Procedure

Wherever possible an attempt should be made to resolve disputes informally with the appropriate person or people. If resolution is not possible, the Club will ask for a written statement from the person with the grievance.

Inform the Committee, via the Chairman or Secretary, or Welfare Officer as appropriate.

• Where the issue is one of child protection notify Welfare Officer.
• Where child protection or harassment is involved a more discrete approach by the Welfare Officer may be more appropriate than a tribunal  If this is the case then advice will be sought from British Canoeing, NSPCC or other competent body at the earliest opportunity 
• If child protection is an issue, the Welfare Officer will involve Social Services/ Police and other agencies as necessary.
• Where the issue is not one of child protection, notify the Chairman (Secretary if Chairman subject of complaint)
• Where the grievance may raise disciplinary issues with another Club member, the alleged wrong doer should be notified and asked for a written statement. The alleged wrong doer may be suspended pending investigation if necessary.

Separate meetings should be arranged with all parties:

• To explain the Club's grievance and disciplinary procedure,
• To explain that individuals may be accompanied by another Club member if they desire, 
• To explain the right of appeal and
• To agree the likely time required for investigation.

Investigation to determine all relevant facts:

• Chairman to convene a tribunal (Secretary if Chairman subject of complaint)
• The tribunal to harness relevant expertise
• The tribunal to avoid conflicts of interest
• Consider whether the Club should nominate an 'advocate' for each party on the tribunal
• Written statements should be requested from any witnesses at the earliest opportunity whilst memories are fresh
• Provide an early opportunity for the alleged wrong doer to present their understandings of the facts

Present findings to Committee:

• Committee to adjudicate or mediate as appropriate
• Committee to decide on any disciplinary action
• Committee to decide whether any other parties should be informed (for example British Canoeing).

Right of appeal to the Directors:

• There will be a right of appeal to the Directors
• The person seeking to appeal should notify the Committee who will liaise with the Directors to make the arrangements for the appeal to be heard