Towner strives to be an inclusive, enjoyable and safe space for everyone, this covers staff and volunteers and the artists we work with, as well as the visitors and participants who visit our venue in person or experience our activities offsite/online.
To help us achieve this aim we ask everyone to read and follow Towner’s Code of Conduct.
Expect Action
Towner is an anti-racist and anti-discriminatory organisation and is continuously working toward being better. Sexual harassment, acts of aggression, racism, misogyny, transphobia, homophobia, religious bigotry or hatred and discrimination of any kind are not permitted and will be dealt with quickly and effectively.
If we witness or encounter any behaviour that is discriminatory or it is reported to us, we reserve the right to insist the perpetrator(s) leave(s) the building or an event (including digital events). We will investigate and report hate incidents/hate crimes and/or support others to report these themselves. Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol does not exclude or excuse abusive behaviour.
Situations involving staff will be dealt with using our disciplinary procedures.
Speak out
If you see disagreeable or discriminatory behaviour please report it, or challenge it. You can do this by challenging it yourself if you feel able to, or make a member of Towner staff aware in person, or by flagging it to the host(s) of the online event. We will take this seriously and either support you to report it or we can report them on your behalf.
Be open-minded
Keep an open mind. Everyone has a different life experience and may be struggling with challenges that are not always visible. Do not make assumptions on the opinions or experiences of others. Actively listen.
Respect boundaries
Be aware of, and respect, the emotional and social boundaries of others. Don’t assume that others have the same physical and emotional boundaries as you.
Be kind with words
Be kind with your words and aware of the power of language to include or exclude. Be aware of how the words you use might affect others. Take time to understand the issues and use inclusive language. Be respectful of pronouns and ask people how they want to be addressed.
Share the space
Make every effort to share our space(s) with kindness and consideration for other people’s needs. Some people will not have had the opportunities and experiences you may have had and may not be as comfortable in the space as you.
Express opinions respectfully
We encourage you to express your opinions in a constructive, non-judgemental, respectful and courteous manner.
Consent
Seek consent and if someone says ‘no’, or asks you to stop something, then stop. This includes taking photographs or recordings which may include other people. We occasionally photograph and film during events and we will let you know when this is happening so that you can opt out.