Policies

1. Purpose

This Code of Conduct sets out the standards of behaviour expected of everyone involved in SMP Theatre. It exists to protect the wellbeing of all members and to ensure the group operates with respect, integrity, and openness in line with its aims.

2. Respect and Inclusion

Treat all members, volunteers, and audiences with courtesy and respect, regardless of background, role, or opinion. Listen carefully to others' ideas and feedback. Celebrate diversity and avoid language or behaviour that could be considered discriminatory, offensive, or exclusionary.

3. Communication

Discuss SMP Theatre matters through appropriate channels, such as meetings, official messages, or approved group chats. Avoid gossip or criticism of individuals, whether in person or online. If you have a concern about someone's behaviour, raise it privately with the Chair, Treasurer, or Welfare

Officer, not through public or informal discussion. Keep sensitive information discussed in committee meetings confidential.

4. Accountability and Professionalism

Act in the best interests of SMP Theatre at all times, not personal agendas. Support collective decisions once they have been made, even if you initially disagreed. Arrive on time for rehearsals, meetings, and performances. Fulfil any agreed commitments or notify others promptly if your circumstances change.

5. Safeguarding and Welfare

Follow SMP Theatre's Safeguarding Policy when working with children or vulnerable adults. Be mindful of the wellbeing of yourself and others. The Welfare Officer can be contacted confidentially for support or advice.

6. Conflict and Complaints

Disagreements may happen, and should be handled calmly, directly, and respectfully. If conflict arises, speak to a committee member before it escalates. Formal complaints should be made in writing to the Committee, who will follow the agreed complaints process.

7. Representation

Members represent SMP Theatre during rehearsals, performances, and public events. Avoid posting negative or divisive comments about SMP Theatre or its members on social media. Promote SMP Theatre positively, in keeping with its community spirit and values.

8. Breaches of the Code

Minor issues will be addressed informally and supportively. Serious or repeated breaches may result in suspension or removal from participation, following fair discussion with those involved.

9. Agreement

By taking part in SMP Theatre activities, members agree to uphold this Code of Conduct and work together in a spirit of respect, collaboration, and enjoyment of theatre.

Approved by: Draft version, to be reviewed November 2025

SMP Theatre is committed to providing a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone involved in our productions, workshops and community activities. We take the safety and wellbeing of children, young people and vulnerable adults very seriously and expect the same commitment from all our members, volunteers and visitors.

All children involved in SMP productions are always accompanied by a parent or licensed chaperone approved by the local council. SMP does not work directly with unaccompanied children.

Our safeguarding approach follows recognised national guidance and local authority procedures. Everyone in SMP has a responsibility to act if they see or hear something that causes concern.

What to do if you have a concern

If a child or adult confides in you, remember TEDDY:
T – Tell me what happened
E – Explain what you mean
D – Describe what happened
D – Don't promise confidentiality
Y – Your responsibility is to contact the safeguarding contact

If you are worried about someone, or if anyone discloses information that concerns you, please contact our safeguarding contact as soon as possible.

Safeguarding Contact
Sharon Toal

Sharon is the first point of contact for any safeguarding concerns and will consult with the committee or relevant authorities if further action is needed.

You can also speak to any member of the SMP Committee, who will pass your concern to Sharon.

1. Who we are

SMP Theatre is a voluntary community performing arts group based in North London & Hertfordshire.

You can contact us at: contact@smptheatre.co.uk

2. What information we collect

We only collect information that helps us run our activities safely and effectively. This may include:

• Your name
• Your email address
• Your phone number
• Any access needs you share with us
• Emergency contact details (if you choose to give them)
• Payment details for workshops or shows
• Photos or videos only if you have given permission

We do not collect more information than we need.

3. How we use your information

We use your information to:

• Manage bookings for workshops, shows and events
• Contact you with updates about an activity you signed up for
• Keep participants safe and supported
• Respond to questions or enquiries
• Improve our sessions and community work

We will only use your information for the purpose you gave it to us.

4. How we store and protect your information

Your information is stored securely and only accessed by SMP Committee members who need it to run an activity.

We use password protected systems and we delete information when we no longer need it.

5. Sharing your information

We do not share your information with anyone unless:

• You have given us clear permission
• We are required to do so for safety reasons
• We are asked to do so by law

We never sell or swap personal information.

6. Photos and videos

We will only use photos or videos of you if:

• You have given consent, or
• You appear only in the background of a public event

You can withdraw your consent at any time by emailing us.

7. Your rights

You have the right to:

• Ask for a copy of the information we hold about you
• Ask us to correct or delete your information
• Withdraw consent at any time
• Ask how your information is being used

Contact us at contact@smptheatre.co.uk if you would like to use any of these rights.

8. How long we keep your information

We keep your information only for as long as we need it. For workshops and events, this is usually until the activity has finished, unless you tell us to keep you on our mailing list.

9. Updates to this policy

We may update this policy as SMP grows or as we move toward charitable status. Any changes will be posted on this page.