The Justice Center Code of Conduct for Custodians of People with Special Needs

Introduction
The Justice Center Code of Conduct, as set forth in the Code of Conduct itself, sets forth a framework intended to
assist impacted employees to help people with special needs “live self-directed,
meaningful lives in their communities, free from abuse and neglect, and protected from harm,” in
addition to the specific guidance provided by the agency’s policies and training.

Similarly, the Notice to Mandated Reporters contains guidance designed to assist mandated reporters
and is intended to provide a summary of reporting obligations for mandated reporters. It is not
intended to supplement or in any way add to the reporting obligations provided by law, rule, or
regulation.

As provided by law, rule, or regulation, only custodians who have or will have regular and direct
contact with vulnerable persons receiving services or support from facilities or providers covered
by the Justice Center Act must sign that they have read and understand the Code of Conduct.

The framework provides:

1. Person-Centered Approach

My primary duty is to the people who receive supports and services from this organization. I
acknowledge that each person of suitable age must have the opportunity to direct his or her own
life, honoring, where consistent with agency policy, their right to assume risk in a safe manner,
and recognizing each person’s potential for lifelong learning and growth. I understand that my job
will require flexibility, creativity and commitment. Whenever consistent with agency policy, I will
work to support the individual’s preferences and interests.

2. Physical, Emotional and Personal Well-being

I will promote the physical, emotional and personal well-being of any person who receives services
and supports from this organization, including their protection from abuse and neglect and reducing
their risk of harm to others and themselves.

3. Respect, Dignity and Choice

I will respect the dignity and individuality of any person who receives services and supports from
this organization and honor their choices and preferences whenever possible and consistent with
agency policy. I will help people receiving supports and services use the opportunities and
resources available to all in the community, whenever possible and consistent with agency policy.

4. Self-Determination

I will help people receiving supports and services realize their rights and responsibilities, and,
as consistent with agency policy, make informed decisions and understand their options
related to their physical health and emotional well-being.

5. Relationships
I will help people who receive services and supports from this organization maintain or develop
healthy relationships with family and friends. I will support them in making informed choices about
safely expressing their sexuality and other preferences, whenever possible and consistent with
agency policy.

6. Advocacy
I will advocate for justice, inclusion and community participation with, or on behalf of, any
person who receives services and supports from this organization, as consistent with agency
policy. I will promote justice, fairness and equality, and respect their human, civil and legal
rights.

7. Personal Health Information and Confidentiality

I understand that persons served by my organization have the right to privacy and
confidentiality with respect to their personal health information and I will protect this
information from unauthorized use or disclosure, except as required or permitted by law, rule, or
regulation.

8. Non-Discrimination

I will not discriminate against people receiving services and supports or colleagues based on race,
religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, economic condition,
disability, or any other protected class under the law.

9. Integrity, Responsibility and Professional Competency

I will reinforce the values of this organization when it does not compromise the well-being of any
person who receives services and supports. I will maintain my skills and competency
through continued learning, including all training provided by this organization. I will actively
seek advice and guidance of others whenever I am uncertain about an appropriate course of action. I
will not misrepresent my professional qualifications or affiliations. I will demonstrate model
behavior to all, including persons receiving services and supports.

10. Reporting Requirement

As a mandated reporter, I acknowledge my legal obligation under Social Services Law § 491, as may
be amended from time to time or superseded, to report all allegations of reportable incidents
immediately upon discovery to the Justice Center’s Vulnerable Persons’ Central Register by calling
1-855-373-2122.