‘For Men To Talk’ Code of Conduct

As a mens peer support group, ‘For Men To Talk’ have a code of conduct to abide to. All attendees to a physical, virtual or walking meeting must agree to the following: 

1. Respect the confidentiality of group attendees. What is shared in the group should stay in the group
2. Create a safe, comfortable and enjoyable environment to communicate
3. Support each other’s challenges and successes no matter how large or small
4. Listen actively and avoid interrupting others while they are speaking
5. Speak from your own experience and avoid giving unsolicited advice
6. Show empathy and understanding towards others and their experiences and struggles
7. Avoid any criticism of any attendee
8. Avoid bringing up sensitive topics or triggering memories for others without their permission
9. Avoid engaging in any confrontational conversation
10. Avoid engaging in any physical, sexual or verbal abuse
11. Avoid discussions to be had regarding poilitics and religions
12. Avoid using language that is sexist, racist, or otherwise discriminatory
13. Be open-minded and willing to learn from others
14. Banter is acceptable, but it must be in an appropriate and correct manner and timing
15. Be proud of the difference we’re making at ‘For Men To Talk’

If an attendee of the ‘For Men To Talk’ physical, virtual or walking meeting fails to abide by the group’s code of conduct, the facilitator may take the following steps:

1. Have a private conversation with the attendee to discuss their behaviour and how it is impacting the group
2. Provide the attendee with an opportunity to reflect on their actions and explain from their perspective.
3. Encourage the attendee to take responsibility for their actions and make amends to the ‘For Men To Talk’ group or individuals affected by their behaviour
4. If the attendee is unwilling or unable to change their behaviour, they may be asked to leave the ‘For Men To Talk’ group temporarily or permanently
5. Depending on the severity of the behaviour, the facilitator may also contact the appropriate authorities if the attendee’s behaviour is violative of any laws or if there is any risk of harm to any attendee

‘For Men To Talk’ emphasises that the safety and well-being of the group attendees should always be the top priority and that’s why the code of conduct exists.