Code of Ethics for Lactation University Volunteer Support
The Code of Ethics for LU Volunteer Supporter (LUVS) serves as a guide for how trained volunteers are expected to interact with those they support in person and through social media platforms.
Qualifications
All volunteers are required to complete the Certified Lactation Educator Training (CLE) or the 100 Hour IBCLC Prep Course from LU within 3 years of accepting a role as a designated LUVS. Those who attend the CLE Training can operate as volunteers once they complete the 24-hour training, but are required to continue the steps to certify, and must complete certification within the 3 year window to maintain LUVS status.
LUVS agree to stay current with lactation issues and use evidence-based references in education and counseling. LUVS are required to show proof of 15 CEUs every 3 years, or a current IBCLC or CLE Certification.
LUVS must disclose any conflicts of interest in relevant organizations providing goods or services. We understand and appreciate the many volunteers and their contributions to the lactation world through their businesses and private practices, but while representing Lactation University, it is important that LUVS respect the following conditions:
LUVS in Practice
LUVS recognize and agree with the following statements:
Documentation
Intellectual Property
LUVS agree to represent Lactation University by honoring this Code and supporting families with empathy, compassion, referrals, education and emotional support.
LUVS agree to handle any grievances through the process that has been provided prior to their accepting of a volunteer role.
LUVS agree to voluntarily withdraw from the position at any time substance abuse, mental distress, or physical limitation affects the manner in which support can be provided.
If you agree to the LU Code of Ethics and would like to be considered for the position of a LUVS, please submit an application.
Qualifications
All volunteers are required to complete the Certified Lactation Educator Training (CLE) or the 100 Hour IBCLC Prep Course from LU within 3 years of accepting a role as a designated LUVS. Those who attend the CLE Training can operate as volunteers once they complete the 24-hour training, but are required to continue the steps to certify, and must complete certification within the 3 year window to maintain LUVS status.
LUVS agree to stay current with lactation issues and use evidence-based references in education and counseling. LUVS are required to show proof of 15 CEUs every 3 years, or a current IBCLC or CLE Certification.
LUVS must disclose any conflicts of interest in relevant organizations providing goods or services. We understand and appreciate the many volunteers and their contributions to the lactation world through their businesses and private practices, but while representing Lactation University, it is important that LUVS respect the following conditions:
- LUVS are required to offer support, referrals and education free from personal or commercial interests
- LUVS may not promote their personal enterprises or businesses
LUVS in Practice
- LUVS are expected to use good counseling and communication skills and seek solutions with their counselees
- LUVS must provide pertinent, non-judgmental information, allowing families the opportunity to make informed decisions
- LUVS are required to offer evidence-based information
- LUVS are committed to preserving the confidentiality of clients
- LUVS must consider culturally appropriate recommendations
- LUVS must uphold the WHO International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes
- LUVS must communicate is a fashion that demonstrates honesty, integrity and respect
- LUVS must support diversity, cultural competence, and honored traditions
- LUVS comply with all applicable laws
- LUVS honors the Scope of Practice by providing support, education and referrals
- LUVS do not diagnose or prescribe
LUVS recognize and agree with the following statements:
- We believe that humans are mammals and that breastfeeding is the biological and cultural norm.
- We are a non-discriminate body of volunteers that serve our community regardless of race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex, religion or sexual orientation. We serve all educational and income levels.
- We are not provided monetary compensation for our time.
Documentation
- LUVS will maintain records and submit documentation of number of individuals served monthly
- LUVS will document the number of hours support is provided monthly
- LUVS will document types of support given to the community (book club, meetings, phone support, emails, etc.)
Intellectual Property
- LUVS Facilitators understand that all training material, handouts and lessons are the intellectual property of Lactation University and cannot be used without the expressed, written permission from LU. LUV agree to not copy, reproduce or distribute any material originated from LU or any training provided by LU.
LUVS agree to represent Lactation University by honoring this Code and supporting families with empathy, compassion, referrals, education and emotional support.
LUVS agree to handle any grievances through the process that has been provided prior to their accepting of a volunteer role.
LUVS agree to voluntarily withdraw from the position at any time substance abuse, mental distress, or physical limitation affects the manner in which support can be provided.
If you agree to the LU Code of Ethics and would like to be considered for the position of a LUVS, please submit an application.