Our Values
At STN Women’s Lives Matter (RWLM), our work is guided by the following core values:
- Dignity – Every woman is valued and welcomed without judgement.
- Listening – We shape our services based on the voices and needs of women.
- Commitment – We stand beside women through their challenges, for as long as needed.
- Empowerment – We support women to take positive steps toward independence.
- Safety and Advocacy – We do all we can to meet women’s basic needs and keep them safe.
RWLM is a women-only space, inclusive of all who identify and live as women.
Why This Code Matters
This Code of Conduct explains what we expect from clients accessing our services, whether through our Drop-In centre, Helpline, self-referral, or a professional referral.
All clients are asked to complete a New Client Pack, which includes:
- A Support Engagement Contract
- An Information Sharing Agreement
These documents set out the expectations for using our services respectfully and safely.
You can also find this Code of Conduct on our website or request a printed copy when visiting our centre.
Creating a Safe and Respectful Space
RWLM is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment, free from discrimination, harassment, and abuse.
We do not tolerate any unfair treatment based on:
- Race or ethnicity
- Religion or beliefs
- Disability
- Gender identity or sexual orientation
- Age, nationality, or personal circumstances
We aim to make our services accessible to every woman. If you face language, communication, or learning barriers, we can provide:
- Interpreting support (phone or face-to-face)
- Easy Read and translated materials
- Visual aids such as coloured overlays
What We Ask of Our Clients
When you engage with RWLM, we ask that you:
- Sign in and out at the centre
- Treat others – staff, volunteers, and fellow clients – with respect
- Follow our safety and fire evacuation procedures
Unacceptable behaviours include:
- Abuse, threats, or intimidation
- Coercion or manipulation of staff or peers
- Exploiting others emotionally, financially, or sexually
- Using substances onsite
- Damaging property or the reputation of RWLM
- Endangering others’ safety
These behaviours may result in you being asked to leave or suspended from using our services.
Confidentiality and Information Sharing
Your information is handled with care. We will always ask your permission before sharing your details, except in certain legal or safeguarding situations.
We may need to share information if:
- You or someone else is at risk of harm
- There’s a safeguarding concern involving a child or vulnerable adult
- A crime has been disclosed
- A legal order requires us to do so
- You are referred through a statutory service (e.g. police or probation)
Your personal data is stored securely and kept for six years after your support ends, in line with data protection regulations.
Raising Concerns or Making a Complaint
If you have a concern, please speak to your caseworker first.
If the issue continues, you can raise it with a Service Manager.
Unresolved complaints can be made in writing to our Directors/Trustees or CEO.
Annual Review
We review this Code of Conduct every year to ensure it remains relevant, fair, and supportive for all women who use our services.
If you have questions or need support understanding this Code, please speak to a member of our team. We’re here to help.