Code of Conduct
We are called Safe Haven – Cornwall primarily because we provide a SAFE place to visit, stay and socialise. We are safe from scrutiny from outside and carefully protect our address, we are in a fairly private location and the exterior areas are extensively covered by CCTV. People are also safe inside by our insistence that all activities are within the law, and with ensuring we have firm boundaries on acceptable behaviour and dress. Taking of all illegal drugs, whether soft or hard, is forbidden on the premises. Equally, any form of sexual harassment will not be tolerated, and should be reported to one of the trustees. Anyone found to be transgressing will be asked to leave the premises IMMEDIATELY and could be banned permanently.
We are a Registered Charity that was established to provide support in a number of ways to people experiencing gender diversity issues in a variety of ways, and exists as a safe and supportive space for gender diverse people and allies to come together for mutual support, campaigning and celebration of all of our intersecting identities.
Adherence to this Code of Conduct at all Safe Haven – Cornwall events will help ensure that the most pleasant and enjoyable environment possible can always be enjoyed at Safe Haven.
BE KIND - We're all in this together to create a welcoming environment. Let's treat everyone with respect. We don’t all have to agree, but kindness is required.
NO HATE SPEECH OR BULLYING - Oppressive and discriminatory behaviour will not be tolerated. This includes but is not limited to Gender and LGBTQ+ based phobia, racism, xenophobia, sexism, fatphobia, slut shaming, kink shaming, ableism and/or ageism. Whilst we will always prioritise the safety of group members, we appreciate that we are all learning, and some inappropriate language/behaviour will come from ignorance rather than malice. So, we will, where appropriate, reach out to the member responsible for the behaviour/language to have a conversation with them/allow them to reflect on their own behaviour before deciding on whether they can take part in future groups. In all other cases, the member will be removed from the group.
LIVES ARE NOT OPEN FOR DEBATE - Lives and rights are not up for discussion/debate in this group. Safe Haven – Cornwall was set up to support ALL people with gender diversity issues. No one should be asked to justify their identity, expression and/or existence. Intentional misgendering and/or deadnaming will not be tolerated.
RESPECT EVERYONES PRIVACY - Authentic, expressive discussions make groups great, but may also be sensitive and private. What's shared in the group should stay in the group.
NO REPRESENTITIVES - No one should be asked to represent or speak on behalf of an entire group. We speak for ourselves and take ownership of our own thoughts, feelings and opinions.
PARTY POLITICS AND RELIGION ARE NOT OPEN FOR DEBATE – everyone is entitled to their own opinions, but please keep to yourselves whilst at Safe Haven.
SOBER SPACE – Please ensure that you always consume alcohol ‘sensibly’, the license holder has the right to refuse to serve you if she feels this is in your best interests. Please respect this.
Please also note:
Even though there will be Safe Haven Trustees attending the session, please don't share any information that could put you at risk. You may not know everyone in the session.
DRESS CODE – Please always dress ‘appropriately’, showing respect for others and never in a way that could be considered exhibitionist. Underwear is, as indicated by the name, to be worn underneath clothing, and not be deliberately on public display.
The Trustees, Safe Haven – Cornwall
