Statement of respect and wellbeing

Guidelines for members when attending events online or in person:

It is all our responsibility to set and uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethical behaviour – which is referred to in our code of conduct and each member’s respective core profession’s code of ethical conduct and practice guidelines. We all have the same ethical obligations of professional conduct when attending an event online or in person and should always apply these principles and values. From this, we aim to create a space where everyone feels welcomed, respected and safe.

We’d like to suggest the following collective commitments at our online and in person events:

1. We listen to the contributions of everyone with respectful attention and appreciation.
2. We value the visible and invisible: diversity of everyone attending events by acknowledging our own privileges and biases, and welcome opportunities to engage with people who are different to ourselves.
3. the verbal and non-verbal language we use and opinions we have may differ. We may not always navigate those differences as well as we’d like and would welcome feedback and challenge, seeing them as an opportunity to learn.
4. When we give feedback, we’ll do so constructively with consideration
5. The conversations we have at our events may provoke strong emotions or
   responses, which may vary depending on our lived and generational experiences. We’ll look after ourselves, doing what we need to do, to pay attention to our own wellbeing, and be respectful that others are doing the same.

The event organisers can:

1. Provide all attending the event with a copy of this statement.
2. Provide opportunities for you to share your experiences and thoughts,
   respecting your right to decide how much you wish to do this. Should you wish to share your experience please see a member of the board/event organiser.
3. If you have a concern about an event, please email Louise Mackinney on
   l.mackinney@emdrassociation.org.uk
4. Hear the feedback that you give, act on anything that needs urgent attention and use this to inform future events.
5. Help you to manage your wellbeing by providing breaks during live programmes and low stimulation spaces to break out to.
   

Adapted from BACP Statement of respect and wellbeing