Performance Under Pressure (PUP) Code of Ethics

Introduction

The Performance Under Pressure (PUP) Code of Ethics is a comprehensive guide outlining the moral foundations, principles, and standards for behaviour in all PUP-related interactions. This framework is crucial in fostering an environment of ethical practice, achieved through understanding and consistent application of these values and standards.

The PUP Code of Ethics aims to:

  • Establish conduct guidelines that align with PUP's fundamental values and ethical principles.

  • Provide a basis for ethical reflection, education, and decision-making.

This framework applies to all individuals representing PUP in any coaching or performance-related roles, regardless of whether a formal coaching relationship is established. It details the ethical responsibilities of those serving in various capacities, such as coaches, performers, leaders, and support staff.

Adherence to ethical conduct, anchored in PUP's core values and ethical principles, is paramount. PUP professionals are expected to navigate ethical challenges, resolve dilemmas, and find solutions to problems with integrity and courage.

Definitions

  • Client: Any individual, team, ensemble, or group receiving coaching, mentorship, or training from a PUP professional.

  • Coaching: A dynamic and creative process that inspires individuals or groups to maximize their personal and professional potential.

  • Coaching Relationship: A formally established interaction between a PUP professional and client(s)/student(s)/sponsor(s), governed by an agreement outlining mutual responsibilities and expectations.

  • Confidentiality: The safeguarding of information shared within the coaching context, disclosed only with explicit consent.

  • Conflict of Interest: Situations where a PUP professional's various interests (financial, personal, etc.) could potentially conflict.

  • Equality: Ensuring inclusive access to resources and opportunities for all, irrespective of diverse human differences.

  • PUP Professional: Anyone representing PUP in roles such as Coach, Performer, Leader, Teacher, Presenter, Mentor, or Facilitator.

  • PUP Staff: Support personnel contracted by PUP.

  • Sponsor: The entity arranging or financing the coaching services.

  • Support Personnel: Individuals assisting PUP professionals in serving their clients.

  • Systemic Equality: Institutionalized equality in ethics, values, policies, structures, and culture across communities, organizations, and societies.

PUP Core Values and Ethical Principles

PUP's Ethical Framework is rooted in three core values: Growth, Integrity, and Service. These values are crucial for understanding and applying the standards.

Growth: At PUP our commitment to growth extends beyond just our clients; it's a fundamental core value that applies to both ourselves and those we serve. We strive for personal and professional growth alongside our clients, cultivating competence and continually seeking opportunities for learning and development. By fostering a non-judgmental, curious attitude towards our clients, we create a space where trust and honesty thrive. Our dedication to growth empowers our clients to embark on their journey of self-improvement and attain their goals with confidence.

Integrity: Upholding the highest standards of ethics and integrity is integral to everything we do at PUP. We are committed to create a safe and trustworthy environment for our clients, ensuring they have confidence in the coaching and services we provide. With a commitment to ethics, we take full responsibility for guiding our clients and strive for the best possible outcomes in all circumstances. By adhering to the principles of integrity, we ensure that our clients receive not only top-quality coaching but also the assurance that their best interests are at the forefront of our practice.

Service: Our dedication to service revolves around treating each client with the utmost respect, empathy and equality. At PUP, we aim to create a psychologically safe and collaborative partnership with our clients, working together to help them achieve their personal growth and development goals. By connecting deeply with each individual, we foster an environment where clients feel valued and understood. This commitment to service is at the heart of our practice, enabling us to guide and support our clients effectively on their unique journeys to success.

Ethical Standards

PUP professionals adhere to the following standards:

Section I – Responsibility to Coaching Clients

1. Clearly explain the nature of coaching, confidentiality limits, financial arrangements, and other terms at the initial meeting.

2. Establish a contract detailing roles, responsibilities, and rights before services begin.

3. Uphold strict confidentiality, complying with applicable data protection and communication laws.

I will NOT normally release any information about you to anyone else unless you give me a written and signed request to do so. There are some possible exemptions to this rule:

a) If you are involved in a court case and my records are subpoenaed, I would not be allowed to withhold from the court any information you have given me.

b) If there is an overriding legal or social obligation to do so, I may disclose information to the relevant authorities about a client’s serious criminal acts.

c) If you indicate that you seriously intend to hurt or kill yourself or someone else, I am obligated to notify potential helpers or victims.

d) If you are legally a minor (under 18 years of age), I am obliged to keep your parent(s) or guardian(s) informed of your progress, if they ask. But I am not obliged to give them details of my discussions with you.

4. Clarify information exchange processes during coaching interactions.

5. Outline conditions under which confidentiality may not be maintained (e.g., illegal activities, court orders, risk of harm).

6. Manage records securely, respecting privacy and legal requirements, and stay informed about technology in coaching.

7. Monitor the coaching relationship's effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.

8. Respect the right to terminate the coaching relationship, adhering to the agreement terms.

9. Be cautious of multiple contracts/relationships with the same client to avoid conflicts of interest.

10. Manage power or status differences sensitively.

11. Disclose potential compensations from third-party referrals.

12. Ensure consistent coaching quality, regardless of compensation.

Section II – Responsibility to Practice and Performance

13. Uphold the PUP Code of Ethics in all interactions.

14. Ensure support personnel adhere to these ethical standards.

15. Pursue continuous personal and professional development.

16. Recognize and address personal limitations affecting coaching performance.

17. Resolve conflicts of interest through professional assistance or relationship suspension/termination.

Section III – Responsibility to Professionalism

18. Accurately represent coaching competencies, qualifications, and relevant experience.

19. Make truthful statements about PUP offerings and coaching's potential value.

20. Promote awareness of this Code of Ethics.

21. Set clear, culturally sensitive boundaries.

22. Avoid sexual or romantic engagements with clients or sponsors.

Section IV – Responsibility to Society

23. Practice non-discrimination, respecting diversity and local cultural practices.

24. Acknowledge and respect intellectual property rights.

25. Adhere to scientific standards and competence boundaries in research.

26. Be conscious of societal impact, striving for positive contributions.

Pledge of Ethics

As a PUP Professional, I commit to upholding my ethical and legal obligations to clients, sponsors, colleagues, and the public, as outlined in the PUP Code of Ethics.