At Travel Roots, we are committed to providing ethical, meaningful, and sustainable travel and volunteering experiences. We believe that our volunteers serve as ambassadors for responsible travel, and we expect all participants to uphold the highest standards of behaviour at all times.

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This Code of Conduct outlines the principles, responsibilities, and expectations that apply to all volunteers engaging in a Travel Roots program. It exists to protect the safety, wellbeing, and dignity of volunteers, local communities, partners, wildlife, and the environment. By submitting an application and participating in a program, you agree to comply fully with this policy.

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Failure to comply with this Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action, including immediate dismissal from the program without refund, and may lead to reporting to relevant authorities or institutions.

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1. General Standards of Behaviour

Volunteers must behave in a respectful, honest, responsible, and cooperative manner at all times. Volunteers represent not only themselves, but also Travel Roots, our partners, their home country, and the volunteering community as a whole.

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Volunteers are required to comply with all local laws and regulations of the host country. Ignorance of the law will not be accepted as an excuse for unlawful behaviour.

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Volunteers must follow all reasonable instructions provided by Travel Roots, Independent Local Teams, community leaders, and project supervisors.

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2. Respect for Local Communities and Cultures

Volunteers must treat local community members, fellow volunteers, staff, and all others with respect, courtesy, and dignity. Discriminatory behaviour or harassment based on race, ethnicity, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, disability, or any other characteristic is strictly prohibited.

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Volunteers are expected to respect local customs, traditions, and cultural practices, including dress codes, social norms, religious beliefs, and etiquette. Volunteers should seek to learn about and positively engage with the local culture, showing openness and sensitivity.

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Volunteers must not act in any manner that could cause offence to the host community, including behaviour that may be considered disruptive, disrespectful, or culturally inappropriate.

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3. Environmental and Wildlife Responsibility

Travel Roots places a high priority on environmental sustainability and the protection of biodiversity. Volunteers must:

• Refrain from littering, vandalism, or damaging natural, cultural, or heritage sites.

• Respect all wildlife and natural habitats. Volunteers must not feed, touch, harass, disturb, or attempt to handle wild animals.

• Avoid purchasing, trading, or collecting wildlife products or souvenirs derived from endangered species, protected plants, or illegal sources.

• Follow the guidance of Travel Roots and the Independent Local Team regarding interactions with natural environments and conservation areas.

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Volunteers must act as stewards of the environment and are encouraged to minimise their ecological footprint during the program.

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4. Health, Safety, and Wellbeing

Volunteers are responsible for their own health and safety, and for acting in a manner that does not jeopardise the safety of others. This includes:

• Adhering to safety briefings, protocols, and guidance provided by Travel Roots and the Independent Local Team.

• Using protective equipment where provided and appropriate.

• Informing the relevant supervisor of any concerns regarding health, safety, or security.

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The use, possession, or distribution of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited. Alcohol consumption must comply with local laws, and must not impair the volunteer’s behaviour, judgement, or ability to participate safely and respectfully in the program.

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Volunteers must disclose any medical conditions or special needs that may affect their participation in the program, and must comply with required vaccinations or health precautions.

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5. Program Participation and Commitment

Volunteers are expected to demonstrate commitment, reliability, and professionalism in fulfilling their assigned duties. Volunteers must:

• Attend orientation sessions, scheduled activities, and work shifts punctually.

• Complete assigned tasks to the best of their ability and communicate openly with supervisors if challenges arise.

• Follow instructions given by the project supervisor or host organisation staff and not engage in unauthorised activities during program hours.

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Volunteers must not seek or accept personal payment, rewards, or gifts in exchange for their volunteer services. Any offers of inappropriate gifts, benefits, or compensation should be reported to Travel Roots or the Independent Local Team.

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6. Accommodation and Use of Facilities

Volunteers must respect their accommodation, host families, and local facilities. This includes:

• Keeping personal spaces clean and tidy.

• Using utilities, resources, and equipment responsibly.

• Following house rules, including curfews, guest policies, noise limits, and any other guidelines set by the host.

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Any damage caused to property through negligence or intentional misconduct may result in the volunteer being held financially responsible for repair or replacement costs.

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7. Photography, Media, and Confidentiality

Volunteers must seek permission before photographing or recording videos or audio of community members, especially children, sensitive locations, workplaces, or wildlife.

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All photographs, recordings, and media shared publicly or on social media must depict communities, people, wildlife, and environments in a respectful and truthful manner. Volunteers must not use such materials to exploit, misrepresent, or endanger individuals or communities.

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Volunteers must respect the confidentiality of information shared by Travel Roots, partner organisations, or community members, and must not disclose sensitive or private information without consent.

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8. Compliance with Local Laws and International Standards

Volunteers must comply with all laws of the host country, including those relating to immigration, customs, wildlife protection, environmental conservation, and public conduct.

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Any violation of the law, including involvement in illegal activities or failure to comply with visa requirements, will result in immediate dismissal from the program without refund, and may result in legal action by local authorities.

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9. Breaches and Consequences

Breaches of this Code of Conduct will be taken seriously. Disciplinary measures may include:

• Verbal or written warnings

• Removal from specific activities or responsibilities

• Immediate dismissal from the program without refund or compensation

• Notification to relevant authorities, institutions, sponsors, or emergency contacts

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Decisions regarding disciplinary action will be made at the sole discretion of Travel Roots and/or the Independent Local Team. There will be no right to appeal such decisions.

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10. Acknowledgement and Agreement

By applying to and participating in a Travel Roots program, the volunteer confirms that they have read, understood, and agree to abide by this Code of Conduct. Volunteers understand that any failure to comply may result in disciplinary action, including removal from the program and any associated costs being borne by the volunteer.