Victorian Historical Combat Academy (VHCA)

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Member Protection Policy

VHCA Sword Bayonet Logo

The Victorian Historical Combat Academy is dedicated to fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all members. Whether experienced fencer or novice, every member is expected to uphold the principles of safety, respect, and anti-discrimination at all times.

  1. Safety First
    1. Proper Attire: All members must wear appropriate fencing protection, including jackets, masks, gloves, and plastrons, during any instruction, practice, competition, or open hall, to prevent injuries.
    1. Equipment Maintenance: Members are personally responsible for the regular inspection and maintenance of their equipment to ensure they are in safe working condition.
    1. Controlled Sparring: Where possible sparring should be conducted under the supervision of a third member, instructor or coach. Where this is not possible, sparring should always be conducted in a safe manner according to the agreement between the two members. Members at all times must respect the wishes and agreement with their partner and practice controlled and disciplined movements to prevent injury. Intentional brutality or aggression will not be tolerated and may result in disciplinary action.
    1. Drugs and Alcohol: No participant may engage in any fencing activities whilst intoxicated.
    1. Emergency Procedures: Familiarise yourself with the club’s emergency procedures and first aid protocols. In case of injury, notify a suitably qualified member immediately.
    1. Familiarise yourself with Victorian State Government legislation regarding weapons and follow the relevant laws.
  • Respect of All
    • Respectful Interaction: Treat all fellow fencers, instructors, and guests with courtesy and respect, regardless of their skill level or background.
    • Encouragement and Support: Encourage and support fellow members in their fencing journey. Constructive feedback, if welcomed by the receiving person should be given in a positive and helpful manner.
    • Professional Conduct: Exhibit professionalism in behaviour and speech. Abusive language, bullying, or harassment will not be tolerated.
    • Equipment and venue: Treat any equipment provided to you and our venue with respect and care.
  • Commitment to Growth
    • Continuous Learning: Strive for continuous improvement in your fencing skills and knowledge. Attend club training sessions, workshops, and events regularly.
    • Sportsmanship: Display good sportsmanship in all fencing activities. Win or lose, maintain dignity, grace, and respect for opponents.
  • Anti-Discrimination
    • Inclusivity: The club is committed to providing an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of race, gender, age, religion, or background, feels welcomed and valued.
    • Equal Opportunity: All members have equal access to training, resources, and opportunities for competition. Discriminatory practices in any form are strictly prohibited.
    • Awareness and Education: Promote awareness and education on issues of diversity and inclusion. Participate in club-led initiatives and discussions to further these principles.
  • Sexual Harassment
    • Zero Tolerance: The club maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual harassment, including unwanted discussions or comments of a sexual nature. Any such behaviour will be met with immediate disciplinary action.
  • Reporting Breaches
    • Notification of Breaches: Any member who becomes aware of, or witnesses a breach of this Code of Conduct is required to report the matter directly to our organisers or anonymously using our incident report form, below. All reports will be handled in strict confidentiality and in accordance with the VHCA privacy policy.
  • Handling of reports of breaches of the Code of Conduct
    • Violation of Conduct: Where an organiser receives a complaint from a person regarding breaches of this code of conduct, the organiser will take the complaint seriously, record the complaint (via record of complaint Attachment 1: VHCA Member Protection Policy), and deal with complaint in accordance with section 10 of VHCA Member Protection Policy. Possible consequences of a breach of this code of conduct may include warnings, suspension, or expulsion from the club, depending on the severity of the infraction.
    • False or Malicious allegations: False and/or malicious complaints are a breach of this Code of Conduct and the person making the false or malicious complaint will be dealt with according to section 7.1 above.

If you have a negative experience at one of our events, we fully encourage you to speak to one of our organisers or to report it via our incident report form, anonymously if you wish.

VHCA Complaint Form

The VHCA reserves the right to suspend or deny service to anyone who we believe conflicts with our code of conduct, or contributes to an unhealthy training environment for our participants.

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