Ethical Decision‑Making Model (Step‑by‑Step Toolkit)

This section provides a structured, reflective approach to resolving ethical dilemmas or uncertainties in practice. It is adapted from the BACP decision-making model and tailored to Pride Space CIC’s values, with a focus on inclusion, trauma-awareness, and anti-oppressive practice.

Step 1: Recognise the Ethical Issue

  • What feels uncomfortable, uncertain, or ethically unclear?
  • Who may be affected by the situation (clients, team, community)?

Prompt: Pause and name the dilemma without rushing to fix it.

Step 2: Gather Relevant Information

  • What policies, laws, ethical principles and rights are relevant?
  • What are the client’s preferences, needs, vulnerabilities?
  • Who else is involved or affected (e.g., carers, third parties)?

Tools: BACP Ethical Framework, safeguarding policy, risk assessment form.

Step 3: Reflect on Personal Responses

  • How are your values, identities or biases shaping your response?
  • What emotions or assumptions are present?

Supervision Prompt: “What’s coming up for me and why?”

Step 4: Explore Options and Impacts

  • List the possible courses of action.
  • Consider who benefits and who may be harmed in each option.
  • Include short-term, long-term, and unintended consequences.

Exercise: Create a simple table or mind map of risks and benefits.

Step 5: Consult with Others

  • Discuss the dilemma with a supervisor or trusted colleague.
  • When appropriate, involve the client in decision-making.
  • Consider referring to specialists (legal, safeguarding, DEI).

Key Principle: Shared reflection improves ethical quality and accountability.

Step 6: Make a Decision

  • Choose the best course of action in line with values, laws, and client needs.
  • Record the rationale and decision process clearly.

Remember: Ethical decisions often involve balancing competing goods—not perfect clarity.

Step 7: Take Action and Document

  • Implement the chosen decision sensitively and transparently.
  • Keep clear records of what was decided, why, and who was consulted.
  • Communicate openly with the client where appropriate.

Tip: Use neutral, respectful language in all documentation.

Step 8: Review and Learn

  • Reflect afterward: Did the outcome match intentions?
  • What went well? What would you do differently next time?
  • Use this reflection in CPD logs, team discussions, and supervision.

Reflective Practice Prompt: “What has this taught me about ethics, power, and practice?”

This toolkit should be used routinely—not just in moments of crisis. Practitioners and teams are encouraged to revisit and rehearse it during reflective practice sessions.