Code of conduct

Introduction

We are a community that celebrates life and gathers to support one another, grow together, and make a positive impact in the world. Central to this mission is a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment where all people, regardless of their backgrounds, identities, or beliefs, feel welcome and valued.

Sunday Assembly London is a place for connection. To foster an atmosphere where everyone feels they belong, it is essential that each member, volunteer and participant embodies our values of respect, kindness, and openness. This Code of Conduct outlines the behaviour we expect from everyone who joins our gatherings, activities and engages with us online, helping to ensure that our community remains a positive, supportive, and inclusive space for all.

By upholding these guidelines, we aim to create a space where:

• Safety is paramount: A safe environment allows each person to contribute without fear of harassment, discrimination, marginalisation or abuse. Together, we can create a place where everyone feels comfortable and accepted.
• Everyone is respected: We celebrate diversity. Treating each other with respect allows us to build authentic connections and learn from each other’s unique perspectives.
• Inclusivity is a priority: We recognise that every person’s needs are different. We commit to making supportive adjustments to enable everyone to participate.

The following Code of Conduct is our commitment to each other and to our mission. By honouring these principles, we create a space where everyone can live better, help often and wonder more – together.

Expected and unacceptable behaviour

At Sunday Assembly London, we trust each member will embody our values by helping to create a supportive and collaborative atmosphere – whether at events, online, or in any interaction – with fellow attendees, members or our volunteers.

We expect everyone to:

• Respect diverse viewpoints: Embrace differences with an open mind. We will not tolerate discriminatory behaviour – including homophobic, racist, transphobic, ageist, ableist, or sexist remarks. We value varied perspectives and experiences as essential to building a rich and inclusive community.
• Use welcoming and inclusive language: Speak thoughtfully and avoid exclusionary comments or jokes, violent language or intimidation. Recognise language affects others and that Sunday Assembly is an environment where everyone should feel safe and valued. Be patient and respectful with those for whom English may be a second (or third or fourth!) language or those who might face other communication or cognitive barriers.
• Respect personal space and boundaries: Avoid unwelcome physical contact or any form of unwanted social attention. Harassment – including sexual attention or repeated, unwelcome contact – is never acceptable. Remember that consent is explicit, conscious, and ongoing. If in doubt, ask, and respect the answer.
• Prioritise privacy and safety: Respect others’ privacy, including by not photographing or recording anyone who has asked you not to. Refrain from sharing other participants’ personal stories or details without their permission. Posting someone’s private information or threatening to do so (known as ‘doxing’) is a serious violation of our code.
• Be mindful of participation and engagement: Give others space to share and contribute. Make efforts not to interrupt others or be dismissive of others’ views.
• Speak up against inappropriate behaviour: We encourage a community where everyone feels empowered to address inappropriate behaviour. If you observe an issue, take action where it is safe to do so. If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe intervening, seek support from a member of our Coordination Crew. If someone is in physical danger it may be necessary to contact the police.
• Exercise humility, empathy and intentionality: Approach all interactions with intentionality, empathy and humility. If mistakes are made, acknowledge, apologise and learn from them.
• Maintain respect: Whether online or in person, keep all interactions respectful. Appreciate the contribution of our volunteers – who are giving their time and skills for free. Treat everyone with dignity, courtesy and kindness – always.

To ensure Sunday Assembly London remains a welcoming and supportive environment we have a zero-tolerance policy for behaviours that undermine our values of safety, respect and inclusion.

The following examples represent conduct that is unacceptable within our community:

• Exclusionary comments: Any remarks or actions that marginalise or exclude individuals based on race, gender, sexuality, disability, religion, age or any other characteristic.
• Threats or intimidation: Causing someone to fear for their safety through stalking, intimidation or aggressive behaviour.
• Violent language or bullying behaviour: Use of violent or abusive language or threats directed at others – either verbal or written.
• Inappropriate or sexual behaviour or content: Sharing sexual or violent images or engaging in unwelcome sexual attention.
• Non-consensual physical contact: Any physical contact that is unwelcome or non-consensual.
• Disruptive behaviour: Repeated interruptions or disruptions of events, talks or discussions that prevent others from fully engaging. Shouting at others or raising voices in an aggressive or intimidating manner.
• Personal attacks or insults: Engaging in insults, put-downs or disparaging comments directed toward other community members.
• Discriminatory jokes and slurs: Making jokes or comments that are sexist, racist, homophobic, transphobic, ableist or otherwise discriminatory.
• Excessive swearing or inflammatory language: Avoid excessive swearing or using language that may incite tension or offence among participants. Be mindful we are a family-friendly community and children may be present. Adjust tone and content of communications accordingly.
• Incitement to harm: Encouraging or inciting violence, self-harm or other harmful actions.
• Continued unwanted contact: Persisting in engaging with someone – including photography or recording – after they have requested you stop.
• Violation of privacy: Sharing private communications, messages, or personal information without consent.

Reporting

We are committed to addressing any concerns or breaches of the Code of Conduct promptly and fairly.

Any breach of this Code of Conduct will be taken seriously and could result in temporary or permanent suspension depending on the nature and severity of the breach.

Anyone who feels they have experienced or witnessed discrimination, exclusion or other inappropriate behaviour should raise it with the Coordination Crew Lead in the first instance.

The report should include:

• Date, time and location of the incident.
• A description of the breach (what happened).
• The names of those involved (if known).
• Any witnesses to the incident.

Anyone who would like to make a report anonymously can contact the Coordination Crew Lead, who will handle all anonymous reports sensitively and confidentially.

Seeking immediate help

The police should be contacted to report any criminal activity – including physical or sexual assault and theft or to report a dangerous physical situation e.g. fear that someone will hurt themselves or someone else.