Policies

National Dance Association of South Africa (NDSSA)

Online Publication – Applicable to All Activities, Properties, and Proxies

POLICY STATEMENT:

The National Dance Association of South Africa (NDSSA) is committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and dignified environment for all persons who engage with our organisation. We affirm the constitutional values of human dignity, equality, and freedom, and we reject all forms of unfair discrimination, harassment, victimisation, or exclusion. This policy applies to all NDSSA activities, premises, digital platforms, employees, volunteers, contractors, participants, spectators, partners, and representatives.

1. LEGAL FRAMEWORK: SOUTH AFRICAN FOUNDATIONS

This policy is grounded in and gives effect to the following South African legislation and constitutional principles:

1.1 Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996

• Section 9 (Equality): Guarantees equal protection and benefit of the law; prohibits unfair discrimination directly or indirectly on one or more grounds, including race, gender, sex, pregnancy, marital status, ethnic or social origin, colour, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, conscience, belief, culture, language, and birth [[Constitution s9]].
• Section 10 (Human Dignity): Everyone has inherent dignity and the right to have their dignity respected and protected.
• Section 30 & 31 (Cultural, Religious, and Linguistic Communities): Rights to participate in cultural life, subject to consistency with the Bill of Rights.

1.2 Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act 4 of 2000 ("PEPUDA")

• Section 6: Prohibits unfair discrimination by both state and private persons on listed and analogous grounds.
• Section 10: Defines harassment as a form of unfair discrimination.
• Section 11: Places a positive duty on persons (including organisations) to promote equality and eliminate discrimination.
• Section 20–26: Provides for civil remedies, including damages, interdicts, and declaratory orders [[PEPUDA]].

1.3 Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 ("EEA")

• Applies to NDSSA employees and volunteers in employment-like relationships.
• Prohibits unfair discrimination in any employment policy or practice on any arbitrary ground (Section 6).
• Requires affirmative action measures to advance designated groups (Black people, women, persons with disabilities) [[EEA]].

1.4 Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act 53 of 2003 ("B-BBEE")

• NDSSA supports transformative economic participation and will, where applicable, align procurement, partnerships, and development programmes with B-BBEE objectives.

1.5 Other Relevant Legislation

• Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013 (POPIA): Ensures sensitive personal information (e.g., disability, health, religion) is processed lawfully and confidentially.
• Children's Act 38 of 2005: Protects minors from discrimination, abuse, and exploitation in all NDSSA youth programmes.
• Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993: Requires reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities in the workplace and event environments.
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2. DEFINITIONS

3. SCOPE OF APPLICATION

This policy applies to:

✅ All Persons: Participants, dancers, choreographers, teachers, judges, volunteers, staff, contractors, sponsors, spectators, parents, guardians, and visitors.

✅ All Activities: Competitions, workshops, rehearsals, classes, auditions, performances, conferences, social events, online programmes, and travel associated with NDSSA.

✅ All Locations: NDSSA-owned or leased premises, third-party venues, public spaces used for NDSSA events, and digital/virtual platforms.

✅ All Communications: Official NDSSA correspondence, social media, marketing materials, websites, and publications.

✅ All Decisions: Selection, casting, judging, promotions, funding allocations, partnerships, and disciplinary actions.

4. PROHIBITED CONDUCT

NDSSA expressly prohibits the following:

4.1 Direct and Indirect Discrimination

• Denying participation, membership, or opportunity based on a prohibited ground.
• Applying neutral criteria that disproportionately disadvantage a protected group without justification.
• Segregating or isolating persons based on identity characteristics.

4.2 Harassment and Hostile Environments

• Verbal abuse, slurs, jokes, or stereotypes related to prohibited grounds.
• Unwelcome physical contact, gestures, or intimidation.
• Display of discriminatory symbols, imagery, or content (online or offline).
• Cyberbullying, doxxing, or targeted online harassment via NDSSA platforms.

4.3 Victimisation and Retaliation

• Penalising, threatening, or disadvantaging any person for:
• Reporting discrimination or harassment
• Supporting a complainant
• Participating in an investigation or proceeding
• Asserting rights under this policy or PEPUDA

4.4 Failure to Accommodate

• Refusing reasonable adjustments for persons with disabilities, religious observances, caregiving responsibilities, or other legitimate needs, where feasible.

4.5 Complicity and Endorsement

• Tolerating, ignoring, or endorsing discriminatory conduct by staff, volunteers, participants, or partners.
• Selecting venues, suppliers, or partners known to practice unfair discrimination.

5. POSITIVE DUTIES: PROMOTING EQUALITY

In line with PEPUDA Section 11, NDSSA commits to:

🔹 Proactive Inclusion: Actively recruit, mentor, and develop talent from historically disadvantaged and underrepresented groups in dance.

🔹 Accessibility: Ensure physical venues, digital content, and communication materials are accessible to persons with disabilities (e.g., ramps, sign language interpretation, captioning, plain language).

🔹 Cultural Respect: Honour South Africa's linguistic and cultural diversity in programming, costume guidelines, music selection, and event protocols.

🔹 Training: Provide regular equality, dignity, and anti-harassment training for staff, volunteers, judges, and event organisers.

🔹 Data Monitoring: Collect anonymised demographic data (with consent) to measure transformation progress and identify barriers, in compliance with POPIA.

🔹 Partnership Standards: Require contractors, sponsors, and venue partners to adhere to equivalent non-discrimination standards.

6. REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION GUIDELINES

NDSSA will engage in an interactive process to accommodate diverse needs, including:

Accommodation requests should be directed to the NDSSA Equality Officer (contact details below). Requests will be assessed promptly, confidentially, and in good faith.

7. REPORTING AND COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE

7.1 How to Report

Any person who experiences or witnesses discrimination, harassment, or victimisation may report via:

📬 In Person: To any NDSSA staff member, volunteer coordinator, or event manager

Reports may be made anonymously, though this may limit investigation capacity.

7.2 What to Include (If Possible)

• Names of persons involved (complainant, respondent, witnesses)
• Date, time, location, and description of incident(s)
• Any supporting evidence (messages, photos, videos)
• Desired outcome or interim measures (e.g., separation, counselling)

7.3 Complaint Handling Process

1. Acknowledgment: Within 3 business days.
2. Assessment: Determine if the matter falls under this policy; refer to external bodies if appropriate (e.g., SAHRC, CCMA).
3. Investigation: Conducted by an impartial NDSSA Equality Officer or external expert. Both parties may present evidence.
4. Interim Measures: May include temporary separation, suspension of alleged perpetrator from activities, or support for complainant.
5. Outcome: Written findings with reasons; remedies may include apology, training, disciplinary action, restitution, or policy changes.
6. Appeal: Either party may appeal the outcome within 14 days to the NDSSA Board or designated appeals panel.

7.4 External Recourse

Complainants retain the right to approach:

• South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC): www.sahrc.org.za
• Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA): For employment-related disputes
• Equality Court: In terms of PEPUDA, for civil remedies
• Information Regulator: For POPIA-related privacy concerns

8. ENFORCEMENT AND SANCTIONS

8.1 For NDSSA Personnel (Staff/Volunteers)

• Breaches may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment or volunteer status.
• Mandatory retraining or counselling may be imposed.

8.2 For Participants, Contractors, or Partners

• Sanctions may include:
• Written warning
• Mandatory equality training
• Suspension from NDSSA activities
• Removal from events or premises
• Termination of contracts or partnerships
• Public disavowal (where appropriate and lawful)

8.3 For Judges, Adjudicators, or Selectors

• Bias or discriminatory decision-making may result in:
• Removal from panels
• Nullification of affected decisions
• Review of selection criteria and processes

8.4 Restorative Measures

Where appropriate, NDSSA prioritises restorative justice approaches, including facilitated dialogue, community accountability, and healing-centred responses.

National Dance Association of South Africa (NDSSA)

Online Publication – Applicable to All Events, Activities, and Premises

PURPOSE STATEMENT:

This Code of Conduct establishes the ethical, professional, and behavioural standards expected of all NDSSA adjudicators, judges, technical officials, event managers, volunteers, and representatives (collectively, "Officials") during all NDSSA-sanctioned events. Its purpose is to ensure fairness, integrity, safety, and dignity in accordance with South African constitutional values and applicable legislation.

BY ACCEPTING AN OFFICIAL ROLE WITH NDSSA, YOU ACKNOWLEDGE AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THIS CODE.

1. LEGAL AND ETHICAL FOUNDATIONS

This Code is grounded in and gives effect to:

1.1 Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996

• Section 9: Equality and prohibition of unfair discrimination
• Section 10: Right to human dignity
• Section 12: Freedom and security of the person
• Section 16: Freedom of expression (balanced with responsibility)
• Section 32: Right of access to information

1.2 Key Legislation

1.3 NDSSA Governance Documents

• NDSSA Constitution and Memorandum of Incorporation
• Non-Discrimination, Equality, and Dignity Policy
• Public Indemnity and Waiver Policy
• Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy

2. DEFINITIONS

3. CORE PRINCIPLES OF CONDUCT

All Officials must uphold these foundational values:

🔹 Integrity: Act honestly, ethically, and in good faith at all times.
🔹 Impartiality: Make decisions based solely on merit, criteria, and evidence—free from bias, favouritism, or external pressure.
🔹 Respect: Treat all persons with dignity, courtesy, and cultural sensitivity.
🔹 Accountability: Take responsibility for decisions, actions, and omissions.
🔹 Confidentiality: Protect sensitive information in line with POPIA and ethical obligations.
🔹 Professionalism: Maintain appropriate boundaries, appearance, language, and demeanour.
🔹 Safety: Prioritise the physical and emotional well-being of participants, especially minors.
🔹 Inclusion: Actively promote equitable participation and reasonable accommodation.

4. SPECIFIC STANDARDS OF CONDUCT

4.1 Before the Event: Preparation & Disclosure

✅ Mandatory Declarations

• Disclose in writing any actual or potential conflict of interest (e.g., familial relationship with a participant, financial interest in a studio, prior coaching relationship) to the NDSSA Event Director before accepting an appointment or commencing duties.
• Update disclosures immediately if circumstances change during the event.

✅ Competence & Readiness

• Only accept roles for which you possess the requisite qualifications, training, and experience.
• Review NDSSA rules, scoring criteria, safety protocols, and this Code prior to the event.
• Attend mandatory pre-event briefings and equality/safeguarding training.

✅ Professional Boundaries

• Do not solicit or accept gifts, favours, hospitality, or benefits from participants, studios, or sponsors that could influence impartiality (token hospitality of nominal value may be acceptable if disclosed).
• Avoid dual relationships (e.g., adjudicating a student you privately coach) unless fully disclosed and managed with NDSSA approval.

4.2 During the Event: Execution & Behaviour

✅ Impartial Judging & Decision-Making

• Apply published criteria consistently, objectively, and transparently.
• Base scores/decisions solely on observed performance—not on reputation, studio affiliation, personal preferences, or external pressure.
• Document scoring rationales where required; be prepared to provide constructive, criteria-based feedback.

✅ Professional Demeanour

• Use respectful, inclusive, and age-appropriate language at all times.
• Refrain from public criticism, sarcasm, humiliation, or disparaging remarks about participants, colleagues, or NDSSA.
• Maintain appropriate physical boundaries; avoid unnecessary physical contact, especially with minors.

✅ Anti-Discrimination & Harassment

• Actively prevent and interrupt discriminatory or harassing conduct by others.
• Do not engage in comments, jokes, gestures, or imagery related to race, gender, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or any prohibited ground (PEPUDA s10).
• Respect diverse cultural expressions, costumes, music, and dance forms within the bounds of event rules.

✅ Confidentiality & POPIA Compliance

• Do not disclose participants' personal information, medical conditions, scores prior to official release, or deliberation details.
• Secure physical documents and digital devices containing personal information.
• Report suspected data breaches to the NDSSA Information Officer immediately.

✅ Safety & Duty of Care

• Monitor the environment for hazards (slippery floors, unsafe equipment, overcrowding) and report concerns to event management.
• Respond appropriately to medical emergencies: alert qualified personnel, do not provide treatment beyond your training.
• For minors: never be alone with a child in a private space; follow NDSSA's two-adult rule and safeguarding protocols.

✅ Use of Technology & Social Media

• Do not photograph, record, or livestream participants without explicit consent and NDSSA authorisation.
• Do not post comments, scores, or images related to the event on personal social media that could compromise fairness, privacy, or NDSSA's reputation.
• Official communications must be channelled through approved NDSSA platforms.

✅ Substance Use & Fitness for Duty

• Do not perform official duties while under the influence of alcohol, illegal substances, or medication that impairs judgment or coordination.
• Manage fatigue; request relief if unable to perform duties safely and effectively.

4.3 After the Event: Follow-Through & Reflection

✅ Feedback & Debriefing

• Provide constructive, criteria-based feedback to participants where required.
• Participate in post-event debriefs to improve processes and address concerns.

✅ Continuing Confidentiality

• Maintain confidentiality of event-related information indefinitely, unless disclosure is required by law or authorised by NDSSA.

✅ Professional Development

• Engage in ongoing training on adjudication standards, equality, safeguarding, and legal compliance.

5. CONFLICT OF INTEREST: MANAGEMENT PROTOCOL

Failure to disclose a conflict of interest may constitute gross misconduct.

6. REPORTING BREACHES & CONCERNS

6.1 Duty to Report

All Officials have a positive obligation to report:

• Observed or suspected breaches of this Code
• Discrimination, harassment, or victimisation
• Safeguarding concerns involving minors or vulnerable persons
• Safety hazards or fraudulent conduct

6.2 Reporting Channels

Reports may be made confidentially via:

🗣️ In Person: To the NDSSA Event Director, Equality Officer, or Safeguarding Lead

Anonymous reports are accepted, though this may limit investigation capacity.

6.3 Protection Against Retaliation

NDSSA prohibits victimisation of any person who reports concerns in good faith. Retaliation is itself a serious breach of this Code and may result in disciplinary action.

7. INVESTIGATION & DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURE

7.1 Initial Assessment

• Reports are acknowledged within 3 business days.
• The NDSSA Conduct Committee (or appointed independent investigator) assesses jurisdiction, urgency, and interim measures.

7.2 Interim Measures (If Required)

• Temporary suspension from official duties
• Separation of parties involved
• Preservation of evidence
• Support for complainants (counselling, advocacy)

7.3 Fair Investigation Process

• Both the complainant and respondent have the right to:
• Be informed of allegations
• Present evidence and witnesses
• Be accompanied by a support person (non-legal, unless employment-related)
• Receive written findings with reasons

7.4 Outcomes & Sanctions

If a breach is substantiated, sanctions may include:

Sanctions are proportionate, documented, and subject to appeal.

7.5 Appeal Process

• Either party may appeal the outcome within 14 calendar days to the NDSSA Board or an independent appeals panel.
• Appeals are limited to procedural fairness, new evidence, or manifestly unreasonable outcomes.

7.6 External Reporting Obligations

NDSSA will report to external authorities where required by law:

• South African Police Service (SAPS): For criminal conduct (assault, abuse, fraud)
• Department of Social Development: For child abuse/neglect (Children's Act s110)
• Information Regulator: For serious POPIA breaches
• SAHRC or Equality Court: For systemic discrimination complaints

8. ACKNOWLEDGMENT BY ACCEPTANCE OF ROLE

BY ACCEPTING AN OFFICIAL ROLE WITH NDSSA, YOU CONFIRM THAT:

1. You have read, understood, and voluntarily agree to comply with this Code of Conduct;
2. You will uphold the highest standards of integrity, impartiality, and respect;
3. You will disclose conflicts of interest promptly and completely;
4. You will report breaches, safeguarding concerns, or safety hazards without fear or favour;
5. You understand that non-compliance may result in disciplinary action, removal from duties, and/or legal consequences under South African law;
6. You consent to the processing of your personal information for administration, training, and compliance purposes in accordance with POPIA.
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If you cannot commit to these standards, you must decline the official appointment.

National Dance Association of South Africa (NDSSA)

Online Publication – Applicable to All Events, Competitions, and Activities

PURPOSE STATEMENT:

This Code of Conduct establishes the behavioural, ethical, and safety standards expected of all dancers, choreographers, and performance participants (collectively, "Competitors") at NDSSA-sanctioned events. Its purpose is to promote fairness, respect, safety, and the spirit of dance in accordance with South African constitutional values and applicable legislation.

BY REGISTERING FOR, ATTENDING, OR PARTICIPATING IN ANY NDSSA EVENT, YOU ACKNOWLEDGE AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THIS CODE.

1. LEGAL AND ETHICAL FOUNDATIONS

This Code is grounded in and gives effect to:

1.1 Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996

• Section 9: Equality and prohibition of unfair discrimination
• Section 10: Right to human dignity
• Section 12: Freedom and security of the person
• Section 16: Freedom of expression (balanced with responsibility)
• Section 28: Special protection for children

1.2 Key Legislation

1.3 NDSSA Governance Documents

• NDSSA Constitution and Competition Rules
• Non-Discrimination, Equality, and Dignity Policy
• Public Indemnity and Waiver Policy
• Code of Conduct for Adjudicators and Officials
• Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy

2. DEFINITIONS

3. CORE PRINCIPLES OF CONDUCT

All Competitors must uphold these foundational values:

🔹 Respect: Treat officials, fellow competitors, staff, venues, and audiences with dignity and courtesy.
🔹 Fair Play: Compete honestly, adhere to rules, and accept outcomes with grace.
🔹 Integrity: Represent yourself, your team, and your choreography truthfully.
🔹 Inclusion: Celebrate diversity; reject discrimination, exclusion, or harassment.
🔹 Safety: Prioritise your well-being and that of others; report hazards promptly.
🔹 Responsibility: Own your actions, words, and their consequences.
🔹 Sportsmanship: Win with humility; lose with dignity; support fellow dancers.

4. SPECIFIC STANDARDS OF CONDUCT

4.1 Before the Event: Preparation & Registration

✅ Eligibility & Compliance

• Ensure you meet all age, grade, category, and qualification requirements for your entered division.
• Submit accurate registration information; misrepresentation may result in disqualification.
• Obtain parental/guardian consent if under 18 years (mandatory).

✅ Choreography & Content Review

• Ensure routines comply with NDSSA theme, time limit, music, and content guidelines.
• Verify that all music, costumes, and props comply with copyright law and cultural sensitivity standards.
• Avoid content that is violent, sexually explicit, politically inflammatory, or discriminatory.

✅ Health & Fitness Declaration

• Confirm you are physically and mentally fit to participate.
• Disclose any medical conditions, allergies, or accessibility needs to NDSSA in advance to enable reasonable accommodation.
• Obtain medical clearance if required for high-risk categories.

✅ Professional Preparation

• Review NDSSA competition rules, scoring criteria, and this Code prior to arrival.
• Attend mandatory pre-event briefings (virtual or in-person).
• Ensure costumes, props, and equipment meet safety standards (no sharp edges, flammable materials, or hazardous attachments).

4.2 During the Event: Behaviour & Performance

✅ Respect for Officials & Process

• Follow instructions from stage managers, marshals, and adjudicators promptly and courteously.
• Accept scoring decisions without confrontation; formal queries must follow the official appeals process.
• Do not approach adjudicators during or immediately after performances to debate scores.

✅ Sportsmanship & Peer Conduct

• Applaud fellow competitors; celebrate diverse styles and skill levels.
• Do not intimidate, mock, sabotage, or distract other performers.
• Support teammates and ensemble members; foster a positive, collaborative environment.

✅ Anti-Discrimination & Harassment

• Do not engage in comments, gestures, costumes, or choreography that demean, stereotype, or exclude persons based on prohibited grounds (PEPUDA s10).
• Respect cultural, religious, and linguistic diversity in music, movement, and expression.
• Report observed discrimination or harassment to an Official immediately.

✅ Safety & Venue Conduct

• Warm up appropriately; do not attempt movements beyond your trained ability without supervision.
• Use designated changing, warm-up, and performance areas only.
• Keep backstage and performance zones clear of personal belongings, food, or hazardous items.
• Report unsafe conditions (slippery floors, faulty equipment, overcrowding) to event staff immediately.

✅ Technology, Recording & Social Media

• Do not photograph, record, or livestream other competitors' performances without explicit consent and NDSSA authorisation.
• Do not post scores, adjudicator comments, or behind-the-scenes content that compromises fairness, privacy, or NDSSA's reputation.
• Respect "no phone" zones (e.g., adjudication areas, backstage).

✅ Substance Use & Fitness for Performance

• Do not compete while under the influence of alcohol, illegal substances, or medication that impairs coordination or judgment.
• Manage fatigue, hydration, and nutrition responsibly; seek medical assistance if unwell.

✅ Costume, Props & Presentation

• Ensure costumes are age-appropriate, secure, and culturally respectful.
• Props must be safe, non-disruptive, and removed promptly post-performance.
• Avoid excessive glitter, confetti, or materials that create cleanup hazards or allergic risks.

4.3 After the Event: Follow-Through & Reflection

✅ Graceful Exit

• Vacate performance areas promptly; assist with venue cleanup if requested.
• Collect personal belongings; report lost items to event staff.
• Provide constructive feedback via official NDSSA channels only.

✅ Continuing Respect

• Do not disparage officials, competitors, or NDSSA on social media or public platforms.
• Respect confidentiality of unpublished results, adjudicator notes, or internal processes.

✅ Growth Mindset

• Use feedback for artistic development, not defensiveness.
• Mentor younger dancers; model positive conduct for the next generation.

5. PROHIBITED CONDUCT

NDSSA expressly prohibits Competitors from:

❌ Discrimination or Harassment: Verbal, physical, or digital conduct targeting prohibited grounds.
❌ Cheating or Fraud: Misrepresenting age, category, choreography authorship, or music licensing.
❌ Disruption: Intentionally delaying events, interfering with other performances, or ignoring official instructions.
❌ Aggression: Physical altercations, threats, intimidation, or verbal abuse toward any person.
❌ Unauthorised Recording: Filming, photographing, or streaming without consent.
❌ Substance Misuse: Competing under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or impairing medication.
❌ Costume/Prop Violations: Using hazardous, offensive, or rule-noncompliant attire or items.
❌ Retaliation: Punishing or threatening any person for reporting concerns or participating in investigations.
❌ Social Media Misconduct: Posting defamatory, discriminatory, or confidential content related to NDSSA events.

Note: Prohibited conduct may result in immediate removal, disqualification, suspension, and/or referral to external authorities.

6. MINORS (COMPETITORS UNDER 18 YEARS)

6.1 Parental/Guardian Responsibilities

If the Competitor is under 18, a parent or legal guardian must:

• Review this Code with the minor and ensure understanding
• Consent to participation by completing registration
• Provide accurate emergency contact and medical information
• Support the minor in adhering to this Code

6.2 Safeguarding Protections for Minors

All minors participating in NDSSA events are entitled to:

🔹 Safe Environments: Age-appropriate supervision; adherence to the "two-adult rule" in private spaces
🔹 Protection from Abuse: Zero tolerance for physical, emotional, or sexual exploitation
🔹 Privacy: Personal information and images handled per POPIA and parental consent
🔹 Voice: Safe, confidential channels to report concerns without fear of retaliation

6.3 Mandatory Reporting

Any Official or Competitor who suspects abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a minor must report immediately to:

• NDSSA Safeguarding Lead: [safeguarding@ndssa.org.za]
• South African Police Service (SAPS): 10111
• Childline South Africa: 116 (toll-free)
  
  Failure to report may constitute an offence under Section 110 of the Children's Act.

7. REPORTING CONCERNS & BREACHES

7.1 Duty to Report

All Competitors are encouraged to report:

• Observed breaches of this Code
• Discrimination, harassment, or bullying
• Safety hazards or safeguarding concerns
• Suspected cheating, fraud, or rule violations

7.2 Reporting Channels

Reports may be made confidentially via:

📧 Email: [conduct@ndssa.org.za]
📞 Hotline: [insert dedicated number]
🌐 Online Form: [insert secure, encrypted form]
🗣️ In Person: To any NDSSA Official, Event Director, or Safeguarding Lead

Anonymous reports are accepted, though this may limit investigation capacity.

7.3 Protection Against Retaliation

NDSSA prohibits victimisation of any person who reports concerns in good faith. Retaliation is itself a serious breach of this Code.

8. INVESTIGATION & DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURE

8.1 Initial Assessment

• Reports are acknowledged within 3 business days.
• The NDSSA Conduct Committee (or appointed independent investigator) assesses urgency, jurisdiction, and interim measures.

8.2 Interim Measures (If Required)

• Temporary suspension from competition or event access
• Separation of parties involved
• Preservation of evidence (video, messages, witness statements)
• Support for affected persons (counselling, advocacy)

8.3 Fair Process Principles

Both the complainant and respondent have the right to:

• Be informed of allegations in plain language
• Present evidence, witnesses, and context
• Be accompanied by a support person (parent/guardian for minors; non-legal adult for others)
• Receive written findings with reasons within a reasonable timeframe

8.4 Outcomes & Sanctions

If a breach is substantiated, sanctions may include:

Sanctions are proportionate, documented, and subject to appeal.

8.5 Appeal Process

• Either party may appeal the outcome within 14 calendar days to the NDSSA Board or independent appeals panel.
• Appeals are limited to procedural fairness, new evidence, or manifestly unreasonable outcomes.

8.6 External Recourse

Competitors retain the right to approach:

• South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC): For discrimination complaints (www.sahrc.org.za)
• Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA): For employment-related disputes (if applicable)
• Equality Court: In terms of PEPUDA, for civil remedies
• Information Regulator: For POPIA-related privacy concerns
• SAPS or Child Protection Units: For criminal or safeguarding matters

9. ACKNOWLEDGMENT BY PARTICIPATION

BY REGISTERING FOR, ATTENDING, OR PERFORMING IN ANY NDSSA EVENT, YOU CONFIRM THAT:

1. You have read, understood, and voluntarily accept this Code of Conduct;
2. You will compete with integrity, respect, and sportsmanship;
3. You will not engage in discrimination, harassment, cheating, or unsafe conduct;
4. You will report concerns promptly and in good faith;
5. If under 18, your parent/guardian has reviewed this Code and consents to your participation;
6. You understand that non-compliance may result in disciplinary action, disqualification, suspension, and/or legal consequences under South African law;
7. You consent to the processing of your personal information and performance imagery for event administration, promotion, and archival purposes in accordance with POPIA.

If you cannot commit to these standards, you must not register for or participate in NDSSA events.