Scope

This Code of Conduct applies to all BSides Manchester spaces, including the conference venue, workshops, social events, online communications, and any associated gatherings. It applies equally to all participants: attendees, speakers, sponsors, organisers, and volunteers.

Expected behaviour

We expect all participants to:

• Be respectful and considerate in all interactions
• Communicate constructively and avoid demeaning, discriminatory, or harassing behaviour
• Be mindful of your surroundings and fellow participants
• Refrain from destructive or disruptive behaviour
• Alert organisers if you notice a dangerous situation, someone in distress, or violations of this Code of Conduct
• Respect the boundaries and consent of others at all times
• Remember that event venues may be shared with members of the public; please be respectful to all

Unacceptable behaviour

The following behaviours are considered unacceptable at BSides Manchester events:

• Harassment, intimidation, or discrimination in any form
• Verbal, written, or physical abuse of any participant
• Offensive comments related to gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, age, religion, or nationality
• Deliberate intimidation, stalking, or following
• Unwelcome sexual attention or advances
• Sustained disruption of talks, workshops, or other event activities
• Inappropriate physical contact without consent
• Photographing or recording individuals without their consent
• Advocating for, or encouraging, any of the above behaviour
• Unauthorised access to systems, networks, or data at the event venue, including any attempt to access systems beyond those explicitly designated for CTF or workshop activities

Reporting

If you experience or witness any behaviour that violates this Code of Conduct, please report it as soon as possible. You can report in any of the following ways:

• In person: Speak to any organiser or volunteer wearing a clearly identified BSides Manchester crew badge
• By email: hello@bsidesmcr.co.uk
• Anonymously: submit an anonymous report (no sign-in or identifying details required).

All reports will be treated confidentially. You will not be asked to confront anyone, and we will not share your identity without your explicit permission.

The welfare lead for BSides Manchester is Diana N (Co-organiser, Welfare and Operations). Diana can be contacted directly at events or via the email address above.

Enforcement

Organisers will investigate all reports promptly and fairly. Possible responses to a Code of Conduct violation include:

• A verbal warning
• Asking the individual to leave the event immediately, without refund
• A ban from future BSides Manchester events
• Reporting the behaviour to venue security or law enforcement where appropriate

Organisers reserve the right to take any action they deem necessary to maintain a safe environment. Decisions made by the organising team are final.

Sponsor obligations

Sponsors are equally subject to this Code of Conduct. Sponsor representatives, booth staff, and any individuals acting on behalf of a sponsor must comply with all provisions. Violations by sponsor representatives may result in the sponsor being asked to leave the event, with no refund of sponsorship fees.

Contact

If you have questions about this Code of Conduct, or if you would like to discuss any aspect of safety and inclusion at BSides Manchester events, please contact us at hello@bsidesmcr.co.uk.