The Board of WGUK/DCUK and the Trustees of Marching & Performing Arts United Kingdom primary function is to ensure competitive events and the general reputation of the organisations is maintained through structured, safe, and inclusive activity. Members of all performing units, staff and their supporters are subject to the following Code of Conduct. Breach of this Code could bring penalties, such as disqualification, financial loss, suspension from,  or loss of, membership of WGUK.

1. All performers, staff and supporters must show respect for others both in person at events, and through communication (including socials) after. No activity, or series of activities, should bring an individual, group or WGUK/DCUKMPAUK into disrepute. Directors are responsible for ensuring the behaviour of their performers, staff (including themselves) and supporters always aligns with this.

2. Award ceremonies are a chance to celebrate the performers and their achievements. This is not solely represented by scores and placements. Every performer tries their best to be the best they can and this must always be our focus. Respect between performers, staff and supporters should be shown consistently during this special time. Obscene language, gestures or any other actions that may cause offence will not be tolerated. 

3. Performers should always be aware of their equipment and performance space. Vocal warnings should be issued to people in the vicinity of uncontrolled equipment. 

4. If Critiques are made available then during critiques, attendees must be respectful of others in the room and in the waiting area. They must adhere to the Critique rules. Failure to do so will be investigated and may result in future restrictions.

5. When members and supporters are attending competitions or shows, they must ensure that the appropriate tickets are purchased, and performers are aware of any restrictions to their access. WGUK/DCUK and its members should support each other to maximise the success of any show. #FillTheVenue.

6. Where official instructions are issued either by the show sponsor or WGUK/DCUK/MPAUK officials, these must be followed. Things will not always be perfect, but there will be good reason for them! This includes the scenery Marshall in operation at Championships.

7. The Directors/Managers Meeting held virtually before shows are compulsory. If the Director cannot attend, then an appropriate alternative person must do so and that information given, both at these virtual meetings and any in person meetings on the day, is passed on to all within your organisation. Important information about the venue and ensuring the safety of the performers will be discussed and may need to be shared. It may also be helpful to have a member of the floor crew on the call for clarity around scenery storage and movement.

8. Keeping to timings is imperative. The show will be directed (as best as possible) by the arena Marshall and sponsor/WGUK/DCUK/MPAUK staff. Directors must ensure that key timings (including building access) are shared with their groups and that these are adhered to. There are reasons for the timings and if they are not respected then this will disrupt the flow of the day. 

9. Safeguarding is everyone’s business. Directors hold responsibility for ensuring appropriate checks are in place for their organisations. All staff and WGUK/DCUK/MPAUK officials must be aware of appropriate ways to behave, especially in matters concerning instructions regarding changing rooms and any wider safety issues relating to the venue being used for an event. Wristbands clearly indicate areas that can be accessed by wearers and must be adhered to. In case of any concerns, please follow the appropriate procedures as outlined in the compulsory training. 

10. We often operate in public spaces. The usual guidelines for these must be followed and our activity should not inconvenience the public. We want people to be intrigued, impressed, come and watch our wonderful performers, and aspire to join in!

Updated 1st November 2024