Anti-Harassment Policy

1. Policy Statement
 

The Bedford Tabletop Expo is committed to providing a safe, welcoming, inclusive, and respectful environment for all attendees, traders, exhibitors, volunteers, and staff.

Harassment of any kind will not be tolerated. This policy applies to all areas of the event, during public opening hours and private booked sessions, and to all interactions associated with the Expo.

 

2. Scope
 

This policy applies to:

• Attendees

• Traders and exhibitors

• Demo hosts and activity leaders

• Volunteers

• Hobby Hive staff and event organisers

This policy is in effect for the full duration of the event, including setup, breakdown, public hours, and private events as well as during any associated communication pre- and post- the physical event

 

3. Expected Standards of Behaviour
 

All participants at the Bedford Tabletop Expo are expected to:

• Treat others with respect, courtesy, and consideration

• Be mindful of personal space and consent

• Follow instructions given by event staff and volunteers

• Help create an environment where everyone feels comfortable participating

 

4. Harassment Definition
 

Harassment includes, but is not limited to:

• Unwelcome verbal comments or behaviour

• Intimidation, threats, or persistent disruption of games or activities

• Unwanted physical contact

• Sexual harassment or inappropriate sexual attention

• Stalking or following

• Discriminatory language or behaviour

• Offensive gestures, imagery, or displays

• Deliberate misgendering or refusal to respect stated names or pronouns

Harassment can occur regardless of intent and regardless of whether it is a single incident or repeated behaviour.

 

5. Zero Tolerance Policy
 

The Bedford Tabletop Expo operates a zero-tolerance approach to harassment.

Any individual found to be engaging in harassing behaviour may face one or more of the following actions, at the discretion of the Event Manager:

• A verbal warning

• Removal from a specific activity or area

• Ejection from the event without refund

• Involvement of venue security or local authorities where appropriate

 

6. Reporting Harassment
 

Anyone who experiences or witnesses harassment is encouraged to report it as soon as possible.

Reports can be made to:

• Any volunteer or staff member

• The Ticket & Information Desk

• The event leads directly

Reports will be taken seriously and handled discreetly.

 

7. Response Procedure
 

When a report is received:

• The safety and wellbeing of the affected person will be prioritised

• The Event Manager or designated lead will assess the situation promptly

• Appropriate action will be taken based on the severity of the incident

• Venue security or emergency services will be involved if required

Individuals reporting harassment will never be blamed for the behaviour of others.

 

8. Confidentiality & Support
 

• Reports will be handled as confidentially as possible

• Information will only be shared with those who need to know to resolve the issue

• Reasonable support will be offered to affected individuals, including a quiet space or accompaniment if requested