Understanding the Code of Conduct in Health and Social Care

The Role of the Code

The code of conduct health and social care serves as a guiding framework for professionals working in health and adult social care settings in England. It outlines the behaviours, attitudes and standards that healthcare support workers must adhere to. skillsforcare.org.uk+2Skills for Health+2

Far more than a set of rules, it reflects a commitment to delivering safe, effective, compassionate support to service-users, safeguarding their rights and promoting their wellbeing.

By adhering to this code, practitioners demonstrate what service-users, employers and the wider health and social care sector can rightly expect: good practice, professional behaviour and the highest standard of conduct.

Key Elements of the Code of Conduct in Health & Social Care

The code of conduct for healthcare support workers covers a range of standards around behaviour, attitude and performance. Below are the main themes every practitioner should know and embody:

• Accountability – Being able to answer for your actions or omissions.

• Promoting Privacy, Dignity, Rights & Well-being – Ensuring service-users and carers are treated with respect at all times.

• Collaboration & Team-work – Working with colleagues, carers and other professionals to deliver safe, compassionate support.

• Effective Communication – Being open, clear and truthful in all interactions (with service-users, carers and colleagues).

• Confidentiality – Respecting the rights and privacy of those in your care.

• Professional Development – Continuously improving your skills to provide better care and support.

• Equality, Diversity & Inclusion – Treating people fairly, without discrimination, and promoting inclusive practice.

Here are the specific standards as laid out in the formal code:

1. Be accountable for your actions or omissions.

2. Promote and uphold the privacy, dignity, rights, health and wellbeing of people using health and care services and their carers at all times.

3. Work in collaboration with your colleagues to ensure the delivery of high quality, safe and compassionate healthcare, care and support.

4. Communicate in an open and effective way to promote health, safety and wellbeing.

5. Respect a person’s right to confidentiality.

6. Strive to improve the quality of healthcare, care and support through continuing professional development.

7. Uphold and promote equality, diversity and inclusion.

Your Next Step

Understanding and adhering to the code of conduct health and social care isn’t just about meeting professional standards—it’s about making a positive difference for people. By embracing the code, you ensure your practice is both ethical and effective.

At Prospero Health and Social Care Recruitment, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re just starting out as a healthcare support worker or seeking to broaden your experience within adult social care, we offer opportunities, training, guidance and community.