What are the potential penalties for violating the CPSW Code of Ethics?

The potential penalties for violating the Certified Peer Support Worker (CPSW) Code of Ethics primarily include loss of certification and possibly employment. The CPSW Code of Ethics serves as a guiding framework for professional conduct, emphasizing the importance of integrity, respect, and accountability within the peer support community.

When a peer support worker breaches this code, it undermines the trust and safety that are essential in support relationships. As a consequence, regulatory bodies or employers may determine that such violations warrant revoking certification, which directly impacts an individual’s ability to practice professionally. In many cases, the breach may also lead to job termination, especially if the violation discredits the organization or compromises client confidentiality and welfare.

While other options such as fines, community service, mandatory training, or probation might apply in various contexts or professions, the specific repercussions for CPSWs are focused on maintaining the integrity of the certification and the professionalism of the field. Thus, loss of certification and employment stands out as the most relevant and direct consequence for those who fail to adhere to the ethical standards established for their role.