Network was founded on Christian principles, and our Christian ethos continues to inform the way we work as a counselling agency and training organisation. At the heart of this ethos are values of grace, love, compassion, dignity and respect for every person. We seek to express these values in the way we relate to everyone we work alongside, whatever their background, beliefs or circumstances.
As a professional counselling and training service, Network adheres to the principles and standards outlined in the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions, as well as the National Counselling Society (NCS) Code of Ethics.
Our Christian ethos shapes the culture and values of Network, while our work with clients and students is grounded in professional ethics, respect for individual beliefs and perspectives, and a commitment to providing a safe, welcoming and compassionate environment for all.
Our core values:
Human worth and value: we believe in the fundamental worth of all human beings, loved by God, irrespective of age, gender, race, ethnic origin, religion, sexual orientation, physical and mental capability or any other attribute. This calls for an attitude of profound unconditional acceptance and valuing of each individual without exception.
Inclusivity: we value diversity and inclusivity, and we seek to welcome, involve, and work alongside people from all walks of life. We believe in the importance of creating a community that is willing to embrace all others, and to recognise and value the skills and resources they have to offer.
Transformation: we believe that there is within people a God-given capacity for learning, growth, a change in direction and new beginnings. We seek to create a learning organisation in which everyone has the opportunity to realise their full potential, and is supported and encouraged to become all that they can be.
A respectful community: as an organisation, we are committed to enabling people to experience a sense of belonging, of being trusted and of having a voice in the process of decision-making. We are also committed to open, honest and respectful communication with each other at all levels of the organisation. We seek to deal with difficulties and disagreements between us with tolerance, sensitivity and compassion.
Accountability and responsibility: Network holds itself accountable to its clients, volunteers, donors, and the Charity Commission. Further, Network believes itself to be accountable to God in all its actions. We have a responsibility to use its resources wisely, to run the organisation efficiently, and to act ethically. We do our very best to meet our charitable objectives and enhance God’s kingdom.
Our counselling approach:
Network’s approach to counselling reflects our ethos: We work in a relational way and believe that everyone has the potential to change. Our approach is characterised by empathy, acceptance and authenticity. The majority of our counsellors base their practice on this Person-Centred approach, working together with clients to consider their concerns and clarify what they are hoping to gain from counselling. Our counsellors will facilitate the client in exploring these concerns, enabling them to gain greater understanding and awareness. The counsellor may offer fresh perspectives as they move towards the goals they have set. All our counsellors are comfortable working with the spiritual dimension of life if the client wishes to explore this area.
