Policy Statement
PCS is committed to providing a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment at all its events—regardless of format. We aim to ensure that all participants, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, race, nationality, or belief, feel respected and valued. Harassment of any kind will not be tolerated. All staff, partners and attendees are expected to adhere to this Code of Conduct throughout the event.
Expected Behaviour
All event participants are expected to:
- Be considerate, respectful, and professional in all interactions.
- Engage in behaviour and communication appropriate to a professional audience, including individuals from diverse cultural and social backgrounds.
- Avoid the use of sexual language, imagery, or content in any format.
- Foster a kind and collaborative atmosphere—insults, demeaning comments, or hostility will not be tolerated.
- Be mindful of the impact of your actions on those around you.
If you witness unacceptable behaviour or someone in distress, you are encouraged to notify the PCS team immediately.
Unacceptable Behaviour
The following behaviours are strictly prohibited at all PCS events:
- Harassment, including but not limited to: offensive or unwelcome comments, whether verbal, written or visual, that relate to gender, sexual orientation, race, appearance, religion, disability, or any other protected characteristic.
- Sexual misconduct, including inappropriate physical contact, sexual attention or innuendo, and the use of sexualised imagery (including in presentations or virtual backgrounds).
- Physical or verbal aggression, including threats, intimidation, stalking, pushing, shoving, or any unwelcome physical contact.
- Disruption of talks, sessions, or networking activities.
- Wearing attire that is inappropriate for a professional setting or that may reasonably be deemed offensive.
- Tampering with event infrastructure or entering restricted areas without authorisation.
Please note that many PCS events take place in venues that are open to the public. Attendees must also be respectful towards non-participants present in shared spaces.
Consequences of Unacceptable Behaviour
Any attendee found to be engaging in unacceptable behaviour may face the following consequences, at the discretion of the PCS organisers:
- Immediate removal from the event without prior warning or refund.
- Exclusion from future PCS events (blacklisting).
- Reporting to appropriate authorities where criminal conduct is suspected.
All attendees must comply immediately with any request to stop unacceptable behaviour.
Reporting Violations
To report an incident or concern:
- Speak directly to a member of the PCS onsite team.
- Alternatively, email your report in writing to events@pcsmarket.org.
All reports will be handled with discretion and seriousness.
Health and Safety Responsibilities
- Attendees must take reasonable care for their own health and safety, and that of others potentially affected by their actions.
- Do not interfere with, tamper with, or operate any event equipment or furnishings unless authorised.
- Restricted areas must not be entered without permission.
- If a cloakroom or storage space is provided, PCS accepts no responsibility for personal belongings. Items left are at the owner's risk.