Code of Conduct
New Year’s Swing Fling is a private, ticketed event. All attendees must wear their event wristbands at all times while inside the venue ("Radisson Red Heathrow & Conference Centre"). Security Officers and our door monitors may ask to see your wristband if it is not clearly visible.
We want everyone attending New Years Swing Fling 2025 to have a safe and enjoyable experience. To ensure a positive environment for all attendees, we ask you to adhere to this code of conduct.
Key contacts:
Steve Hunt (Event Director)
Lynsey Foster (Designated Event Representative and First Aider). Lynsey is available to support event staff, competitors, and attendees with any concerns that may arise.
Respect and Inclusivity
Treat all attendees, organisers, and staff with respect and courtesy, regardless of their gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, ability, or any other characteristic.
Embrace the diversity of our dance community, fostering an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.
Personal Boundaries
Always respect personal boundaries.
Be mindful of your partner’s comfort level and do not initiate dips, lifts, or close contact without clear consent. If your partner asks you to stop any movement or behaviour, do so immediately. Should your partner raise a concern about inappropriate touch, listen respectfully without debate. Apologise if appropriate, and notify the key contacts named above if needed.
If you experience any unwanted or inappropriate contact, please do not hesitate to speak with the key contacts in the first instance or a member of our staff. Your comfort and safety are important to us.
Responsible Behaviour
Do not engage in any form of harassment, discrimination, or offensive behaviour. This includes, but is not limited to, verbal, physical, or sexual harassment, hate speech, or any actions that cause distress or harm to others.
Do not use derogatory or offensive remarks or gestures.
It is your personal responsibility to exercise within your limits.
Keep yourself safe. If you or anyone near you falls or is injured, please contact a member of our event staff right away. In an emergency contact 999.
Safeguarding Children & Young People
We are committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of children and young people at all times during the event.
All attendees under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a designated chaperone at all times while on the premises.
If a child or young person has specific needs or requirements, please inform the Event Organisers via email at nyswingfling@gmail.com before arrival.
Unauthorised photography or video recording of minors is strictly prohibited.
Alcohol and Substance Use
The venue does not permit attendees to bring and consume alcohol not purchased on-site in public areas (including the ballroom).
Be mindful of alcohol consumption and drink responsibly.
Refrain from using illegal substances or bringing them to the event.
Personal Belongings
Take responsibility for your personal belongings. Do not leave valuable items unattended. Neither the organisers or the venue are liable for any lost or stolen property.
SAFETY & Reporting Incidents
Your safety and comfort are paramount to us. If at any point you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, on or off the dance floor, or if you witness someone being harassed during New Year’s Swing Fling, please contact the Event Organisers. If you cannot reach them, please get in touch with our Designated Event Representative, Lynsey, or any of our event staff at the registration desk (during opening hours) or at the DJ Booth when the registration desk is closed.
If you have concerns before the event, you’re welcome to email us at nyswingfling@gmail.com and we’ll arrange a time to speak with you.
Consequences of Violations
Violation of this code of conduct may result in a warning, temporary or permanent removal from the event. The organisers reserve the right to take appropriate action as deemed necessary.
event photogrpahy & videography
Photography and videography will be conducted throughout the event by our official event team. Attendees are also welcome to take their own photos and videos for personal use.
We will be sharing event highlights and updates via our @nyswingfling Instagram and Facebook Stories throughout the weekend.
If you prefer not to be tagged in any official event photos or videos, please let us know by emailing nyswingfling@gmail.com
Dance Etiquette
Practice good personal hygiene and you are likely to be a more popular dancer. Shower before the event, wear deodorant, and freshen up your breath. If you sweat a lot, bring an extra shirt. Wash your hands thoroughly after using the bathroom and use the hand sanitiser available.
West Coast Swing is a casual dance and wear clothing that you are comfortable in. We tend to wear shoes with a suede sole, or trainers where you put stickers on the sole to help you spin. Avoid rubber soled shoes or shoes that stick to floor.
West Coast Swing is danced in a slot: run the slot in the same direction as everyone else and avoid bumping into others taking care of your partner especially when the dancefloor is busy.
Asking someone to dance is an invitation, and it is okay to decline an invitation. West Coast Swing does not assume the role based on gender so ask your partner if they wish to lead or follow.
Don’t give unsolicited feedback to your partner during class or social dancing, even if it comes from a good intention, unless someone’s safety is at stake. Everyone learns at a different pace and there are various levels of dancers that attend our events.
Be inclusive and friendly: Don’t be afraid to invite others to dance with you – everyone is there to dance! Maybe strike up a conversation with someone off the dance floor? Trying to connect with others can make dancing more fun and foster a community where everyone feels included.
Stay hydrated: Dancing can be physically demanding, so drink plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the event. This will help you maintain your energy levels and avoid dehydration.