Our Ethics
Ethics isn’t a slogan or an add-on.
It’s the foundation of everything we do.
Trust is built by clear boundaries, consistent behaviour, and structures that limit power rather than protect it.
Built into how we work
At The Survivors, ethics are not a slogan or a department.
They are the core of how we work.
We do not believe that intention alone protects people.
We believe that clear boundaries, transparent processes, and accountable practice do.
This approach comes from hard experience. Too many institutions meant to protect children and survivors of abuse failed not because they lacked good intentions, but because systems that were supposed to protect vulnerable children were warped to protect the institutions instead.
This wasn’t just negligence. It was a structural failure rooted in self-protection, bureaucratic convenience, and a willingness to prioritise institutional reputation over the safety and dignity of children.
We refuse to repeat those patterns.
We believe that trust is not built by good intentions or strong words. Trust is built by clear boundaries, consistent behaviour, and structures that limit power rather than protect it. That is why ethics here are not an add-on. They are how the organisation operates.
Accountability not bureaucracy
We don’t believe ethics is about filling forms, ticking boxes, or following procedures that exist to limit liability rather than prevent harm. Those systems often serve the organisation, not the people it’s meant to help.
Our ethical framework is different. It’s designed to be responsive to people, not process. It centres the autonomy and safety of survivors while holding ourselves to clear, enforceable standards.
This means we prioritise care over compliance. We focus on what actually protects people, not what looks good on paper. And we commit to transparency – not as a performance, but as a responsibility.
You can read our full ethical framework to see exactly how we work, what you can expect from us, and where limits are placed on our own power.
What ethical practice looks like
You set the pace
No one is pressured to disclose, to participate, or to represent others.
Consent is ongoing
Consent is a continuing conversation, not a single signature.
Confidentiality matters
Confidentiality is protected unless there is a clear and agreed reason to share.
Honesty about our limits
We are honest about what we can and cannot do. We admit mistakes and correct them.
Independent in our work
We work independently of political pressure, institutional influence, and funding with strings attached.
Accountable for our power
Authority is not protected from challenge. Questions and concerns are welcome.
Honesty, dignity and respect
For survivors, volunteers, professionals and our audience.
If something isn’t right
We don’t ask to be trusted without scrutiny.
If you have concerns about how we’re working, how decisions are being made, or how someone has been treated, we want to know.
You can raise a concern, ask a question, or make a complaint at any time.
You will not be penalised for doing so.