Participant Guidelines These guidelines are used for events, networking sessions, training and workshops which Dudley CVS are involved in delivering.
1. Supporting everyone to participate We ask everyone to respect the rights of others and to participate in discussions as equals. This means not interrupting others when they are speaking and not using your status to make others feel less important. Everyone is equally important and our differences need to be valued. Hopefully we can all co-operate and support each other. We want everyone to feel comfortable about participating in whatever way they feel able.
2. Language Sometimes people use words or phrases which have special meanings and which are not understood by all people. This jargon is almost unavoidable because we all use it but we may forget that others may not understand. If you do not understand it is not your fault and you should not feel stupid if you need someone to explain what is meant. Remember, there is no such thing as a stupid question! If you do not understand something please say so. Please avoid using language which could be construed as racist, sexist, or discriminates or is offensive to people with disabilities. If you feel that language is offensive you have the right to say so. We would expect that person to change their behaviour. If you are nervous about saying something in public, you could approach the person privately, or ask for help from the facilitator.
3. Respect and behaviour Events, networking sessions, training and workshops often bring together people who have a variety of roles from community, voluntary, and faith groups and also officers from Dudley Council, the NHS and other public services. Whilst we encourage constructive criticism please respect people in different roles and from different organisations to your own. Participants must not behave in ways which are unreasonable, unwelcome, and offensive to others or which exclude other participants. Any behaviour which creates an intimidating, hostile or humiliating environment at the event is unacceptable. If you are treated in any way that you find offensive and wish to discuss this with a facilitator or trainer and we will make every effort to resolve the issue with you.
4. Confidentiality Sometimes in group discussions people feel they want to draw on their own experience, but may not want people outside the group to know the details they are sharing. We can’t guarantee that people you are working with will keep what you say confidential, so you must take responsibility for what you choose to disclose.