Mentor Scheme Rules, Regulations, Obligations and Code of Conduct (UK)
This document provides a framework for the operation of the Sommelier Edit Future Sommelier mentoring scheme within the United Kingdom.
1. Purpose of the Mentor Scheme
• To provide guidance, support, and development opportunities for mentees within the hospitality industry and specifically front of house staff, aged at least 18 years old, who wish to further their career as a sommelier.
• To promote equality, inclusion, safeguarding, and professional conduct.
• To establish clear standards and expectations for all participants.
2. Eligibility and Participation
• All mentors and mentees must complete a registration process before participating.
• Mentors must possess relevant experience, qualifications, or professional knowledge.
• Participants must provide accurate information during registration.
• The organisation reserves the right to refuse or terminate participation where appropriate.
3. Safeguarding and Welfare
• The welfare and safety of mentees shall be the highest priority.
• Where mentoring involves vulnerable adults, mentors must complete enhanced DBS checks.
• Any safeguarding concerns must be reported immediately to the designated safeguarding lead.
• Mentors must not engage in conduct that could place mentees at risk of harm.
4. Confidentiality
• Information shared during mentoring sessions shall remain confidential unless disclosure is required by law or safeguarding obligations.
• Participants must comply with UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018 requirements.
• Personal data must not be shared without consent.
5. Professional Boundaries
• Mentor and mentee relationships must remain professional at all times.
• Mentors must not exploit mentees financially, emotionally, or professionally.
• Romantic or inappropriate personal relationships between mentors and mentees are prohibited during the active mentoring relationship.
• Meetings should take place in suitable professional or public environments where appropriate.
6. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
• The scheme shall operate in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.
• Discrimination, harassment, bullying, or victimisation will not be tolerated.
• Participants must treat each other with dignity, fairness, and respect.
7. Responsibilities of Mentors
• Provide guidance, encouragement, and constructive feedback.
• Maintain agreed meeting schedules and communicate professionally.
• Respect confidentiality and safeguarding obligations.
• Avoid conflicts of interest and declare any potential conflicts immediately.
• Act as a positive role model.
8. Responsibilities of Mentees
• Attend meetings punctually and engage actively in the mentoring process.
• Communicate honestly and respectfully.
• Take responsibility for personal development goals and actions.
• Respect the mentor’s time, boundaries, and expertise.
9. Communication Standards
• All communication must remain respectful, lawful, and appropriate.
• Harassment, abusive language, discrimination, or intimidation are prohibited.
• Electronic communications should be conducted through approved channels (www.sommelieredit.com) where possible.
10. Health and Safety
• All participants must comply with relevant health and safety requirements.
• Risk assessments should be carried out for organised events or activities.
• Unsafe behaviour may result in suspension from the scheme.
11. Social Media and Online Conduct
• Participants must not post confidential or defamatory material online.
• Online interactions must remain professional and respectful.
• The organisation may monitor official communication platforms where lawful and appropriate.
12. Complaints and Disciplinary Procedures
• Complaints should be submitted in writing to the scheme administrator.
• All complaints shall be investigated fairly and confidentially.
• Breaches of these rules may result in warnings, suspension, or removal from the scheme.
13. Termination of Participation
• Either party may withdraw from the mentoring relationship with reasonable notice.
• The organisation may terminate participation for misconduct, safeguarding concerns, or breaches of policy.
14. Code of Conduct
• Act honestly, ethically, and professionally.
• Respect confidentiality, diversity, and personal boundaries.
• Promote a supportive and inclusive environment.
• Avoid conduct that may damage the reputation of the scheme or organisation.
• Comply with all applicable UK laws and organisational policies.
15. Review and Governance
• These rules and policies are reviewed annually (last updated May 2026).
• The organisation may amend the policy to reflect legal or operational changes.
• Participants shall be notified of any material updates.
Acknowledgement: All participants are expected to read, understand, and comply with this document as a condition of participation in the mentor scheme.
