Code of Conduct

Coastal Partnerships Network (CPN) is committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all members, partners and participants. This Code of Conduct outlines the standards of behaviour expected from all those engaging with the Coastal Coordination Hub.      

1. Respect and Professionalism  

All participants are expected to:   

• Treat others with courtesy, dignity, and respect at all times, regardless of background, role, organisation, gender, ethnicity, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or belief.  

• Engage in constructive dialogue and respect differing viewpoints.  

• Avoid language, actions, or attitudes that may be perceived as offensive, derogatory, or discriminatory.  

• Represent themselves and their organisations in a professional manner consistent with the values of the Network.     

2. Inclusion and Participation  

The CPN values contributions from all members. To maintain an open and inclusive environment, participants are encouraged to:   

• Actively listen and support diverse perspectives.  

• Recognise that members have different levels of experience and confidence, ensuring everyone feels welcome to contribute.  

• Participate respectfully in discussions, allowing space for all voices to be heard.

3. Harassment-Free Environment  

The CPN has a zero-tolerance policy for any form of harassment, bullying, intimidation, or unwanted conduct. Harassment includes, but is not limited to:  

• Unwelcome verbal, written, or physical behaviour. 
• Inappropriate jokes, comments, or gestures. 
• Conduct that creates an uncomfortable, hostile, or unsafe environment.  

The CPN reserves the right to take action to combat harassment on the Coastal Coordination Hub without warning, including removal of content and deletion of user accounts.  

4. Confidentiality and Trust  

The Coastal Coordination Hub operates on a foundation of trust and openness. Members are expected to:  

• Respect the confidentiality of information shared in meetings or discussions, unless explicitly agreed otherwise. 
• Avoid disclosing or using sensitive information for personal, commercial, or organisational advantage. 
• Recognise that open exchange of ideas is key to the success of  the Coastal Coordination Hub and maintain discretion when appropriate.    

5. Conflicts of Interest and Accountability  

Members are expected to:   

• Declare any potential conflicts of interest in relation to the Coastal Coordination Hub activities or decisions.  

• Act in the best interests of  the Coastal Coordination Hub and its collective goals.      

6. Non-Solicitation and Appropriate Use  

The Coastal Coordination Hub is a forum for collaboration and knowledge exchange - not for commercial promotion. Members must:   

• Refrain from using the Coastal Coordination Hub activities or communications to advertise or sell products or services.  

• Avoid any activity that could compromise the integrity or purpose of the Coastal Coordination Hub.   

Reporting and Resolution  

The Coastal Coordination Hub is a user-moderated, member-led forum. Members share collective responsibility for maintaining a respectful and safe environment. If inappropriate behaviour or breaches of this Code are observed:  

• Members are encouraged to address issues constructively within the community, seeking resolution through dialogue wherever possible. 
• Concerns may be referred to members of the CPN team for further consideration. 
• Persistent or serious misconduct may be referred to the CPN team, which will review the matter in consultation with those involved. 
• All reports will be treated confidentially and handled in a fair, transparent and proportionate manner.