Ethics is a set of concepts and principles that guide us. While each individual develops their own moral code, members of a profession have a shared moral code of principles that guide their actions and beliefs about what is right and proper. For members of the community disability services profession in Alberta, those principles and the actions are laid out in the ADWA Code of Professional Ethics and Conduct.
By virtue of their membership in ADWA, members commit to following this code of ethics to the best of their ability in their professional work.
Ethics codes, by their nature, cannot predict every situation that will arise in practice and the ethical choice of action may not be clear. ADWA provides an additional interpretation of some of the more challenging and complex areas of practice. However, there will always be situations that provide ethical dilemmas for professionals. In these circumstances, ADWA joins with other professional associations in recommending that individuals consult with a more experienced professional, such as a supervisor or apply an ethical decision-making process.
ADWA’s Code of Professional Ethics and Conduct
ADWA is the professional association for Alberta’s community disability services workforce. Our Code of Ethics and Conduct is a statement of the guiding principles of our profession and the actions or behaviours that flow from our ethical principles.
As disability professionals, we share common values that guide our decisions as we support individuals with disabilities at home, at work and elsewhere in the community. The people we support have diverse abilities and needs. We are vital to helping people with disabilities live full lives in the community. We have the utmost regard for our integrity, competence and ability to make ethical decisions in the best interests of those we support. We do this because we believe that:
- The best quality supports for Albertans with disabilities will come from a skilled, knowledgeable and principled workforce.
- Professional recognition should be given to disability workers who have skills, knowledge and values.
- Employers should commit to seeking out workers who invest in their professional development and reward the positive results that are seen in their practice.
ADWA members are individuals who have chosen this sector as a long-term career. We are professionals who are committed to providing high-quality services, pursuing lifelong learning and implementing best practices. We desire to have our training, skills, experience and conduct recognized and respected. A professional code of ethics and conduct plays an essential role in achieving this goal.
Adopted by a majority resolution, this Code of Professional Ethics and Conduct are a statement of our shared values and our professional commitment to individuals with disabilities, their families and the broader community. Our Code of Professional Ethics and Conduct identifies the values held by the disability workforce. It serves as a guide for decision-making and ethical practice.