As a guide in deciding on a course of action, follow thesesteps and ask yourself these questions:
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RECOGNISE THE EVENT, DECISION OR ISSUE
Are you being asked to do something that you think might be wrong?
Are you aware of potentially illegal or unethical conduct on the part of others at VFH or a client?
Are you trying to make a decision and are you unsure about the ethical course of action?
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THINK BEFORE YOU ACT
Summarise and clarify your issue.
Ask yourself, why the dilemma?
Consider the options and consequences.
Consider who may be affected.
Consult others.
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DECIDE ON A COURSE OF ACTION
Determine your responsibility.
Review all relevant facts and information.
Refer to applicable VFH policies or professional standards.
Assess the risks and how you could reduce them.
Contemplate the best course of action.
Consult others.
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TEST YOUR DECISION
Review the “Ethics Questions to Consider”.
Apply VFH values to your decision.
Make sure you have considered VFH policies, laws and professional standards.
Consult others-enlist their opinion of your planned action.
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PROCEED WITH CONFIDENCE
Communicate decision and rationale to stakeholders.
Reflect upon what was learned.
Share your success stories with others.