Safety and Expected Behaviour

the DHSDC code of conduct

Purpose

We aim to foster an inclusive, respectful, and safe environment for all members of our swing dance community. We are committed to celebrating diversity and ensuring everyone feels welcome. By participating in our swing dance community, you agree to adhere to this Code of Conduct and contribute to a positive, welcoming atmosphere for all.

Core Principles and Expectations 

1. Respect and Inclusivity:

  •    Treat all participants with respect, regardless of their age, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, ability, or experience level.

  •    Celebrate diversity and encourage participation from individuals of all backgrounds.

2. Safe Spaces:

  • Foster an environment where everyone feels safe to express themselves and explore their dance journey without fear of discrimination, harassment, or intimidation.

  • Respect personal boundaries and seek consent before initiating physical contact.

  • Take care of yourself, your partner, and those around you on the dance floor. Don’t dance in a way that could endanger others (eg no aerials). If collisions occur, stop and check if someone may have been injured.

  • Be aware that we will take photos and videos at our events, and potentially use them on our website or social media. If you do not wish to be recorded for these purposes, please speak to an organiser.

3. Positive Communication:

  • Communicate openly and kindly. Ask if others are open to feedback before offering it. Use constructive feedback and be receptive to others’ perspectives. 

  • Avoid using derogatory language or making jokes that could be harmful or offensive to others.

4. Supportive Community:

  • Encourage and be supportive of fellow dancers. Be a good human, and approach others with kindness at all times. 

  • Be mindful of the physical and emotional space of others; if someone seems uncomfortable, check in with them. If you still have concerns, speak to an organiser. 

5. Responsibility and Accountability:

  • Take responsibility for your actions and their impact on others. If you witness inappropriate behaviour, speak up or report it to an organiser.

  • Acknowledge when mistakes are made and be willing to learn from them.

6. Conflict Resolution:

  •  Approach conflicts calmly and respectfully. If you cannot resolve an issue directly, seek assistance from a facilitator or organiser.

  •  We are committed to addressing any reported violations of this Code of Conduct promptly and fairly.

Reporting and Responding to Violations

If you experience or witness any behaviour that violates this Code of Conduct, please report it to an organiser. We will treat all reports confidentially and with sensitivity.

The organisers reserve the right to ask any attendee to leave an event, or decline their attendance, at any time, for any reason, and expect their decision to be respected. Further discussions with any affected parties will be entered into after the conclusion of the event.

Accessibility

We aim to make events and activities as accessible as possible to as many participants as possible. This includes considering physical accessibility and being open to different learning styles and needs. We will endeavour to communicate all relevant access limitations that may impact attendees in advance of events. 

Commitment to Continuous Improvement

We recognise that creating an inclusive and safe community is an ongoing process. We welcome feedback and suggestions on how we can improve our practices and environment. 


Please see the Contact page if you have any questions or would like to report any incidents.