Code of Conduct

At Dugdale Arts Centre (DAC), we believe that creativity thrives in an environment of mutual respect, inclusivity, and safety. This Code of Conduct applies to everyone who enters our space, whether you are an artist, a staff member, a venue hirer, a customer, or a member of the public.

By entering DAC, you agree to uphold the following standards of behaviour.

1. Core Principles

  • Respect for all: Treat every individual with dignity. We have a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination, harassment, or bullying based on race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, religion, or background.
  • A safe environment: Help us maintain a space that is physically and emotionally safe. This includes following all health and safety guidelines and respecting the physical boundaries of others.
  • Care for the space: Respect our facilities, equipment, and the work of our artists. Vandalism or the misuse of DAC property will not be tolerated.

2. Expected Standards of Behaviour

To ensure the DAC remains a welcoming hub for the community, we expect all users to:

  • Use language that is inclusive and non-threatening.
  • Communicate with staff and fellow visitors in a polite and constructive manner.
  • Be mindful of noise levels and the impact of your actions on performances or rehearsals in progress.
  • Comply with any reasonable instructions given by the DAC management or staff team.

3. Prohibited Behaviour

The following behaviours are strictly prohibited and considered a breach of this Code:

  • Offensive language: The use of profanity, hate speech, derogatory remarks, or aggressive shouting directed at staff, performers, or other visitors.
  • Aggression: Any form of physical violence, verbal abuse, or intimidating gestures.
  • Intoxication: Being under the influence of illegal substances or excessive alcohol that results in disruptive behaviour.
  • Harassment: Unwanted sexual advances, stalking, or persistent disruption of others' enjoyment of the space.

4. Enforcement and Consequences

We value our community and will always seek to resolve issues through dialogue where possible. However, to protect our staff and patrons:

Dugdale Arts Centre reserves the right to refuse service, remove individuals from the premises, or terminate hire contracts immediately and without refund if any person displays behaviour that violates this Code of Conduct.

For artists and hirers, a significant breach of these terms may result in the cancellation of future bookings and a permanent ban from the venue.

5. Reporting an Incident

If you experience or witness behaviour that makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, please:

  1. Alert a member of staff immediately.
  2. Ask to speak with the Duty Manager.
  3. Contact us via email at culture@enfield.gov.uk for formal reporting.

Thank you for helping us keep Dugdale Arts Centre a vibrant, safe, and respectful home for the arts.