Code of Conduct

Code of Conduct

Right Conduct in Thought, Word, & Action

By participating in, or being associated with, the Foundation's activities in any capacity, all individuals agree to adhere to this Safeguarding Policy and associated codes of conduct.

[ 1 ] Introduction

The Sacred Grove Foundation is committed to creating and maintaining a safe, respectful, inclusive, and ethical environment for all participants, volunteers, staff, trustees, and communities we engage with.

Inspired by the teachings of Sri M, we consider our primary identity to be that of a "human being" (Maanav), transcending religious, racial, and cultural differences to foster a truly united world.

This Code of Conduct reflects our values, the ethical and safeguarding standards we uphold in all activities, both in person and online. It is grounded in universal principles of Sanatana Dharma.

All individuals participating in or associated with the Foundation's work are expected to follow this Code of Conduct at all times.

[ 2 ] Core Values Of Our Conduct

Our conduct is guided by values of Yoga philosophy, Sanatana Dharma that are universal, timeless, and supportive of human dignity, well-being, and safe community life:

• Ahimsa (Non-violence & Compassion): We act with kindness and care, proactively avoiding physical, emotional, psychological, or spiritual harm in thought, word, and deed. Following the teachings of Sri M, we recognise that compassion is an active duty, an essential practice extended to all living beings without discrimination. We embed this principle into our core governance by maintaining a steadfast commitment to Safeguarding, ensuring a culture of protection, dignity, and respect for every individual.

• Dharma (Right Conduct & Accountability): We live with integrity and accountability, respecting ethical boundaries and our legal duties to the public and our beneficiaries.

• Satya (Authenticity & Transparency): We act honestly and transparently in all communications, fundraising, and decision-making, ensuring our external actions reflect our internal values.

• Shaucha (Cleanliness & Purity): We uphold purity in thought, word, and deed by maintaining transparency of intention and an orderly environment. This includes a commitment to personal and social hygiene, caring for our physical and mental well-being, to ensure our conduct remains professional, dignified, and free from the clutter of personal ego or conflicting interests.

• Indriya-Nigraha (Sense Control): Practising self-regulation and professional boundaries to ensure our actions are governed by conscious discipline and ethical duty rather than fleeting impulses or reactive emotions.

• Dhriti & Akrodha (Patience & Composure): We maintain calmness and non-aggression. We respond to challenges with fortitude and steadiness, avoiding impulsive or hostile reactions.

• Asteya & Aparigraha (Integrity & Simple Living): We respect the boundaries, time, and property of others, ensuring no harm or loss is caused through our actions. We commit to a culture of simple living and ethical stewardship, avoiding the misuse of power or resources for personal gain and ensuring the Foundation's assets are used mindfully and solely for the public benefit.

• Dhi & Vidya (Wisdom & Learning): We apply discernment and sound judgment, valuing continuous personal growth and a "learning culture" within the Foundation.

• Kshama (Forgiveness & Reconciliation): Where appropriate, we cultivate understanding and seek fair resolution to conflicts, fostering a supportive community.

• Sarvatra Samabhutaya (Equanimity): We cultivate an even-minded and impartial vision, recognising the inherent dignity and shared humanity in everyone we encounter. Following Sri M's teaching to meet others as "humans first," we remain steady and composed in the face of success or failure, ensuring our decisions are guided by objective truth and the welfare of all, rather than personal bias, preference, or emotional reactivity.

These values support an atmosphere of safety, trust, respect, and ethical integrity. They reinforce our commitment to safeguarding, ensuring that spiritual learning and well-being activities take place in environments where dignity, consent, and personal boundaries are always honoured.

[ 3 ] Living Our Values: Expected Behaviours

The behavioural expectations mentioned here apply equally to trustees, staff, volunteers, teachers, facilitators, and participants.

Failure to uphold these behaviours may result in appropriate action under the Foundation's Safeguarding and Conduct policies.

Ahimsa (Non-Violence & Compassion)

We demonstrate this value by:

• Speaking and acting in ways that do not cause harm, humiliation, or fear.

• Maintaining strict safeguarding standards and reporting concerns promptly.

• Avoiding gossip, shaming, exclusion, or emotional manipulation.

• Offering support when someone appears distressed or vulnerable.

• Ensuring consent, dignity, and personal boundaries are always respected.

• Intervening or escalating concerns if we witness harmful behaviour.

Dharma (Right Conduct & Accountability)

We demonstrate this value by:

• Complying with all safeguarding, legal, and regulatory obligations.

• Acting within clearly defined roles and responsibilities.

• Avoiding conflicts of interest and declaring them transparently.

• Being accountable for decisions and willing to explain them when required.

• Upholding both the spirit and the letter of Foundation policies.

• Treat all others with courtesy, dignity, and fairness.

• Listen actively and speak with kindness, without intimidation, prejudice, or discrimination.

• Honour personal, physical, spiritual, and cultural boundaries.

• Accept feedback and take responsibility for one's actions.

• Cooperate with safeguarding processes, training, and governance requirements.

• Abide by the Foundation's Safeguarding Policy, including recording, privacy, and online conduct requirements.

• Never use any perceived spiritual authority, experience, or role to influence others' choices or boundaries.

Satya (Authenticity & Transparency)

We demonstrate this value by:

• Communicating honestly and clearly.

• Avoiding exaggeration, misrepresentation, or misleading claims.

• Being transparent in fundraising, finances, and programme delivery.

• Acknowledging mistakes and correcting them promptly.

• Ensuring external messaging aligns with internal values and practice.

• Uphold high ethical standards in actions and decisions, even when not observed.

Shaucha (Cleanliness & Purity)

We demonstrate this value by:

• Maintaining professional standards in behaviour and communication.

• Creating orderly, safe, and hygienic environments for events.

• Keeping our intentions clear and free from personal agendas.

• Avoiding conduct influenced by ego, favouritism, or hidden motives.

• Respecting both physical and psychological space in all interactions.

Indriya-Nigraha (Self-Regulation & Professional Boundaries)

We demonstrate this value by:

• Respecting silence and meditative moods by maintaining awareness and sensitivity to others' inner space, avoiding unnecessary disturbance during moments of reflection or practice.

• Maintaining clear professional and ethical boundaries at all times.

• Avoiding impulsive or emotionally reactive behaviour.

• Refraining from inappropriate private communication or secrecy.

• Ensuring no spiritual authority or influence is misused.

• Recognising power dynamics and acting responsibly within them.

Dhriti & Akrodha (Patience & Composure)

We demonstrate this value by:

• Remaining calm during disagreement or stress.

• Avoiding hostile, aggressive, or defensive reactions.

• Responding thoughtfully rather than reacting emotionally.

• Managing conflict respectfully and proportionately.

• Encouraging dialogue rather than division.

Asteya & Aparigraha (Integrity & Simple Living)

We demonstrate this value by:

• Respecting others' time, boundaries, and property.

• Not misusing funds, resources, or authority for personal benefit.

• Avoiding financial, emotional, or spiritual exploitation.

• Ensuring Foundation assets are used solely for charitable purposes.

• Practising moderation and ethical stewardship in decision-making.

Dhi & Vidya (Wisdom & Continuous Learning)

We demonstrate this value by:

• Exercising sound judgment in safeguarding and governance matters.

• Seeking guidance when uncertain.

• Participating in training and development opportunities.

• Learning from feedback, mistakes, and safeguarding reviews.

• Fostering a culture of reflection and improvement.

Kshama (Forgiveness & Reconciliation)

We demonstrate this value by:

• Addressing conflicts fairly and proportionately.

• Encouraging respectful resolution where appropriate.

• Avoiding retaliatory behaviour.

• Supporting restorative approaches when safe and suitable.

• Distinguishing between reconciliation and overlooking safeguarding risks.

Sarvatra Samabhutaya (Equanimity & Impartiality)

We demonstrate this value by:

• Treating all individuals with fairness and without discrimination.

• Making decisions based on objective facts rather than personal preference.

• Remaining steady in success, challenge, praise, or criticism.

• Avoiding bias based on role, seniority, relationship, or familiarity.

• Ensuring safeguarding decisions prioritise wellbeing over reputation.

Privacy and Confidentiality

• Respect confidentiality and handle personal information responsibly and legally.

• Do not share or record any private communication, photographs, audio, or video without explicit consent.

• Participants/Volunteers/anyone are not authorised to take photos, record audio or video, or use AI tools in connection with Foundation activities without written permission.

Digital and Online Conduct

• Conduct yourself with the same respect and professionalism in online forums, classes, and communications as in person.

• Avoid inappropriate language, private solicitation, digital harassment, or misuse of platforms.

Please note:

Neither Sri M nor the Foundation endorses, authorises, or supports any behaviour that violates safeguarding principles, ethical conduct, or personal boundaries. Such behaviour is never encouraged, justified, or tolerated in any form.

No one’s length of association with Sri M, the Foundation or any personal or spiritual experiences confers spiritual authority, seniority, or status. These must never be used to influence, manipulate, exploit, or override safeguarding principles, personal boundaries, consent, or individual autonomy.

[ 4 ] Unacceptable Conduct

The following behaviours are considered unacceptable in the context of The Sacred Grove Foundation's activities, programmes, events, and engagements, whether in person, online, in written communication, or through any digital platform. These behaviours are inconsistent with our values, expected conduct, and safeguarding standards, and may result in disciplinary action, exclusion from activities, and referral to statutory authorities where required.

1. Harmful and Abusive Conduct

The Foundation has zero tolerance for behaviour that causes or may cause harm, including but not limited to:

• Physical violence, assault, or threats of harm

• Emotional, psychological, or spiritual abuse

• Intimidation, harassment, or bullying

• Any form of coercion, manipulation, exploitation, or control

• Abusive language, verbal attacks, or demeaning remarks

• Discrimination, prejudice, or hateful conduct toward others

• No financial solicitation, sales, or personal benefit activities

• Never use spiritual authority, seniority, experience, or proximity to Sri M nor the Foundation to influence, control, or exploit others

• No solicitation to join private groups, satsangs, or teachings not authorised by the Foundation

2. Violations of Safeguarding Boundaries

Behaviour that undermines safety, dignity, or personal boundaries includes:

• Pressuring others to disclose personal or sensitive information

• Using spiritual authority, seniority, or influence to override consent

• Ignoring expressed disagreement, discomfort, or refusal

• Unwanted physical contact or intrusion into personal space

• Pursuing unwelcome relationships with participants (or encouraging others to do so)

3. Sexual Misconduct

Any behaviour that is sexually inappropriate, exploitative, or unlawful, including:

• Sexual harassment, advances, or propositions

• Inappropriate touching or sexualised communication

• Use of position, trust, or access to exploit others

• Sending or displaying sexually explicit material without consent

4. Abuse, Grooming, or Exploitation

Any behaviour intended to build trust for the purpose of exploitation, harm, or control, including:

• Gradual boundary testing or over-personalisation

• Secretive communication or private invitations without transparency

• Emotional grooming, spiritual grooming, or manipulation

• Attempts to isolate individuals from their support networks

5. Violations of Privacy and Confidentiality

Protecting personal information and space is fundamental:

• Recording audio, video, photos, or using any AI tools without explicit written consent

• Sharing personal details without explicit permission

• Publishing private communications or images

• Misusing private data for personal, professional, or promotional purposes

6. Inappropriate Use of Digital Platforms

Unacceptable online conduct includes:

• Inappropriate or offensive messages, comments, or posts

• Cyberbullying, trolling, or digital harassment

• Unauthorised creation of digital groups or channels in the Foundation's or Sri M's name

• Unsolicited sharing of content that violates safety or privacy standards

7. Violations of Professional and Ethical Responsibilities

This includes conduct that undermines our ethical and governance standards:

• Misuse of resources, funds, or authority for personal benefit

• Failure to report safeguarding concerns in a timely and responsible way

• Intentionally misleading trustees, staff, or volunteers

• Engaging in conduct that harms the reputation of the Foundation

8. Disrespect for Silence, Contemplation, and Wellbeing Space

Failing to maintain appropriate awareness of others' reflective or meditative space:

• Interrupting or distracting someone engaged in meditation or silence

• Disruptive noise or behaviour during contemplative practices

• Dismissing or disrespecting others' need for inner space

9. Retaliation or Discouragement of Reporting

Any action that seeks to intimidate, silence, or penalise someone for reporting concerns:

• Threats, coercion, minimisation, or blaming the reporter

• Retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith

• Discouraging others from reporting or cooperating with safeguarding processes

10. Profanity, Obscene or Inappropriate Content

Use of profanity, sexually explicit, obscene, or otherwise inappropriate language, material, or behaviour is not permitted during any Foundation activity, whether online or in person. The Foundation is committed to maintaining a respectful, safe, and inclusive environment for all participants, volunteers, and representatives.

This includes, but is not limited to:

• Use of profane, vulgar, sexually explicit, or abusive language

• Sharing, displaying, or sending obscene, offensive, or sexually suggestive content (including images, videos, audio, messages, links, memes, or digital media)

• Crude jokes, sexual innuendo, or comments that may cause discomfort or embarrassment

• Participation while intentionally wearing clothing that is inappropriate for a respectful learning or community setting, or behaviour involving partial or full nudity

• Appearing on camera or in shared spaces in a manner that may reasonably be considered sexually explicit, disruptive, or inconsistent with safeguarding standards.

All individuals are expected to present themselves and communicate in ways that respect the dignity, comfort, and cultural diversity of others and support the contemplative and educational nature of Foundation activities.

Zero Tolerance for Harm

This list is not exhaustive. Behaviour that fails to uphold the principles of:

• safety

• respect

• dignity

• consent

• ethical integrity

• privacy

• personal boundaries

• and protection of the vulnerable (Children & Adults)

is considered unacceptable, even if not explicitly listed above, will be considered as a breach of the Foundation's Code of Conduct and Safeguarding policies.

Please note:

Neither Sri M nor the Foundation endorses, authorises, or supports any behaviour that violates safeguarding principles, ethical conduct, or personal boundaries. Such behaviour is never encouraged, justified, or tolerated in any form.

No one’s length of association with Sri M, the Foundation or any personal or spiritual experiences confers spiritual authority, seniority, or status. These must never be used to influence, manipulate, exploit, or override safeguarding principles, personal boundaries, consent, or individual autonomy.

[ 5 ] Consequences of Unacceptable Conduct

Individuals found to have engaged in unacceptable conduct may be subject to:

• Immediate removal or exclusion from Foundation activities

• Suspension from participation or leadership roles

• Refusal of future involvement or permanent ban

• Referral to statutory authorities (police, social services, regulatory bodies)

• Other remedial or corrective actions as deemed appropriate

• In cases of substantiated serious misconduct, and where necessary to safeguard participants and prevent further harm, the Foundation may prohibit the individual from attending programmes organised by other centres associated with Sri M. Relevant information may be shared on a strictly need-to-know basis, following a documented risk assessment and only where there is a lawful basis under UK data protection legislation (UK GDPR). Where appropriate, legal advice or guidance from statutory safeguarding authorities will be sought before any information is shared.

[ 6 ] Reporting and Response

If you witness or experience any form of unacceptable conduct, you are encouraged to report it immediately in accordance with the Foundation's Safeguarding Policy.

No one should fear retaliation or dismissal for reporting in good faith.

Please email your concerns/complaints to

👉 complaints@sacredgrove-foundation.org.uk

Also, you can reach out to trustees via the contact details mentioned below,

Trustee - Secretary: Jay

Email: secretary@sacredgrove-foundation.org.uk

Mobile: +44 (0) 7775 617205 (No Whatsapp, only normal mobile calls)

+44 (0) 7874 831557 (Whatsapp only, No mobile calls)

Trustee - Joint Secretary: Brahma

Email: office@sacredgrove-foundation.org.uk

Mobile: +44 (0) 7838 231137

Trustee - Treasurer: Karthik

Email: treasurer@sacredgrove-foundation.org.uk

Mobile: +44 (0) 7404 945499