Code of Ethics
Totnes Dance Collective Code of Ethics
Introduction to the Code
The aim of the Code of Ethics is to provide guidelines as shared principles and best practices for those facilitating, supporting and steering the TDC.
We recognize that TDC members (facilitators, space supporters and steering group) come from diverse backgrounds, cultures, professions, communities, gender identities, sexual orientations, beliefs and so on; we welcome diversity as a strength and source of ongoing learning.
As facilitators, as well as those in voluntary support roles (VSR) and members of the Steering Group (SGM) aka Steering Circle (SC), we regularly face ethical challenges that require self-reflection, self-responsibility and enquiry. We aspire to educate ourselves and seek to embody the values of dignity, respect, equality, integrity and compassion, and, above all, keep ourselves free from harm.
Facilitators, VSR and SGM are asked to agree to the Code of Ethics and we recognize that situations can arise that challenge this agreement. The aim of the Code of Ethics is to provide ethical guidelines, to support them to recognize when they are in a situation that requires ethical support, and to strongly encourage them to seek both peer and professional support.
Some of the following will apply to facilitators and to VSR and SGM and some will only apply to facilitators - this will be clearly indicated:
THE CODE OF ETHICS
1.Professional and Personal Integrity
A commitment to personal and professional integrity provides a solid foundation and basis for our work.
FOR ALL
1.1 Respectful, collaborative communication with our colleagues and peers as a basis for cultivating good connection.
FOR FACILITATORS
1.2 A commitment to ongoing education in the practice we offer.
1.3 Ongoing self-reflection on our work and practice.
1.4 A commitment to some form of regular supervision or peer support.
2. Safety & Awareness
FOR ALL
A commitment to safety and awareness.
We are dedicated to providing a safe space for movement exploration. This includes:
2.1 Ensuring sobriety in our sessions. This means neither facilitators nor dancers, should use
intoxicants that affect awareness before or during classes or workshop sessions.
2.2 To do our best to prevent physical harm to participants and/or ourselves.
3. Healthy Boundaries
A commitment to healthy boundaries.
We aim to maintain healthy boundaries. We are aware that the power differential between facilitators, and, to a lesser degree for VSR and SGM, and dancers could lead to increased vulnerability on the part of our dancers. We will not use our role to engage in the abuse or exploitation of dancers sexually, emotionally or financially.
3.1 Sexual Boundaries
FOR FACILITATORS
3.1.1 To be in a sexual relationship or romantic intimacy is not appropriate between facilitators
and dancers in the space with the following guidance:
• In an exceptional case where a relationship develops over time between a facilitator and
dancer.
• A minimum time period must elapse from the end of the facilitator-dancer relationship and the beginning of a sexual and/or romantic relationship. We recommend this is at least 3 months to allow time and space for clear seeing, and to prevent impulsive decisions that might harm facilitator and/or dancer alike.
• A clear understanding from both parties that the facilitator-dancer relationship has ended.
• The facilitator has a responsibility to get professional supervision and/ or peer support to explore potential areas of unconsciousness and any personal issues involved.
3.2 Emotional Boundaries
FOR ALL
3.2.1 We are responsible for respecting the welfare and best interests of our dancers.
3.2.2 We do not use our role to take advantage of dancers and will not depend on dancers to fulfil emotional and social needs.
3.3 Financial Boundaries
3.3.1 We are clear and fair in our business dealings.
4. Accountability
A commitment to accountability.
We make ourselves accountable to TDC dancers and to each other. Should any complex boundary or territorial issue arise we will practice responsible communication and dialogue, and seek peer support and/or professional supervision. If an issue cannot be resolved through these means we will consult with and seek the support of the Totnes Dance Collective Steering group and, if necessary, to independent external mediation.
