LCYC Code of Conduct: RESPECT FOR ALL

The staff and volunteers at LCYC strive to make our space and programs inclusive, safe and fun for everyone. Our core values are INTEGRITY, RESPECT, COMPASSION and ACCOUNTABILITY. The following standards are in place to support youth while accessing programs at LCYC.

Signing In/Signing Out

All youth must sign in when they arrive and sign out when they leave. Once youth have used their allotted sign ins, they will not be allowed back in that night.

Accessing Items from LCYC

There is a 30-minute sign out time for electronics (gaming consoles and computers). If items are not returned in original condition, youth may lose sign out privileges.

Behavior Standards:

Ø Language

All language should be respectful, inclusive and appropriate for everyone at LCYC. Use of profanity or derogatory language is not appropriate. Staff may ask a youth to leave for the evening depending the situation.

Ø Tobacco & Vapes

There is zero tolerance for the use of tobacco and vapes on LCYC property, including the parking lot, the grass around the building and the LCYC van. Youth are required to leave LCYC property if they choose to use tobacco and nicotine products.

Ø Drugs/Alcohol

Use of any alcohol or drugs is not allowed on LCYC property. If youth are in possession of drugs or alcohol OR are suspected to be under the influence, staff will ask the youth to leave the property immediately.

Ø Fighting/Bullying and Aggressive Behavior

Violent, aggressive, intimidating, or threatening behavior with the intent to harm is strictly prohibited at LCYC. Youth who engage in these behaviors will be asked to leave for the evening and may receive an additional suspension. Bystanders may also be asked to leave for the evening. RCMP may also be contacted at the discretion of staff.

Ø Consent, Boundaries and Public Display of Affection

LCYC promotes a culture of consent. Youth must respect other's boundaries and personal space. Public displays of affection are discouraged on LCYC property. Staff will address behaviors that make others uncomfortable.

Ø Weapons

Weapons are not permitted on LCYC property. There is zero tolerance for use of or threat to use a weapon. If necessary, the RCMP will be contacted.

Ø Dress Code:

Youth are encouraged to dress in a way that demonstrates self-respect and respect for others. Offensive clothing or visible undergarments are not appropriate at LCYC. Staff will provide youth with alternative clothing or ask the youth to leave the Centre and change if the clothing is considered inappropriate for LCYC.

Ø LCYC Van:

Youth are REQUIRED to always wear seat belts while in the van. The LCYC Code of Conduct and consequences apply in the van. Food and drinks are not allowed to be consumed in the van.

Consequences

When the LCYC Code of Conduct is not followed and behaviors compromise the physical and/or emotional safety of others, youth will be given three chances to change their problematic behavior. After three chances are used, staff will deliver reasonable and appropriate consequences that are proportionate to the youth’s behavior. Staff retain the right to ask youth to leave without 3 chances when behavior may cause harm or affect the safety or well-being of anyone.

Staff will determine an appropriate length of time for the youth to take a break from LCYC. A parent/guardian will be contacted for suspensions that are a week or more. Following a suspension of a week or more, youth will be required to meet with staff to discuss the conditions of their return. Staff may request a parent/guardian attend the meeting. A letter will be provided for suspensions that are a month or longer. A gradual return to services plan may be implemented following a suspension.