Code of Ethics
Little Apple Doulas works to maintain the highest level of care and support possible, while striving to be sensitive, nurturing, empathic, nonjudgmental, knowledge based, flexible, reliable, well organized, practical and supportive of the family’s environment.
Terms
A. Professional Appearance
i. Independent Contractors are encouraged to wear their Little Apple Doulas attire when providing agency services, attending agency meetings, agency event, and agency outings.
ii. When in public, maintain a professional business casual appearance if wearing clothing related to Little Apple Doulas
iii. Independent contractors need approval before buying Little Apple Doulas clothing.
iv. Please provide a current headshot for website listing. If you drastically alter your appearance, please provide updated headshot within a month.
B. Business
i. Business of operations is not to be spoken about to those outside of the agency.
ii. Any questions, or concerns regarding the business of the agency will need to be addressed by the agency owner, KayLee Proctor.
iii. Maintain a clear and professional contract for all services offered
iv. Understanding the difference between an independent contractor and employee.
C. Build Trust and Credibility
i. The success of our business is dependent on the trust and confidence we earn from our independent contractors, clients, and professionals we work with. We gain credibility by adhering to our commitments, displaying honesty and integrity and reaching agency goals solely through honorable conduct.
ii. Social media is a reflection both personal and professional, as an IC of LAD you adhere to the notion that anything you post is a direct reflection of yourself and the agency. Please be mindful of this specifically about politics, religion, or personal convictions as a parent when interacting and posting on social media.
iii. Discrimination towards gender, gender expression, race, religion, socioeconomic status, marital status, or sexual orientation is not tolerated and is grounds for immediate dismissal.
D. Meetings/Mentorship/Education
i. Independent Contractors are encouraged to attend in-service meetings, events and team building activities. These meetings will maintain a safe place to debrief from experiences, ask questions, gain knowledge and build relationships with each other within the agency.
ii. Contractors need to remain in good standing with their certification organization, any relevant trainings, maintain a valid CPR and first aid certification, liability insurance, and, if providing placenta services, Blood Borne Pathogens and Food Handler’s Safety certification. Also attempt to attend local trainings when possible, and be willing to always further their education.
E. Assessment
i. Each independent contractor will receive a self evaluation and evaluation from the agency development team every six months. At this point the renewal of subcontractor's agreement will be openly discussed.
ii. Upon signing the Independent Contractor agreement there will be an initial six months probation period prior to the first evaluation. Thus, ensuring the Independent Contractor is a proper fit for the standards and morale of the agency. If the owner determines the agreement is not working, the independent contractor may be released during this probation period at any point.
Failure to follow and uphold the code of ethics of Little Apple Doulas may result in dismissal from the agency and termination of IC agreement. Little Apple Doulas reserves the right to terminate IC agreement at any time.