Ethics & Good Causes
Our aim is to enable good things to happen in the world. As well as constantly developing excellence in what we do to enable clients to do their good things, we also take action in more direct ways. Here are a few things we commit to, that we’ve recently been involved in, and that we continue to do.
Code of Ethics
Coaching Professionals adheres to the ICF Code of Ethics. This gives you the protection of knowing that everything you do with us is covered by a globally respected authorititative guide to coaching philosophy and standards of conduct.
Supporting those working for the Environment
Our latest initiative brings together a wide range of businesses committed and active in Green business, working together with Sussex Wildlife Trust and businesses and agents of change in Sussex. Focussing on the question "How do we create business success in a way that is good for people and the planet?" the "pioneers" are meeting and exploring what is important for each of them and how to take this forward and make a real impact in their own businesses, and in the region. It's leading to sharing best practices, ideas and knowledge, by inspiring each other (and maybe a little competitive edge :-)). Call or write to us if you are interested in joining in. This is for players, not spectators.
To support businesses in achieving sustainable change, and in recognition of what they have given to Sussex Wildlife Trust, we also provide free inter-active seminars. The recent ones include "Sustainability and Innovation in business - naturally" and "Sustainability - Getting buy-in from senior management".
Raising money for Good Causes
In summer 2011 Neil and friend Jonathan canoed from Bath to Godalming to raise money for Orbit Shed. Orbit is a children's charity which uses inclusive theatre to enable 7-17 year olds of all abilities (and disabilities) and backgrounds to come together, support each other, grow in confidence and put on wonderful and highly moving performances. You can see pictures and read more here
We like to support people doing good things for goos causes. At the moment two of our friends are out there cycling for charity: Darren Robson is going to Paris raising money for the British Heart Foundation and Nicky Forsyth is off to John O'Groats for KidsCo - we're delighted to be adding our bit to their fundraising.
In 2009 and 2011 we sponsored the Mayor's Gala Evening for Redhill and Reigate,helping to raise money for local charities.
We also give ‘Charity Taster Sessions'. In these, potential clients get their ‘free’ coaching session on the condition that at the end of the session they write a cheque for charity. They choose which charity, and they choose how much they give. It's entirely up to them. But something is given. Charities that have recently benefited include Age Concern, the British Red Cross, the Multiple Sclerosis Society, Sussex Wildlife Trust and Orbit Shed Inclusive Theatre Company.
We're delighted to be Corporate Members of Sussex Wildlife Trust. You can visit them and their great work at www.sussexwt.org.uk.
Helping "at risk" and unemployed managers Neil, Richard and Alister are all involved in a project managed by the University of Surrey School of Management, that provides coaching free to managers affected by the current economic climate. These are challenging times. Enabling good managers to turn around difficult situations and get back into employment is good for them, the businesses they join or start and the wider community and economy.
Making a Difference
Neil Scotton, in his role as President of the International Coach Federation in the UK 2008 and 2009, played a key role in organising "Coaching as an Integral Part of Society - Making a Difference NOW!" This major event brought together 130+ people from the UK and Europe and we were joined by webcast from 17 locations across the planet. Attendees included coaches, professionals, those with corporate social responsibility agendas and leaders of good causes. Held on October 23rd in London, it was kindly sponsored by BT (who provided their conference venue and interactive web broadcast), the London Coaching Group and The Forton Group. Our recent joint survey with Coaching at Work magazine found work being done by coaches and organisations in such areas as:
• Integrating CSR into leadership development • Helping children at school and working as a role model for them • Sponsorship of female survivors of war • Working with disaffected students/unemployed • Mentoring for women in enterprise • Inner-city regeneration • Working with people in recovery from drug or alcohol addiction • Working with developing countries • Working with people in mental distress • Working with leaders of not-for-profit organisations.
Doing the little things...
We want to also take practical steps to be environmentally and socially friendly. When we buy goods and services we prefer to use local suppliers, and where available sustainable sourcing. And when there's an option we prefer to take the train.