Harassment Policy

At Horror Con Scotland, 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 can include physical actions, verbal remarks, or other forms of behaviour. 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 determined 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, or identity.
• Bullying, discrimination, or targeting someone unfairly.
• Catcalling, whistling, or making sexual advances without consent.
• Following someone or blocking their movement.
• Disrupting someone’s panels or talks with the intent to upset or mock them.
• Recording or photographing someone without their consent.
• Engaging in indecent exposure or mimicking sexual acts.
• Harassing someone about the bathroom they feel most comfortable using.
• Physical contact without clear consent.
• Persistently messaging, calling, or emailing someone after being asked to stop.
• Any repeated actions that contribute to a hostile or uncomfortable environment.

If someone is wearing a costume or cosplay, this is not an invitation for you to touch them or take photographs without permission. Always remember there is a real person underneath, and they must be treated with respect.

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

Guidelines on Explicit Content

Costumes must adhere to basic standards of decency, covering areas typically covered by swimwear (e.g., genitalia, buttocks, and chest). Any behaviour such as flashing or exposing yourself to others will not be tolerated.

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 they are not visible on display, verify the age of customers before sharing such content, and package 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, and you are welcome to report incidents even if you are not directly affected. Retaliation for reporting an issue will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Harassment incidents can be reported to Event Security or Horror Con Scotland Staff Members. Alternatively, you can contact us directly via email at hello@northernfrights.co.uk, if you feel more comfortable doing so.

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 Horror Con Scotland events.
• In serious cases, involvement of the police or other relevant authorities.

At Horror Con Scotland, we are committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive atmosphere for all. Your cooperation in upholding these standards helps us achieve that goal. Thank you for your understanding and support.