Purpose of this Code of Conduct

The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to:

1. Ensure a constructive, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all attendees, volunteers, speakers, sponsors, and organisers of BSides Cheltenham.
   
   

2. Clearly outline the behaviour attendees can expect from others and the standards expected of them during the conference.
   
   

3. Establish procedures for addressing concerns or incidents that may arise during the event.
   
   
   

For the purposes of this Code of Conduct, “BSides Cheltenham,” the “event,” or the “conference” is defined as encompassing all official activities organised by BSides Cheltenham. This includes the main event, the official afterparty, and the sponsor and speaker pre-social, whether these take place on the event premises or at external locations.

1. Respect for Others

As a BSides Cheltenham attendee, you are expected to:

a) Respect Organisers and Volunteers

• Treat the organisers and volunteers with respect and courtesy.

• Follow all instructions provided by organisers and volunteers, who have dedicated their time to make this event possible.

  
  

b) Respect Presenters

• Arrive promptly for talks, ensure mobile devices are silenced, and minimise movement or disruption during presentations.

• Refrain from heckling, harassing, or interrupting presenters unnecessarily.

• Respect presenters’ preferences regarding questions and give others the opportunity to participate in discussions.

  
  

c) Respect Fellow Attendees

• Engage respectfully in conversations and debates, even when opinions differ.

• Avoid actions or words that could cause harm, distress, or discomfort to others.

• Be patient and considerate, particularly in crowded areas or high-demand activities.

  
  

d) Promote a Positive Atmosphere

• Treat all individuals fairly and equally, embracing the diversity of backgrounds, cultures, and experiences.

• Actively foster an environment where everyone feels included, valued, and safe.

2. Equal Opportunities
   
   

All attendees are expected to:

a) Uphold principles of equality and inclusion, irrespective of race, age, ethnicity, disability, gender identity, mental or physical health, religion, sexuality, or cultural background.

b) Avoid and report any form of discrimination, harassment, bullying, or intimidation.

c) Acknowledge that BSides Cheltenham has a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination or harassment in any form.

3. Prohibited Behaviour
   
   

The following behaviours are strictly prohibited at BSides Cheltenham:

1. Harassment, including unwelcome verbal, physical, or visual conduct.
   
   

2. Threatening, intimidating, or abusive behaviour towards anyone.
   
   

3. Disruption of presentations, activities, or the conference environment.
   
   

4. Distribution of explicit, inappropriate, or offensive material.
   
   

5. Unauthorised recording or sharing of presentations or private conversations without consent.

4. Reporting and Escalation
   
   

If you experience or witness unacceptable behaviour, you should:

1. Report the Incident:

• Approach an organiser or volunteer, who can escalate the matter to the Response Team.

• Clearly describe the incident, providing any relevant details.

2. Confidentiality:

• Your report will be treated with the utmost confidentiality, and information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis.

3. Response Team Actions:

• The Response Team will assess the situation and determine appropriate actions, which may include warnings, removal from the event, or further investigation.

5. Consequences of Violations
   
   

BSides Cheltenham reserves the right to take appropriate action for breaches of this Code of Conduct, including but not limited to:

• Issuing verbal or written warnings.

• Removing individuals from the conference without a refund.

• Banning individuals from future events.

• Reporting incidents to relevant authorities, where necessary.

6. Commitment to Improvement
   
   

BSides Cheltenham is committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment. Feedback about the Code of Conduct or its implementation is welcome and can be shared anonymously through the feedback channels provided during the conference.

Let us work together to ensure BSides Cheltenham is a positive, inspiring, and respectful experience for all.