Facilitators Code of Conduct

There is deep and abiding trust in those who have done so much for SMART Recovery, justified by the high standards and principles they have traditionally shown. This code of conduct makes explicit the focus and ethics expected of facilitators.

Fulfil the core tasks

Abide by the Facilitators code of conduct.

Complete the authorised Facilitator and Champion Training.

Register meetings with central office.

Run meetings according to the SMART Recovery meeting structure.

Ensure the Opening Statement is read out at every meeting.

Share the Meeting Guidelines at every meeting.

Promote independence from addictive behaviour

We promote independence from addictive behaviour using the principles and tools of SMART Recovery. Where a participant’s goals are outside the scope of SMART Recovery, we will encourage them to seek other sources of support.

Respect the dignity and diversity of participants

We strive to treat each meeting participant with care and respect and be mindful of individual differences. We strive to understand and respect issues of social diversity including race, ethnicity, national origin, colour, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital / partner status, political belief, religion, and mental or physical ability.

Act with integrity

We strive to act honestly and responsibly, and to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the goals and principles of SMART Recovery.

Honour commitments

We make a strong effort to show up on time, arrange cover if we cannot attend, keep communication channels open with participants and strive to run meetings in line with the ethos of the organisation.

Pursue knowledge and competence

We learn about the tools and methods of SMART Recovery and seek to continually build up our understanding and skills.

Project confidentiality

We respect participants’ right to privacy, both within and outside of meetings. We will not solicit or disclose private information unless failure to do so may put someone at risk.

Safeguard vulnerable people

If a participant appears to be at imminent risk of harm or there is evidence they are putting a vulnerable person at risk, we will discuss our concerns with the SMART Recovery regional coordinator or central office and / or seek advice as whether it is necessary to inform the Local Authority Safeguarding team, Police or other authorities. There may be a legal requirement to report disclosures relating to abuse or risk of harm to a vulnerable person.

Avoid conflicts of interest

We will not exploit a participant or meeting to further our own personal, religious, political or business interests. We will strive to be alert to and avoid conflicts of interest.

Avoid harassment

We will not engage in any form of harassment or exploitative sexual relationships of meeting participants.

Work together

We will strive to work cooperatively with other members of the SMART Recovery organisation, and acknowledge the positive contributions of other programmes that aim to help people gain independence from addictive behaviour.

Provide Accurate Representation

We will make a clear distinction between statements made as a private individual and those made as representatives of SMART Recovery. We will represent ourselves as knowledgeable only within the scope of our experience.