The purpose of this code of conduct is not to impose unrealistic, or draconian rules on our membership, nor to seek to police, or dictate the behaviour of individual members. However, the club is represented by its membership to the general public, and to the wider amateur community in our meetings, at our special events, and on the air. We also, as an organisation, have a responsibility to the other members of our club, to ensure that each and every member is free to enjoy the hobby in their own way, without discrimination, abuse, offence, or interference. The guiding principles of our Code of Conduct are set out below:
- We show respect, compassion and understanding for our fellow members, and treat each and every individual as friends and equals. We refrain from discriminatory or offensive behaviour, or language, both in our meetings and on the air.
- We uphold the reputation of the club in all our dealings, and seek to promote the club to the wider community.
- We support the club in a voluntary capacity when asked, and when possible, and we give our time to support community events and organised club activities, when we are able.
- We pool and share our knowledge freely and provide support to those who need our help in whatever way we can.
- We observe best practice in the construction of our equipment and stations, and follow the codes for good operating practice on the air.
- We refrain from actions and practices that diminish the enjoyment of the hobby to others.
- We recognise and respect that differences of opinion exist, and that healthy and positive debate is the cornerstone of our hobby. We do not resort to personal attacks, or cause offence to other members, simply because we do not agree with their point of view.
- We do not seek to deliberately undermine, or diminish, other club members, or the decision making of the club officers or committee. The committee both exists for, and is elected by the membership to make decisions on behalf of all members, and we respect the democratic process.
- The club officers and committee are always available to discuss the concerns of members in regard to club policy, but if the issue cannot be resolved, members should respect the fact that the committee decision is final.
- We respect the contribution made by visiting speakers and demonstrators. We arrive promptly for the start of the meeting, we listen respectfully and quietly to what is said, and show our appreciation in the traditional way when the talk is over.
- We deal with disputes and differences of opinion openly and directly, and only where necessary through the Advocacy, or Escalation Procedure, described in later sections of this document.
- Amateur radio is unique in its diversity – it has many facets, interests and specialities within the broad church that represents the hobby. We respect that members may have many differing interests and motivations, and that the club and the membership should do its utmost to support those differing interests.
Dispute and Escalation Procedure
In the rare (or unlikely) event that the conduct of a member gives rise to serious concern, or there is a dispute that cannot be resolved amicably, the following escalation path will be followed:
- The Club Chairman should be notified of the concern and provided with specific written evidence of the dispute or alleged misconduct.
- Where possible, disputes will be resolved through a process of advocacy, whereby a neutral party of good standing (an Advocate) who is acceptable to both parties involved in the dispute, will act as a mediator.
- Where Advocacy fails, or is not appropriate, a review panel will be constituted comprising members of the committee, to include a minimum of two club officers and two committee members. A chair of the review panel will be appointed by the other panel members.
- Where the complaint has been made by one or more full members, the review panel will meet with the complainants to establish the nature of the accusation. Written minutes of this meeting will be taken by the chair detailing the evidence presented.
- The review panel will ask the member in question to attend a private meeting with the review panel and the member may ask to be represented, or accompanied, by another member or individual if they wish.
- Where the member in question refuses to attend the review panel meeting, or does not respond to the allegations, the review panel may meet in their absence to discuss the allegations and review the evidence.
- Hopefully, with all parties willing to engage with the investigation, the matter may be resolved amicably to the satisfaction of all parties. However, if there is still a dispute, or the member is unwilling to engage with the club in order to resolve the matter, the review panel may have to make a decision based on the evidence available.
- The review panel will decide on a course of action based on the evidence. This may include the ultimate sanction of revoking the membership of the member concerned.
- The review panel will meet with the member concerned to deliver their decision and allow the individual the right of appeal, or compromise. Where the member refuses to engage with this process, the committee will write to the member to provide a written statement and will take appropriate action based on their decision. Where this is the case, the committee decision will be final and binding.