking
38 responsibility for the consequences of their work.

39 7.2. Youth workers shall establish clear professional boundaries with young people, maintaining
40 appropriate relationships and avoiding conflicts of interest.

41 8. Collaboration and Networking

42 8.1. Youth workers shall actively collaborate and network with other professionals, organizations,
43 and stakeholders in the field of youth work, promoting the sharing of knowledge, resources, and
44 good practices.

45 8.2. Youth workers shall strive to build positive relationships and partnerships that benefit young
46 people and contribute to the development of the youth work sector.

47 9. Advocacy and Social Justice

48 9.1. Youth workers shall advocate for the rights, needs, and interests of young people, promoting
49 social justice, equity, and positive social change.

50 9.2. Youth workers shall challenge discrimination, inequality, and injustice, and shall work
51 towards creating inclusive societies that provide equal opportunities for all young people.

52 10. Compliance with Laws and Ethical Standards

53 10.1. Youth workers shall comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards
54 governing youth work in the Philippines.

55 10.2. [For Youth Work Research and Training Center Employee and Partners*] Youth workers
56 shall be familiar with and adhere to the policies and guidelines of the Center for Youth Work
57 Research and Training Center, ensuring that their practice aligns with its mission and values.

58

59 *Can be modified by adopting organizations

60 Members of PYDN’s Impact Circle may request copy of the Code of Ethics with Explanatory Notes by
61 emailing your official request to impactcircle@pydn.org under the Subject: [Official Membership
62 Code]_Request for CoEYW_Notes.

63

64 Endorsed and Adopted By:

65

66 Name, Designation and Signature of Representatives

67 Name of the organization

68 [Signature Sheet]
 69 Code of Ethics for Youth Work Practice [with Explanatory Notes]
70 Developed by the Center for Youth Work Research and Training Center in partnership with Positive Youth
71 Development Network’s Impact Circle Members
72
73 1. Professionalism and Integrity

74 1.1. Upholding Professionalism, Integrity, and Ethical Conduct:

75 Youth workers play a crucial role in the lives of young people, and it is essential that they
76 maintain the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct in their
77 interactions. This subcomponent emphasizes the importance of conducting oneself in a manner
78 that is respectful, responsible, and trustworthy when engaging with young people, colleagues,
79 and the community.

80 Professionalism entails adhering to a set of ethical principles and standards of practice,

81 maintaining appropriate boundaries, and demonstrating a commitment to the well-being and
82 best interests of young people. It involves conducting oneself in a manner that inspires trust,
83 credibility, and confidence among stakeholders.

84 Integrity is fundamental to youth work and encompasses honesty, transparency, and consistency
85 in actions and decision-making. Youth workers should be guided by a strong sense of personal
86 and professional ethics, demonstrating ethical behavior in their interactions with young people,
87 colleagues, and the wider community.

88 By upholding professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct, youth workers create a safe and
89 conducive environment for young people to grow, learn, and thrive. It establishes a foundation
90 of trust and mutual respect, promoting positive relationships and effective youth work practice.

91

92 1.2. Commitment to Continuous Professional Development:

93 Youth work is a dynamic field that constantly evolves, driven by new research, practices, and
94 policies. This subcomponent emphasizes the importance of youth workers' commitment to
95 continuous professional development to stay updated and informed about the latest
96 developments in the field.

97 Continuous professional development involves actively seeking opportunities for learning,

98 growth, and improvement. It includes engaging in training programs, attending workshops,
99 conferences, and seminars, pursuing further education, and staying informed about current
100 research and best practices in youth work.

101 By staying abreast of current practices, research, and policies, youth workers can enhance their
102 knowledge, skills, and abilities to better support and meet the needs of young people. It enables
103 them to adapt to changing contexts, address emerging challenges, and implement effective
104 strategies in their work.

105 Commitment to continuous professional development also reflects a dedication to excellence

106 and a willingness to reflect upon and refine one's practice. It promotes a culture of lifelong
107 learning and professional growth, ensuring that youth workers remain effective, informed, and
108 responsive to the evolving needs of young people and the broader community.

109

110 2. Respect for Dignity and Diversity

111 2.1. Respect for Dignity, Worth, and Rights:

112 This item emphasizes the importance of youth workers respecting the inherent dignity, worth,
113 and rights of all young people, regardless of their background, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual
114 orientation, or abilities. It requires youth workers to treat each young person with fairness,
115 respect, and dignity, acknowledging and valuing their individuality.

116 Respecting the dignity of young people involves recognizing their autonomy, agency, and
117 personal experiences. It means honoring their perspectives, opinions, and contributions, and
118 actively involving them in decision-making processes that affect their lives.

119 Furthermore, this item highlights the need for youth workers to uphold the rights of young
120 people as enshrined in national and international legal frameworks, such as the United Nations
121 Convention on the Rights of the Child. It requires youth workers to advocate for and protect the
122 rights of young people, ensuring their safety, well-being, and equal opportunities.

123

124 2.2. Creation of Inclusive Environments:

125 This item emphasizes the importance of youth workers in creating inclusive environments that
126 embrace diversity, promote equality, and celebrate individual differences. It highlights the need
127 to foster an inclusive culture where all young people feel valued, respected, and included.

128 Creating inclusive environments involves actively challenging discrimination, prejudice, and
129 stereotypes. It requires youth workers to create spaces that are welcoming and safe for young
130 people from diverse backgrounds, including different ethnicities, genders, religions, sexual
131 orientations, and abilities.

132 Promoting equality within these environments means ensuring that all young people have equal
133 access to opportunities, resources, and support. It involves addressing systemic barriers and
134 working towards the elimination of discrimination and inequality.

135 Furthermore, celebrating individual differences means appreciating and valuing the unique
136 qualities, talents, and perspectives that each young person brings. It involves creating a culture
137 that embraces diversity and promotes the positive aspects of individuality.

138 By creating inclusive environments that embrace diversity, promote equality, and celebrate
139 individual differences, youth workers foster a sense of belonging and empower young people to
140 fully participate and thrive in their communities.

141

142
143 3. Confidentiality and Privacy

144 3.1. Maintenance of Strict Confidentiality:

145 This item emphasizes the importance of youth workers maintaining strict confidentiality
146 regarding personal information and issues shared by young people. Confidentiality is essential
147 for building trust and creating a safe space for young people to seek support and share their
148 concerns.

149 Youth workers are entrusted with sensitive information about young people, including their
150 personal experiences, struggles, and vulnerabilities. Respecting confidentiality means that youth
151 workers do not disclose this information to others, unless there is a clear and imminent risk of
152 harm to the young person or others. In such cases, appropriate steps should be taken to ensure
153 the safety and well-being of those involved.

154 By maintaining strict confidentiality, youth workers demonstrate their commitment to protecting
155 the privacy and trust of young people. It allows young people to feel secure and confident in
156 seeking help and guidance, knowing that their personal information will be kept confidential.

157 3.2. Obtaining Appropriate Consent:

158 This item emphasizes the importance of youth workers obtaining appropriate consent before
159 collecting, using, or sharing any personal information of young people. It underscores the need
160 to respect young people's autonomy and right to privacy.

161 Youth workers should seek informed consent from young people or their legal guardians,
162 depending on their age and legal capacity, before gathering any personal information. Informed
163 consent involves providing clear and understandable information about the purpose, scope, and
164 potential uses of the information collected.

165 Obtaining consent also requires youth workers to adhere to relevant laws and regulations
166 regarding data protection and privacy. It is important to ensure that the collection, use, and
167 sharing of personal information align with legal requirements and ethical standards.

168 By obtaining appropriate consent, youth workers demonstrate respect for the privacy and
169 autonomy of young people. It fosters a sense of trust and transparency in the youth worker-
170 youth relationship and ensures that young people have control over their personal information.

171

172 4. Safety and Well-being

173 4.1. Prioritizing Safety and Well-being:

174 This item highlights the paramount importance of youth workers prioritizing the safety and well-
175 being of young people. It underscores the responsibility of youth workers to take all necessary
176 steps to protect young people from harm, abuse, exploitation, and neglect.

177 Youth workers must be vigilant and proactive in identifying and addressing any risks or potential
178 dangers that young people may face. This includes implementing appropriate safeguarding
179 measures, creating awareness about potential risks, and intervening when necessary to ensure
180 the safety of young people.

181 Additionally, youth workers should be trained in recognizing signs of abuse, exploitation, or
182 neglect and know how to respond appropriately. They should collaborate with relevant
183 authorities, organizations, and support networks to provide necessary interventions and support
184 for young people in vulnerable situations.

185 By prioritizing the safety and well-being of young people, youth workers create an environment
186 where young people can trust and feel protected. It establishes a foundation of care and support
187 that is crucial for their growth, development, and overall well-being.

188 4.2. Establishing and Maintaining Safe Environments:

189 This item emphasizes the responsibility of youth workers to establish and maintain safe and
190 secure environments for young people. It encompasses addressing potential risks and promoting
191 the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of young people.

192 Youth workers should ensure that the physical spaces where youth activities take place are safe,
193 free from hazards, and accessible to all. They should also create an environment that is
194 emotionally and psychologically supportive, promoting positive mental health and well-being.

195 This item also emphasizes the need to address any potential risks, such as bullying,
196 discrimination, or harmful behaviors, and take appropriate measures to prevent and respond to
197 them. Youth workers should implement policies, procedures, and codes of conduct that establish
198 clear boundaries and expectations for behavior within the youth work setting.

199 By establishing and maintaining safe environments, youth workers create spaces where young
200 people can feel secure, respected, and supported. It allows young people to explore, learn, and
201 grow without fear of harm or negative experiences.

202 Empowerment and Participation

203 5.1. Empowering Young People:

204 This item emphasizes the role of youth workers in empowering young people by promoting their
205 active participation, involvement, and decision-making in matters that affect their lives. It
206 recognizes the importance of young people having a voice, agency, and influence over decisions
207 that impact them.

208 Youth workers should create opportunities for young people to actively participate and
209 contribute to the planning, development, and evaluation of programs, activities, and policies
210 that affect them. This includes involving young people in decision-making processes, seeking
211 their input and perspectives, and valuing their contributions.

212 By empowering young people, youth workers help them develop a sense of ownership,
213 responsibility, and self-efficacy. It fosters their confidence, leadership skills, and ability to
214 advocate for themselves and their communities. Ultimately, it enables young people to have a
215 positive impact on their own lives and the wider society.
216 5.2. Supporting Personal Growth and Self-Determination:

217 This item highlights the role of youth workers in encouraging and supporting young people to
218 develop their skills, talents, and potential. It underscores the importance of fostering personal
219 growth and self-determination among young people.

220 Youth workers should provide guidance, mentorship, and opportunities for young people to
221 explore and develop their skills, interests, and talents. They should create a nurturing and
222 supportive environment that encourages young people to set and pursue their goals, fostering a
223 sense of purpose and self-confidence.

224 Supporting personal growth and self-determination also involves recognizing and affirming
225 young people's strengths and unique qualities. Youth workers should provide resources,
226 opportunities, and support systems that enable young people to navigate challenges, overcome
227 obstacles, and realize their full potential.

228 By supporting personal growth and self-determination, youth workers contribute to the holistic
229 development of young people. They help young people cultivate their talents, build resilience,
230 and develop the skills and mindset necessary for their future success and well-being.

231 Ethical Use of Power and Authority

232 6.1. Responsible Exercise of Power and Authority:

233 This item emphasizes the importance of youth workers exercising their power and authority
234 responsibly, with the primary aim of benefiting young people and the community. It recognizes
235 the inherent power imbalance in the youth worker-youth relationship and underscores the need
236 for youth workers to use their position responsibly and ethically.

237 Youth workers should be mindful of their influence and ensure that their actions and decisions
238 are guided by the best interests of young people. They should avoid using their power for
239 personal gain or to exert control over young people. Instead, they should prioritize the
240 empowerment, well-being, and growth of young people, promoting their rights and agency.

241 Responsible exercise of power and authority involves transparency, accountability, and open
242 communication with young people. It requires youth workers to involve young people in
243 decision-making processes and respect their autonomy and choices.

244 By exercising power and authority responsibly, youth workers build trust and credibility among
245 young people and the community. It promotes a collaborative and empowering youth work
246 practice, where young people are active participants in shaping their own lives and the broader
247 community.

248 6.2. Avoidance of Exploitation, Manipulation, and Favoritism:

249 This item emphasizes the need for youth workers to avoid any form of exploitation,
250 manipulation, or favoritism and to treat all young people with fairness, respect, and dignity. It
251 recognizes the vulnerability of young people and the importance of maintaining professional
252 boundaries and ethical conduct.
253 Youth workers should never exploit or take advantage of their position for personal gain or
254 manipulate young people for their own benefit. They should ensure that their interactions with
255 young people are based on trust, honesty, and respect.

256 Furthermore, youth workers should treat all young people equitably, without favoritism or bias.
257 They should value and respect the diversity and individuality of each young person, providing
258 equal opportunities, support, and guidance.

259 By avoiding exploitation, manipulation, and favoritism, youth workers create a safe and inclusive
260 environment where young people can trust and feel valued. It upholds the ethical principles of
261 fairness, integrity, and respect in youth work practice, fostering positive and meaningful
262 relationships between youth workers and young people.

263 Accountability and Professional Boundaries

264 7.1. Accountability for Professional Actions and Decisions:

265 This item highlights the importance of youth workers being accountable for their professional
266 actions and decisions. It emphasizes that youth workers should take responsibility for the
267 consequences of their work, both positive and negative.

268 Being accountable means that youth workers are aware of the impact of their actions on young
269 people, colleagues, and the community. It requires them to act ethically, transparently, and in
270 accordance with professional standards and guidelines.

271 Youth workers should be reflective practitioners, continuously assessing and evaluating their
272 work to ensure its effectiveness and ethical soundness. They should be open to feedback, willing
273 to learn from their mistakes, and committed to improving their practice.

274 By being accountable for their professional actions and decisions, youth workers build trust and
275 credibility in their work. It demonstrates their commitment to the well-being and best interests
276 of young people, ensuring that their actions are aligned with the principles and values of youth
277 work.

278 7.2. Establishment of Clear Professional Boundaries:

279 This item emphasizes the need for youth workers to establish clear professional boundaries with
280 young people. It recognizes the importance of maintaining appropriate relationships and
281 avoiding conflicts of interest.

282 Establishing clear professional boundaries means that youth workers maintain a professional
283 distance and ensure that their interactions with young people are respectful, appropriate, and
284 within the defined scope of their role. It involves setting and maintaining clear expectations
285 regarding roles, responsibilities, and boundaries.

286 Youth workers should avoid engaging in personal relationships or activities that could
287 compromise the objectivity, integrity, or professionalism of their work. They should refrain from
288 exploiting their position or engaging in behavior that may harm young people or compromise
289 their welfare.
290 By establishing clear professional boundaries, youth workers create a safe and professional
291 environment for young people. It ensures that the focus remains on supporting and empowering
292 young people, maintaining professional integrity, and avoiding potential conflicts of interest that
293 could compromise the quality and effectiveness of youth work practice.

294 Collaboration and Networking

295 8.1. Active Collaboration and Networking:

296 This item highlights the importance of youth workers actively collaborating and networking with
297 other professionals, organizations, and stakeholders in the field of youth work. It recognizes that
298 effective collaboration and networking can lead to the sharing of knowledge, resources, and
299 good practices, ultimately benefiting young people.

300 Youth workers should actively seek out opportunities to collaborate with professionals and
301 organizations in the youth work sector. This can involve joint projects, shared training initiatives,
302 or partnerships to address common challenges and achieve common goals. By collaborating,
303 youth workers can leverage the expertise, resources, and experiences of others to enhance their
304 own practice.

305 Networking with other professionals and stakeholders also plays a crucial role in youth work.
306 Youth workers can participate in conferences, workshops, and community forums to connect
307 with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and stay updated with current trends and research
308 in the field. By networking, youth workers can foster relationships that lead to learning,
309 mentorship, and potential collaborations.

310 Active collaboration and networking help to create a vibrant and interconnected youth work
311 sector. It promotes the sharing of knowledge, experiences, and resources, fostering innovation,
312 and advancing the quality of youth work practice. Ultimately, it benefits young people by
313 ensuring that youth workers are well-informed and equipped to provide the best possible
314 support and opportunities.

315 8.2. Building Positive Relationships and Partnerships:

316 This item emphasizes the importance of youth workers striving to build positive relationships
317 and partnerships that benefit young people and contribute to the development of the youth
318 work sector. It recognizes that strong relationships and partnerships are fundamental to effective
319 youth work practice.

320 Youth workers should prioritize building positive relationships with young people, colleagues,
321 and stakeholders. This involves establishing trust, mutual respect, and open lines of
322 communication. By developing strong relationships with young people, youth workers can better
323 understand their needs, aspirations, and challenges, and provide appropriate guidance and
324 support.

325 Youth workers should also actively seek partnerships with community organizations, schools,
326 government agencies, and other relevant stakeholders. Building partnerships allows for a
327 collaborative and holistic approach to supporting young people. It enables the pooling of
328 resources, expertise, and networks to create comprehensive and sustainable solutions that
329 address the diverse needs of young people.

330 Building positive relationships and partnerships benefits young people by providing them with a
331 wider range of opportunities, services, and support. It also contributes to the development of
332 the youth work sector by fostering cooperation, knowledge sharing, and collective impact. By
333 working together, youth workers and their partners can create a more inclusive, responsive, and
334 impactful youth work practice.

335 Advocacy and Social Justice

336 9.1. Advocacy for the Rights, Needs, and Interests of Young People:

337 This item highlights the importance of youth workers advocating for the rights, needs, and
338 interests of young people. It recognizes that youth workers have a responsibility to promote
339 social justice, equity, and positive social change on behalf of the young people they serve.

340 Youth workers should be champions for young people's rights, ensuring that they are aware of
341 their entitlements and supporting them in exercising their rights. This includes advocating for
342 access to quality education, healthcare, employment opportunities, and participation in
343 decision-making processes. Youth workers should also work towards addressing systemic
344 barriers and inequalities that hinder young people's development and well-being.

345 Advocacy by youth workers involves raising awareness, mobilizing support, and influencing
346 policy and practice to create positive change. It may include engaging in public campaigns,
347 collaborating with community organizations, and participating in policy dialogues and advocacy
348 networks.

349 By advocating for the rights, needs, and interests of young people, youth workers empower
350 young people to have a voice and contribute to shaping their own lives and communities. It
351 promotes social justice, equity, and inclusivity, and ensures that young people are given the
352 opportunities and resources they need to thrive.

353 9.2. Challenging Discrimination, Inequality, and Injustice:

354 This item emphasizes the role of youth workers in challenging discrimination, inequality, and
355 injustice. It recognizes that youth workers should actively work towards creating inclusive
356 societies that provide equal opportunities for all young people, regardless of their background or
357 circumstances.

358 Youth workers should actively challenge discriminatory practices, biases, and prejudices that
359 young people may face based on factors such as race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation,
360 disability, or socioeconomic status. They should promote equality and inclusion by fostering a
361 safe and respectful environment for all young people to thrive.

362 Furthermore, youth workers should advocate for systemic changes that address structural
363 inequalities and injustices. This may involve collaborating with community organizations,
364 policymakers, and other stakeholders to create policies and initiatives that promote social equity
365 and equal opportunities.
366 By challenging discrimination, inequality, and injustice, youth workers create a more inclusive
367 and just society for young people. They ensure that young people have equal access to
368 resources, opportunities, and support systems. By addressing systemic barriers, youth workers
369 contribute to creating a more equitable future, where all young people can reach their full
370 potential.

371 Compliance with Laws and Ethical Standards

372 10.1. Compliance with Applicable Laws, Regulations, and Ethical Standards:

373 This item emphasizes the importance of youth workers complying with all applicable laws,
374 regulations, and ethical standards governing youth work in the Philippines. It recognizes that
375 adherence to legal and ethical frameworks is essential for maintaining professionalism and
376 ensuring the well-being of young people.

377 Youth workers should be knowledgeable about the laws and regulations that govern youth work
378 in the Philippines, including child protection laws, labor laws, and relevant policies related to
379 youth development. They should ensure that their practice aligns with these legal requirements
380 and uphold the rights and safety of young people.

381 Furthermore, youth workers should adhere to ethical standards that guide their professional
382 conduct. This includes maintaining confidentiality, respecting boundaries, practicing cultural
383 sensitivity, and acting in the best interests of young people. By adhering to ethical standards,
384 youth workers build trust and credibility in their work, both with young people and the wider
385 community.

386 Compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards demonstrates the
387 commitment of youth workers to upholding professional standards and ensuring the highest
388 level of care and protection for young people.

389 10.2. [For PYDN Employee and Partners] Adherence to the Center’s Policies and Guidelines:

390 This item highlights the importance of youth workers being familiar with and adhering to the
391 policies and guidelines of the Center for Youth Work Research and Training Center. It recognizes
392 that the Center plays a significant role in setting the standards and direction for youth work
393 practice.

394 Youth workers should familiarize themselves with the mission, values, and goals of the Center for
395 Youth Work Research and Training Center. They should understand the policies and guidelines
396 established by the Center and ensure that their practice aligns with them.

397 Adherence to the Center's policies and guidelines helps youth workers maintain consistency and
398 quality in their practice. It ensures that their work is in line with the vision and principles of the
399 Center, contributing to the overall development and advancement of the youth work sector in
400 the Philippines.

401 By adhering to the Center's policies and guidelines, youth workers demonstrate their
402 commitment to professional excellence and the continuous improvement of their practice. It
403 also fosters a sense of unity and collaboration among youth workers, as they work collectively
404 towards achieving the goals and objectives set by the Center.

405