Code of Conduct

The Code of conduct has been developed by us following the adoption by the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (Cosla) of the National Code of Conduct for Local Government Employees.

The public expects a high standard of conduct from all local government employees.  The Code sets out the minimum standards expected of all employees of South Lanarkshire Council.  These standards will be used as a benchmark of good practice by the Local Government Ombudsman where a complaint of maladministration has been made.  The Code also incorporates "The Seven Principles of Public Life" identified by the Nolan Committee on Standards in Public Life.  These are listed overleaf, as slightly altered by COSLA to place them in local government context, and are explained in our approach to good governance.

The Code does not affect employees’ rights and responsibilities under the law.  Its purpose is to provide clear and helpful advice. While a breach of this Code may result in disciplinary action, it is designed to provide guidance on the standards of conduct appropriate for a public service employee. Any employee who has difficulty in meeting any of the standards contained in the Code, should contact you, Personnel Services or a trade union official for advice.

As we provide a wide range of services, some sections of the Code may be more relevant to some employees than others, but all employees must comply with the standards and principles set out in the Code.  Some employees may also be subject to the provisions of a code of conduct produced to meet the requirements of a professional body such as the General Teaching Council (GTC) or Scottish Social Services Commission (SSSC).