Policies – Harassment

Harassment Policy

At Northern Frights, we are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment for everyone. Harassment of any kind will not be tolerated and this policy applies to all attendees, guests, volunteers, security staff, and team members.

What Is Harassment?

Harassment is any unwelcome behaviour that causes someone to feel intimidated, uncomfortable, or unsafe. This may be physical, verbal, written, or digital. If someone communicates that your actions or words are unwelcome, you must stop immediately. If they request no further interaction, this must also be respected.

Harassment is defined by the person experiencing it.

Examples of behaviour that may be considered harassment include, but are not limited to:

  • Offensive or inappropriate comments about someone’s appearance, gender, race, religion, sexuality, identity, disability, or background.

  • Bullying, discrimination, or targeting someone unfairly.

  • Catcalling, whistling, or making sexual advances without consent.

  • Following someone or blocking their movement.

  • Disrupting panels, Q&As, or performances with the intent to upset, mock, or interfere.

  • Recording or photographing someone without their permission.

  • Indecent exposure or mimicking sexual acts.

  • Harassing someone about the bathroom they feel most comfortable using.

  • Physical contact without clear, enthusiastic consent.

  • Persistently messaging, calling, or emailing someone after being asked to stop.

  • Any repeated behaviours that contribute to a hostile or uncomfortable environment.

Cosplay is not consent.
Someone wearing a costume or portraying a character is never an invitation to touch them, invade their space, or take photos without permission.

Additionally, loud, disruptive noises such as shouting, blasting music, or using devices like air horns are not permitted unless specifically authorised. Please be mindful of others, particularly in shared spaces like hallways and queuing areas.

Guidelines On Explicit Content

Costumes must adhere to basic standards of decency, covering areas typically covered by swimwear (e.g., genitalia, buttocks, and chest). Flashing, exposing yourself, or intentionally displaying sexual content is strictly prohibited.

Clothing, props, or signage containing explicit or graphic content must remain out of view within the event space.
Traders and artists selling explicit materials must:

  • ensure such items are not publicly visible on display

  • verify the age of customers before showing or selling explicit content

  • package all purchases discreetly

Reporting An Issue

If you witness or experience behaviour that violates this policy, we encourage you to report it promptly. All reports will be taken seriously. You may report incidents even if you are not directly involved.

Retaliation for reporting an issue will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Intentionally making a false harassment report to harm someone is also considered misconduct.

You can report harassment to:

Consequences Of Breaching The Policy

Anyone found in violation of this policy may face one or more of the following actions, depending on the severity of the behaviour:

  • A formal warning (only one warning will be issued)
  • Immediate removal from the event without a refund
  • A ban from attending future Northern Frights events
  • In serious cases, involvement of the police or other relevant authorities