Mobile Art School in Kenya (MASK)

CODE OF CONDUCT

MASK's Code of Conduct is based on long standing and respected principals espoused in the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Code of Conduct:

Principle Commitments:

1.                   Our main purpose is to offer children the opportunity to participate in the arts and to enjoy them, sharing the benefits. 

2.                   All MASK representatives must sign up to and abide by MASK's Child Protection Policy and Child Protection Code of Conduct.  We will do all that we can to ensure that children and young people's experience of our organisation is one that is free from any form of exploitation or abuse and that they feel respected and safe. Anyone representing our organisation is expected to adhere at all times (both in their private and professional lives) to the highest standards of behaviour towards children, young people and their families. Wherever there are concerns regarding our representatives, they will be investigated honestly and fairly with due regard to internal disciplinary procedures and national legal procedures.

3.                   We shall work without discriminating against any group or individual on the basis of race, ethnic groups, gender, political opinion, age etc. While those working for MASK, or otherwise associated with it, are free to espouse their own political or religious opinions, we affirm that we shall treat with complete fairness and impartiality all those with whom we deal;  we shall not make the promise or delivery of assistance conditional upon the acceptance of any particular political or religious belief.

4.                   Our work will not be used to further a particular political or religious standpoint.

5.                   We value and promote the voluntary giving of labour and finances by concerned individuals to support our work.

6.                   We shall endeavour to respect the culture, structures and customs of the communities and countries we are working in.  All efforts should be made to learn about these cultures and customs by our volunteers.  Where possible, we will work with and seek advice from local NGOs and co-operate with local government structures where appropriate.

7.                   Our work should never be imposed upon the beneficiaries. To be effective we shall involve children, schools, parents and local communities where possible in the implementation of our programme. We shall act only with full community support of our programmes.

8.                   We hold ourselves accountable both to those whom we assist and to those from whom we accept resources.  All our dealings with donors and beneficiaries shall reflect an attitude of openness and transparency. We recognise the need to report on our activities, both from a financial perspective and the perspective of effectiveness. We recognise the obligation to ensure appropriate monitoring. We will also seek to report, in an open fashion, upon the impact of our work, and the factors limiting or enhancing that impact. Our programmes will be based upon high standards of professionalism and expertise in order to minimise the wasting of valuable resources.

9.                   In our information, publicity and advertising activities, we shall always seek to highlight the hopeful and enriching side of Africa and to demonstrate a cultural and artistic need and talent that emphasises our common humanity in a positive way.