Code of Ethics for Sober Club Accredited Coaches
Introduction and Purpose
This Code of Behaviour outlines your expected conduct and responsibilities to ensure professional and ethical coaching, fostering a culture of respect, support, and continuous personal and professional growth. As a Sober Club Accredited Coach, you are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity, honesty, and personal responsibility. Your conduct should reflect the core values of The Sober Club and contribute to a supportive and respectful environment. Your commitment is to maintain and promote excellent practice and ethical principles. The Sober Club Accredited Sober Coach Training is affiliated to ‘The Sober Code (www.sobercode.co.uk)
Integrity and Personal Well-Being and maintaining the reputation of the profession.
Always act with integrity and honesty in your professional conduct.
Take care of your own well-being to maintain your effectiveness as a coach.
Behave in a way that reflects positively on the ethos of choosing to be alcohol free. It’s important for clients to know that their coach is solid in their own sobriety. A minimum of one year’s sobriety is advantageous. If your individual circumstances regarding drinking alcohol, or other factors which may affect your integrity have changed, you will seek advice from Janey Lee Grace and suspend any coaching activities to ensure that you are aligned with the professional standards.
Role Clarity
Clearly distinguish your role as a Sober Club Accredited Coach from that of a therapist, counsellor, or addiction specialist. Ensure clients understand that your services are not suitable for addiction recovery or for those who are clinically dependent.
Accurate Representation
Accurately represent your qualifications, competence, and experience. Avoid making misleading or unrealistic claims about the services you provide.
Referral and Resource Recommendation
Be prepared to refer clients to other coaches or resources if you deem them more appropriate for the client’s needs.
Confidentiality
Maintain client confidentiality at all times, unless required by law to disclose information. Protect stored data in compliance with the Data Protection Act, GDPR, and any subsequent amendments.
Obtain written consent from clients before releasing testimonials.
Non-Judgmental Approach
Maintain a non-judgmental attitude in all interactions, respecting clients as free and equal individuals.
Discourage any debates or promotional materials that suggest there is a “best way” to get sober.
Avoid derogatory comments about other services, such as Alcoholics Anonymous.
Advertising and Promotion
Ensure all advertisements and promotional materials comply with UK advertising standards and relevant diversity regulations.
Use The Sober Club Accredited Coach badge/logo appropriately, without implying partnership or endorsement by Janey Lee Grace or The Sober Club.
For Sober Club endorsed events, collaborate directly with Janey Lee Grace.
Professional Conduct
Demonstrate respect for diverse practices and approaches to sobriety.
Behave in a manner that enhances the reputation of the coaching profession and The Sober Club.
Abide by relevant legal and statutory obligations, including safeguarding legislation when working with vulnerable adults.
Conflict of Interest
Disclose any conflicts of interest and manage them to avoid detriment to the client or coach.
Ensure professional relationships remain distinct from personal relationships.
Ongoing Professional Development
Engage in continuing professional development to enhance coaching skills and knowledge.
Seek supervision or peer support to reflect on practice and address ethical dilemmas.
Contribution to The Sober Club Community
Actively work to raise the profile of The Sober Club through your professional activities and encourage clients to join and be part of the supportive environment of The Sober Club.
By adhering to this Code of Behaviour, you will contribute to the integrity and reputation of The Sober Club, fostering a supportive and respectful environment for all clients and members.