Code of Ethics and Professional Standards

I’m committed to offering coaching in a way that is respectful, honest, and safe. This page explains what you can expect from me as your coach, and what I expect from the coaching relationship.

1) Honesty and transparency

• I will be clear about what I offer, what I don’t offer, and how coaching works.

• I won’t exaggerate results or make promises I can’t guarantee.

• I will be honest about my experience and any relevant training and credentials.

2) What coaching is (and isn’t)

Coaching is a supportive, structured conversation that helps you clarify what you want, understand what’s getting in the way, and take realistic steps forward.

Coaching is not therapy, counselling, medical care, or crisis support. If you need specialist mental health support, I will encourage you to seek the right help and can signpost you where appropriate.

3) Your choice and consent

• Coaching is always collaborative. You choose what we discuss.

• You can pause, change direction, or say “not today” at any time.

• You can end coaching at any time in line with the agreement you’ve signed.

If we move into sensitive areas, I’ll check in with you and make sure you feel comfortable and in control.

4) Professional boundaries and conflicts of interest

• My relationship with you is professional and centred on your wellbeing and goals.

• I won’t take advantage of our coaching relationship financially, emotionally, or socially.

• If a conflict of interest comes up, I will be open about it and will step back if needed.

5) Privacy and confidentiality (UK)

Your privacy is taken seriously.

• I store personal information securely and handle your data in line with UK data protection requirements (UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018).

• I do not share your information with others without your permission.

Limits of confidentiality:
There are rare situations where I may need to share information, such as where required by law or where there is a serious risk of harm to you or someone else. If possible, I would always aim to discuss this with you first.

6) Agreements, fees and communication

Before we begin, you’ll receive a clear agreement that covers:

• what coaching includes

• fees and payment terms

• cancellations and rescheduling

• confidentiality and its limits

• how we communicate between sessions (if applicable)

I will stick to what’s agreed. You’ll never be pressured into extra sessions.

7) Respect, inclusion and cultural sensitivity

I work with respect for your identity, values, background, learning pace, and life experience. Coaching should be a space where you feel safe to be yourself.

8) Appropriate contact and physical boundaries

Any contact (for example, a handshake) will always be appropriate and respectful, and I’ll take cultural sensitivity into account. Any sexual or inappropriate behaviour is never acceptable and is completely outside professional standards.

9) Quality, supervision and ongoing development

I take responsibility for maintaining and improving my skills through ongoing learning. I also stay honest about what I do and don’t know.

If something comes up that is outside my scope, I will say so and support you to find the right next step.

10) Being fully present with you

In sessions, you can expect me to:

• listen carefully and without judgement

• ask clear questions that support insight and action

• stay focused on your agenda

• offer structure without forcing you

• work respectfully with emotions without taking over your process

A quick note on Reiki (if included in your work)

If Reiki is offered within a session, it is always optional, consent-based, and used as a supportive wellbeing practice. It does not replace medical or psychological care.