DARKSWAN Code of Conduct

INTRODUCTION

At DARKSWAN, we are committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and safe environment for all our employees, clients, and partners. This Code of Conduct outlines our expectations for all individuals' behaviour, interactions, and professionalism during their association with DARKSWAN, whether in-person, online, or through any other medium.

SCOPE

This Code applies to all staff, clients, partners, and participants involved in our programmes, activities, and events. It also extends to our joint delivery programmes and any business-to-business (B2B) interactions.

OUR COMMITMENT TO EQUALITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION

DARKSWAN is an ardently anti-racist organisation that values diversity and is committed to promoting equality. We do not tolerate discrimination on the basis of race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or any other legally protected characteristics.

BEHAVOURAL EXPECTATIONS

Respect and Courtesy: All interactions within the scope of DARKSWAN’s operations should be conducted with respect and courtesy. Every individual’s viewpoint is valuable, and we strive to maintain a culture of respect and open dialogue.
Professional Conduct: We expect professional behaviour and language in all communications. Foul language, inappropriate jokes, or derogatory comments are unacceptable.
Alcohol Consumption: Where alcohol is provided at our events, it should be consumed responsibly. We expect participants to maintain professionalism and decorum.
Anti-Harassment and Non-Discrimination: Harassment in any form, including sexual harassment and bullying, is strictly prohibited. Our policy is clear that any behaviour meant to intimidate, degrade, abuse, or coerce another person is unacceptable.
Consent and Physical Contact: Consent is mandatory for any physical contact. Except in emergency situations where intervention is necessary to ensure safety or prevent harm, all individuals must seek explicit consent before initiating physical contact.

Dated: 30 Apr 2024 Review: 30 Apr 2025

INCLUSION AND ACCOMODATIONS

Religious and Dietary Accommodations: DARKSWAN respects individual religious practices and dietary restrictions and will make accommodations accordingly to ensure inclusivity in all our programmes and events.
Accessibility: We are committed to making our programmes as accessible as possible to ensure no one is excluded. This includes physical accessibility to venues as well as the availability of necessary resources to participate fully.

REPORTING AND RESOLUTIONS

Reporting Concerns: Any concerns about breaches of this Code should be reported immediately to a member of the DARKSWAN team. We aim to address concerns swiftly and effectively, with the goal of resolving issues at the lowest level possible to prevent escalation.
Liaison with Leaders and Partners: For B2B engagements, DARKSWAN will liaise with senior leaders to understand and respect cultural sensitivities and specific requests. This collaborative approach ensures alignment and adherence to this Code across all interactions.

COMPLIANCE AND ENFORCEMENT

Adherence: Compliance with this Code of Conduct is mandatory for all individuals associated with DARKSWAN, including staff, participants, clients, and partners.
Enforcement: Any violations of this Code may result in corrective action, including but not limited to suspension or termination of involvement with DARKSWAN activities. For B2B relationships, non-compliance may lead to termination of partnerships. s

CONCLUSION

Our commitment to these principles is unwavering, and we believe that by adhering to this Code of Conduct, DARKSWAN will maintain an environment of integrity, respect, and fairness. We thank all participants for upholding these standards and contributing to a respectful and inclusive community.