Elmwood Golf Course - Code of Conduct

1. Purpose and Values

The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to promote a positive, inclusive, and respectful environment for everyone who uses or engages with the Course.

The Course is committed to upholding the values of:

• Respect and dignity for all
• Fairness and integrity
• Inclusion and equality
• Safety, wellbeing, and enjoyment of the game

This Code supports the principles promoted by Scottish Golf, recognising that the way individuals behave reflects not only on themselves, but on the wider golfing community.

2. Scope of the Code

This Code of Conduct applies to:

• All members
• Guests and visitors
• Staff, volunteers, and contractors
• Any individual representing or associated with the Course

The Code applies:

• On all Course-owned or managed land and facilities
• At competitions, events, and functions associated with the Course

• To all communications relating to the Course, including verbal, written, and digital communications (including social media and online platforms)

3. General Standards of Behaviour

All persons are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that is reasonable, respectful, and consistent with the values, reputation, and legitimate interests of the Course.

Members and visitors must:

• Act with honesty, integrity, and sportsmanship
• Treat others with courtesy, dignity, and respect
• Comply with the Rules of Golf, local rules, policies, and reasonable instructions issued by Course staff
• Avoid behaviour that may reasonably be regarded as disruptive, unsafe, or detrimental to the enjoyment or wellbeing of others

4. Respect, Equality, and Wellbeing

The Course is committed to providing an environment that is free from harassment, intimidation, discrimination, or victimisation.

Unacceptable behaviour includes, but is not limited to:

• Abusive, aggressive, threatening, or intimidating behaviour
• Bullying, harassment, or unwanted conduct
• Discriminatory language or behaviour relating to protected characteristics
• Offensive, insulting, or degrading comments or gestures
• Behaviour that undermines the dignity, safety, or authority of Course staff

Such conduct may occur in person or through digital or electronic means.

The Course will take action where behaviour negatively impacts the wellbeing, safety, or inclusion of others.

5. Conduct Bringing the Course into Disrepute

Members shall not, through their actions, behaviour, or communications (whether verbal, written, or digital), engage in conduct that is reasonably likely to bring the activities, employees, or the golf course into disrepute. This includes, but is not limited to, conduct that is abusive, offensive, discriminatory, defamatory, dishonest, misleading, or otherwise inconsistent with the standards and values of the Course.

Any conduct which, in the reasonable opinion of the Course, damages or has the potential to damage the reputation, integrity, safety, or good standing of the Course may result in disciplinary action, up to and including suspension or termination of membership.

This obligation applies whether the conduct occurs:

• On or off Course premises
• During or outside golfing activities
• In private or public communications, including social media

6. Alcohol, Substances, and Safety

Alcohol must be consumed responsibly. Intoxication that results in unsafe, disruptive, or inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated.

The possession, use, or distribution of illegal substances on Course premises is strictly prohibited.

All individuals must:

• Take reasonable care for their own safety and that of others
• Follow health and safety guidance and staff instructions
• Refrain from behaviour that creates a foreseeable risk of harm

7. Care of the Course and Facilities

Members and guests are expected to take reasonable steps to protect the Course, facilities, and equipment, including adherence to accepted standards of golf etiquette and course care.

Deliberate damage, misuse, negligence, or failure to follow reasonable instructions may result in disciplinary action and, where appropriate, recovery of costs.

8. Disciplinary Approach

Alleged breaches of this Code will be considered in a manner that is fair, proportionate, and consistent with principles of natural justice.

Where appropriate, the Course may seek to resolve matters informally. However, this will not prevent formal disciplinary action where the seriousness of the conduct requires it.

The Course reserves the right to:

• Investigate alleged breaches
• Take interim measures to protect staff, members, or the Course
• Impose proportionate sanctions based on the nature and seriousness of the conduct

Sanctions may include warnings, suspension of rights, or termination of membership.

9. Responsibility and Acceptance

Use of the Course and its facilities constitutes acceptance of this Code of Conduct.

Members are responsible for the conduct of their guests and may be held accountable for breaches of this Code by those guests.