Devizes Photography Club Code of Conduct

All members are expected to comply with this code of conduct as a condition of their membership of Devizes Photography Club.

•   Members are entitled to be treated with dignity, respect and common courtesy and are required to act with integrity towards others.

•   Members should not engage in any activity or behaviour that may bring Devizes Photography Club into disrepute during club meetings or other activities.

•   Members should ensure that their dealings with fellow members and guests exemplify and actively foster an environment of mutual trust and respect and at all times support and encourage them in their pursuit of photography.

•   Members shall be supportive of each other's work and not be openly critical or negative. Positive and constructive discussion enabling members to develop their photographic skills and confidence should be encouraged.

•   Members shall be respectful of visiting speakers, judges, and fellow members during meetings by not speaking to others during presentations or judging and ensuring that mobile phones are turned off or turned to silent.

•   Members shall be respectful and welcoming to guests and visitors to the club.

•   Members shall not discriminate on the grounds of age, gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, or religious beliefs.

•   Caroline Wright (Membership Secretary) and David Wilkinson (Chair) are the club’s nominated ‘Listeners’. They are available for members to contact in confidence at any time regarding any issues they may have regarding another member's behaviour at the club, or during club activities. Alternatively, any member of the committee may be contacted in confidence. Issues should be reported on the night or as soon as possible after the event. Any issue reported to a 'Listener’ or a committee member shall be dealt with swiftly and be resolved as quickly as possible, we would aim to conclude any issues within one month; however, if this is not possible then all parties will be kept fully informed on the progress and any reason for any delays.

•   It would always be the aim to resolve any reported incidents informally, but if this is not possible, it will automatically be referred to the committee. If necessary, a private interview, to establish the facts, with the member(s) concerned will be held with the Chairman (or a nominated deputy) and another member of the committee. All involved members are expected to fully engage with the process. Any sexual harassment allegations should have a male and female present.

•   Sanctions available to the committee will include a verbal or written warning for an isolated event. In the event of recurring negative behaviours, failure to engage in the process or a more serious incident, the committee can suspend or expel the member. Any sanctions taken will be decided by a majority vote of the committee.