Last Updated: January 2024

MEMBERS CONDUCT POLICY

Introduction.

Although it doesn’t happen on a regular basis, from time to time, it may be
possible that volunteers and those people taking part in events are exposed to
rude, abusive or threatening situations.
This could be either verbal or physical, but whatever it is, or whenever it occurs,
the WPGA want to make it clear that such behaviour will not be tolerated under
any circumstances.
The Association is run on behalf of its members by a group of volunteers who
willingly give up their time to ensure that the events are run efficiently and fairly.
This policy seeks to protect:
· All participants in events which they enter.
· Event and Parish Organisers.
· Team Captains.
· Referees or Match Officials.
· Executive Committee Members.

Sanctions

In many of the events we do try to use the rules identified by the National
Bodies, but there is scope in certain circumstances for these to be varied.
Where there are any issues raised about the rules or conduct of the event, then
these should be processed in the following way:
1- Discuss with the Team Captain.
2- Discuss with the Parish Organiser.
3- Discuss with the Event Organiser.
4- Discuss with the WPGA Secretary.
5- Submit any proposed changes to the Committee or AGM.

It is the members who determine the rules and this is done at the Annual
General Meeting, which is held at the beginning of each year, when all Parish
Organisers can vote on any proposed rule changes.
In the event of any incidents which are deemed to be abusive or threatening
then the Executive Committee must be allowed to impose sanctions on the
following basis:
1- After a preliminary investigation to establish the facts, that Parish and the
individual concerned may be warned as to their future conduct.
2-If the incident is deemed to be serious enough (e.g., where the person on the
receiving end of the abuse is made to feel fearful) then the Parish may be
withdrawn from that event and adjustments made in respect of their results.
3- In very serious incidents, the Parish may be excluded from all events in that
year’s competition.
The Executive Committee recognise that there is a distinction between abusive
behaviour from those involved with the organising of the Parish activity and
Individuals who are not representative of the local Parish.
Summary.
The Parish Games are organised for the benefit of those people who want to
enjoy friendly competition.TheCommittee are open to suggestions andc hanges
on the basis that they are dealt with in a reasonable manner.
January 2024