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Communication Workers at DCDP operate within the Code of Professional Practice compiled by the Council for the Advancement of Communication with Deaf People (CACDP).

It suggests that Communication Work should be of a high quality and standard. Of particular importance are issues concerning:

- Confidence and Neutrality
- Equal Opportunities
- Training and Development

The purpose of working guidelines is to ensure that Communication Work is viewed as a profession in its own right. Adhering to the Code of Practice should promote standardisation of service wherever Communication Work is required.

It will also provide information as to what is expected of a CW both from an employer's and employee's point of view. By a process of definition, the parameters of Communication Work will underpin the professionalism of those involved in the educational environment.

The effect of this should be a general clarification of the CW's roles and responsibilities that in turn will improve the service students and lecturers can expect.

Confidentiality and Neutrality
Confidence should be respected at all times. Any information that is accessed by the CW, which relates to the student, is to be treated as confidential. This includes any files or records, which should be stored securely.

If a CW is working as part of a team, it is appropriate that information be shared which specifically relates to encouraging continuity of service.

It is necessary that a CW understand the legal implications of working in the educational setting; this includes knowledge of computer security and the Data Protection Act.

Communication within the educational setting is often a two (or more) way interaction. CWs should remain impartial and neutral, recognising the validity of everyone involved.

Following on from this, CWs must make every effort to remain objective, not favouring any particular gender, language or culture.

Equal Opportunities
Deaf students are individuals with specific needs. Every effort should be made to meet the needs of each student without favouring one form of communication over another.

The learning environment may include students from a variety of cultural and linguistic backgrounds. However, the dominant language is probably English both spoken and written. In light of this, the CW will endeavour to access as much information as is possible.

Due to the ever changing learning environment, CWs need to remain flexible, adapting the service they provide to what is necessary at any given moment.

CWs should have an understanding of the history of oppression of Deaf people and of Deaf Education. This includes an awareness of how this could affect the deaf student.

Training and Development
It is recommended that CWs complete a recognised training course relevant to the type of service provided.

Maintain skills learned as part of the above to ensure the highest level of service within the educational environment and, where necessary, update skills.

Recognise that some assignments are beyond the skills level of the individual CW and decline work appropriately.

Gain an understanding of teaching strategies and theories that are utilised in the educational setting.

CWs should be aware of any changes within the educational environment which could affect the learning process.