Spike Island is home to a wide community of artists and creative practitioners, and is a space to enjoy and celebrate contemporary art. Everyone is welcome here. When you visit us or work with us, you commit to acting by our code of conduct. This helps us ensure that Spike Island safely supports everyone’s needs and experiences.

BE OPEN-MINDED

Contribute with an open mind, respect different views, and recognise that other people may be dealing with challenges that are not always visible.

BE KIND

Be kind, compassionate and respectful to yourself and others.

LISTEN AND SUPPORT

Try to listen, understand and encourage others to take part.

CHOOSE YOUR WORDS WITH CARE

Words can have many different connotations, so be aware of the impact your language may have upon others and understand that people may express things differently to you. Our Inclusive Language Guide may help.

RESPECT EACH OTHER

We don’t tolerate discrimination on the basis of race, gender, sexuality, religion, class, age or dis/ability and we will challenge it.

RESPECT PERSONAL BOUNDARIES

Respect personal boundaries and don’t assume that others have the same boundaries as you.

ADDRESS OTHERS CAREFULLY

Inform us of your preferred pronouns, respect those of others and avoid making assumptions. Sometimes mistakes happen, and we are all learning, so try to be understanding.

CONSIDER YOUR PRIVILEGE

Structural inequality means that other people’s experiences may differ from your own. Consider how this affects others and be conscious of the benefits and advantages you may have because of your gender, race, religion, age, sexual orientation, health, education, mental or physical ability, and/or socioeconomic background.

SEEK CONSENT TO FILM OR PHOTOGRAPH

Ask for consent to film, photograph or record others and/or share things online, and respect people’s right to refuse.

REPORT INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOUR

Support your peers if you witness any inappropriate behaviour or language being directed towards them, and please make Spike Island staff aware if this happens.

Updated September 2023

Please contact us if you have any feedback or comments on this Code of Conduct: admin@spikeisland.org.uk