This code of conduct outlines expectations for behaviour at ABPCO Events to provide a welcoming, respectful, and harassment-free environment for all participants. We value the participation of every member of our community and want to ensure everyone has a positive, rewarding experience at our conference/events.

ABPCO requests that all attendees, speakers, exhibitors, suppliers, sponsors, staff, and volunteers adhere to this code of conduct at events and report any concerns about potential misconduct to Heather Lishman as soon as possible. As an organisation, we are committed to enforcing this code throughout our events. Please review it carefully before registering and participating.

We ask everyone participating:

• To be supportive of each other, both proactively and responsively. Offer to help if you see someone struggling or otherwise in need of assistance (taking care not to be patronising or disrespectful). If someone approaches you looking for help or support, be generous with your time and knowledge. If you can’t assist, let them know when you will be able to help or direct them to someone else who may be of assistance.
   
• To be inclusive. Avoid slang or idioms that might not translate across cultures or be deliberate in explaining them to share and represent the attendees’ diverse cultures and languages. Speak plainly and avoid acronyms and jargon that not everyone may understand.
   
• To be collaborative. Involve all individuals in any relevant activities including during sessions and networking.
   
• To be kind. Be polite and friendly in all forms of communication both in person and online.

ABPCO does not tolerate harassment, intimidation, or discrimination of participants based on gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, national origin, ethnicity, religion, age, or any other status protected by law.

Examples of unwelcome behaviour include, but are not limited to:

- Offensive verbal comments related to gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, race, national origin, religion, age, marital status, military status, or any other status protected by law

- Deliberate verbal or physical intimidation

- Stalking and/or following

- Harassing or inappropriate photography, audio or video recording, text or email messaging

- Inappropriate physical contact including unwelcome sexual attention

If a participant violates this code of conduct in any way, ABPCO reserves the right to take actions deemed necessary to maintain a professional, inclusive environment.

This may involve:

- Participants asked to stop harassing behaviour are expected to comply immediately

- Sponsor or supplier/vendor privileges may also be revoked for inappropriate conduct

- Issuing a verbal or written warning

- Expulsion from the current and/or future events

- Revoking sponsor or supplier privileges

- Legal action

Please report Violations to: Heather Lishman, Director, ABPCO - heatherlishman@abpco.org, 01386 858886

We expect cooperation from all participants to help promote a safe, respectful event experience.

Please contact Heather Lishman with any questions or concerns about this policy.