Safeguarding & Ethics

Our Ethical Standards

We are committed to the following five ethical principles:

• Kindness & Non-violence: We act with care and try our best to avoid causing harm. Physical violence and strong expressions of anger are therefore not welcome and the Centre is vegetarian.
• Generosity: We practice open-handedness and do not steal from or exploit others. Individuals in positions of trust and authority must not misuse their position - real or perceived - for their own benefit or to influence others inappropriately.
• Contentment & Sexual Misconduct: The Buddha encourages us to cultivate a lifestyle of simplicity and stillness. We are aware that the inspiration that can arise when hearing the Buddha’s teaching can be confused with attraction to the individual teacher sharing it, so it is highly inadvisable for those in positions of responsibility to enter into sexual relationships with those new to our community.
• Truthfulness: We are committed to truthful, meaningful, helpful, and harmonious communication - both written and verbal. We encourage ethical reflection on past actions, and disclosure where appropriate.
• Mindfulness: The Buddhist path is concerned with the deepening of our awareness. As such, alcohol and other intoxicants are not permitted on our premises, and we ask everyone to put away their phones.

You can read more about our practice of these five ethical principles by reading our code of conduct policy below. 

‍Raising a Concern

If something doesn’t feel right we want to hear from you:

• Complaints & Feedback: If you have a concern regarding a person’s conduct, a disagreement or something about your experience at the Centre, please write to our centre manager here . (We are in the process of producing a complaints procedure that will, in time, be published on this page). 
• Safeguarding Issues: You can find our safeguarding policies below. If you have a concern regarding the safety or protection of a child or an adult at risk, please write immediately, and in confidence, to: safeguarding@northlondonbuddhistcentre.com

‍Safeguarding Policies

We have a duty of care to prevent or address harm to all children and adults in the course of our activities (including adults who may be at risk of harm or have support needs). 

The safety and wellbeing of everyone who visits the Centre - especially children and vulnerable adults - is a priority for us. You can read our safeguarding policies here: 

• NLBC Ethical Guidelines ->
• Adult Safeguarding Policy ->
• Child Protection Policy ->
• Child Protection Code of Conduct ->

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