Code of conduct

Newcastle Code of Conduct & Safety Policy

At Newcastle Congress, we are dedicated to providing a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for everyone, regardless of dance experience, skill level, age, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, race, or religion.

By attending our classes, workshops, or socials, you agree to abide by this Code of Conduct.

1. Consent and Boundaries

• The Right to Say No: Anyone can decline an invitation to dance, chat, or interact at any time, for any reason, without giving an explanation. A polite "No, thank you" must always be respected.

• Ask and Listen: Always ask before initiating a dance, and check in before trying close-connection holds, dips, or dramatic styling choices. If your partner asks you to change your connection, loosen your grip, or avoid certain movements, do so immediately.

• No Aerials on the Social Floor: For the safety of everyone around you, aerial lifts, drops, and extreme weight-support moves are strictly prohibited during social dancing. They are only permitted during designated performances or supervised workshops.

• Feedback on the Floor: The social dance floor is a place for connection, not critique. Unsolicited teaching, correction, or feedback during social dancing is discouraged unless a movement is causing you physical pain or discomfort.

2. Harassment and Inappropriate Behaviour

We have a zero-tolerance policy for harassment. Inappropriate behaviour includes, but is not limited to:

• Offensive verbal comments related to personal characteristics or identities.

• Non-consensual physical contact, sexual attention, or deliberate intimidation.

• Following, stalking, or inappropriate photography/recording without explicit permission.

• Sustained disruption of classes, workshops, or social dancing.

• Advocating for, or encouraging, any of the above behaviours.

3. Alcohol and Physical Safety

• Responsible Drinking: If you choose to consume alcohol, please do so responsibly. Staff reserve the right to refuse service or ask you to step off the dance floor if your impairment risks your safety or the safety of others.

• Floor Craft: Be aware of your surroundings. If you accidentally bump into or kick someone, pause and check that they are okay.

• Hygiene and Attire: Dance is a close-contact activity. Please practice good hygiene, consider bringing spare shirts if you sweat heavily, and wear appropriate dance footwear to prevent injuries and protect the venue floor.

4. How to Report an Issue

If you feel unsafe, experience harassment, witness someone else being mistreated, or have any safety concerns, please reach out to us immediately:

• In Person: Locate one of our designated Stewards. They will be wearing lanyards and can be found at the front desk.

Digital / Anonymous Reporting: You can submit an issue at any time via email by emailing Stuart191912@yahoo.com

All reports will be handled with the utmost confidentiality, discretion, and respect for your privacy.

5. Consequences and Enforcement

Participants asked to stop any harassing or unsafe behaviour are expected to comply immediately. If a participant violates these rules, the event organizers retain the right to take any actions necessary to keep the event safe, including:

• Issuing a formal verbal warning.

• Restricting access to certain workshops or social rooms.

• Expelling the offender from the event immediately without a refund.

• Banning the individual from all future events