Penryn Camera Club Disciplinary and Conduct Code
Revision: Aug 2027

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1. Purpose and Scope

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The Penryn Camera Club (PCC) thrives on a foundation of mutual respect, professionalism, and the shared joy of photography. This code ensures that while the club remains open to new ideas and vibrant debate, the integrity of its members and the committee is protected from conduct that causes an irretrievable breakdown in confidence.

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2. Standards of Conduct

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All members, particularly those serving on the committee, are expected to adhere to the following standards:

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• Professionalism: Discussions at AGMs and committee meetings must be conducted politely and professionally.

• Confidentiality: Internal committee discussions and private deliberations are strictly confidential and must not be shared with the wider membership or external parties without authorisation.

• Integrity: Members must refrain from making unsubstantiated allegations concerning the integrity, honesty, or conduct of fellow members or the leadership.

• Whisper network / Side conversations: Members must refrain from gossip about other members or committee decisions in meetings or event spaces. Pass any issues to the chair in writing for formal resolution.

• Unity: Once a majority decides on a committee vote, members should respect the collective decision.
   

3. The Ladder of Escalation

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For minor infractions or behavioural issues, the club follows a three-stage disciplinary process:
 

1. Stage 1: Informal Verbal Warning: The Chair or a designated committee member will discuss the issue with the member to reach an amicable resolution.

2. Stage 2: Formal Written Warning: If the behaviour persists, a formal letter will be issued outlining the required changes in conduct and the potential consequences of further breaches.

3. Stage 3: Termination of Membership: As a final resort, the committee may vote to dismiss a member from the club.

4. Gross Misconduct (Immediate Dismissal)

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The committee reserves the right to bypass Stages 1 and 2 in cases of "Gross Misconduct." This includes, but is not limited to:
 

• Serious Verbal Abuse: Publicly directed at any member or guest.

• Attacks on Integrity: Publicly accusing the committee or individuals of fraud, falsification of records, or cheating without evidence.

• Breach of Confidence: The deliberate leaking of private committee business to cause disruption or "poison" the membership’s perception of the club.

• Irretrievable Breakdown: Any action that makes the continued working relationship between the member and the leadership functionally impossible.
   

5. Special Committee Meeting Protocols

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To ensure "due process" and prevent claims of an "ambushed" agenda, the following protocols apply to disciplinary meetings:

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• Agenda Clarity: The agenda for any meeting considering dismissal must explicitly state: "To consider disciplinary action up to and including the termination of membership".

• Notice Period: While emergency meetings may be called, every effort will be made to provide sufficient notice to ensure a representative majority of the committee can attend.

• Statement Verification: Any "overheard" or observed misconduct should be documented in writing and signed by at least two witnesses at the time of the occurrence to serve as corroboration.
   

6. Voting and Finality
 

• Majority Rule: Disciplinary decisions are made by a simple majority vote of the committee members present, unless a 2/3rd majority is required by the current Constitution.

• Finality of Outcome: Once a vote is taken, the decision is final. Unauthorised "independent investigations" by individual committee members into settled votes are not permitted and may themselves be subject to disciplinary review.