CNN code of conduct

Headnote

A voluntary code of professional conduct for community nursery nurses (CNNs) working in community and primary care settings

This code was revised by the Unite/CPHVA CNN Professional Forum in October 2007.

1 Applicability

1.1 To enable a person to work unsupervised with children, it is recommended by the Unite/CPHVA that this code be introduced in all NHS organisations.

1.2 CNNs are working unsupervised with children and families in their own homes, clinics, schools, family centres, and nurseries providing one-to-one sessions or client group activities, and therefore need a professional framework in which to work.

1.3 This code should be read in conjunction with other Unite/CPHVA guidelines.1,2,3

1.4 This code is for all CNNs who are working in primary care or community health settings.

1.5 This code covers those CNNs who work unsupervised with:

* Children aged up to eight years

* Young people aged eight to 19

* Adults, providing them with health promotion initiatives and advice.

2 Purpose

2.1 The purpose of the code is to:

* Ensure client safety and public protection

* Identify boundaries, competencies and responsibilities

* Agree communication and accountability frameworks

* Protect CNNs from inappropriate delegation of activities.

3. Educational standards

3.1 A CNN is not a qualified registered nurse.

3.2 Any nursery nurse who is working in the community or in primary care should have attained one of the following:

* NNEB, now replaced by the diploma in childcare and education (DCE) awarded by CACHE and the HNC in childcare and education (Scotland)

* Level 3 BTEC national diploma in early years, awarded by EDEXEL

* NVQ/Scottish NVQ level three in early years and education, awarded by City and Guilds, CACHE, EDEXEL and the Open University.

3.3 The Qualification and Curriculum Authority recommend these qualifications as providing CNNs with the necessary theoretical and practical training in child development.

3.4 CNNs are trained and competent in aspects of parenting and health promotion that equips them to work with parents and young people, to enable these clients to enhance their health and that of the family unit.

3.5 CNNs may train in leadership, mentorship and assessor skills to enable them to lead other CNNs.

4. Professional development

4.1 It is expected that CNNs will continually update their knowledge and...