CODE OF CONDUCT

Introduction

The Lancaster and Morecambe Walking and Social Group is an organisation which encourages the responsible enjoyment of the countryside accessible from Lancaster and Morecambe as well as on organised excursions across the United Kingdom. The group allows members to walk in the company of fellow members and guests who possess a shared love of the scenery and the outdoors. It is entirely dependent on the voluntary efforts and generous participation of its committee members, walk leaders and organisers of social events.

Conduct of Members

Group members must behave in a manner that is respectful to everyone whether on walks, at social events or in meetings associated with the group. There is a collective responsibility to ensure everyone is safe and enjoying the walk or event.

All members and guests have a right to be safe from inappropriate, discriminatory, or offensive language or behaviours, including those that are threatening, bullying, or behaving in a manner that constitutes harassment.

The group should not be brought into disrepute by the actions, omissions or behaviour of any member or guest attending any group event. The group will not tolerate such behaviour.

Should a member of the group wish to raise a complaint against another member or guest, then they must raise the matter with the Chair (or Vice Chair) in the first instance. Any member may also raise an issue with the Chair (or Vice Chair) if they become aware of an incident or witness an incident that they believe contravenes this Code of Conduct. The Chair (or Vice Chair) should consider the matter and, if they believe the matter is of a minor nature, and they believe it can be dealt with informally, they should agree with the complainant a course of action that should be taken. If agreement cannot be reached, then the Chair (or Vice Chair) may wish to involve another committee member in a decision as to how the matter should be resolved or escalated to a panel as described below.

If the issue is of a more serious nature, then the chair (or Vice Chair) must form a panel of three group officers or committee members to investigate the matter and agree how the issue is to be handled. The panel must consist of those not directly involved in the complaint and the investigation must include discussion (verbal or written as deemed appropriate) with the complainant as well as both or all parties directly involved in the incident.