Hidden Beach – Code of Conduct
Hidden Beach is a month-long celebration of music, food, culture, workshops and community taking place across Hastings. To make sure everyone feels safe, welcome and respected at every event, we ask all attendees, artists, traders, staff and volunteers to follow this Code of Conduct. This applies across all Hidden Beach locations, including The Oval, Horntye Park, Bottle Alley, Alexandra Park, Kitchen.HiddenBeach, indoor partner venues and outdoor public spaces.
Our Principles
Respect
Treat everyone with dignity, kindness and consideration.
Inclusion
We welcome people of all backgrounds, identities and abilities.
Safety
Look after yourself and others. Ask for help if you need it.
Community
We celebrate together. We support together. We grow together.
What We Expect from Everyone
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Respect Others
Please treat fellow attendees, staff, artists and volunteers with respect at all times. We do not tolerate harassment, discrimination, aggressive or threatening behaviour, violence, hate speech, abusive language, sexual harassment, unwanted physical contact, bullying, intimidation or behaviour that puts others at risk. If someone tells you “stop,” you stop immediately. -
Consent Always
Hidden Beach operates a clear consent-first policy. This includes physical contact, photography, filming, dancing close to someone, or entering personal space. Always ask. Never assume. -
Drugs & Alcohol
Hidden Beach follows UK law. No illegal drugs. No bringing alcohol into licensed venues. Intoxicated individuals may be refused entry or asked to leave for safety. Drink responsibly and look after your friends. -
Photography & Filming
Some areas are photography-friendly, others are not. Always respect personal privacy. Do not photograph children without parental consent. Workshops and wellness sessions may have restricted filming. Media and content creators must follow accreditation rules. If someone asks you not to photograph them, respect their wishes. -
Protect the Spaces
We use community halls, parks, the seafront, independent venues and cultural spaces across Hastings. Help us care for them. Use bins and recycling. Keep beaches, parks and shared spaces clean. Respect venue staff and their rules. Do not vandalise or damage equipment, especially sound system gear. -
Accessibility
We aim to make Hidden Beach as accessible as possible. Ask staff if you need assistance. Let us know if you see an accessibility barrier we can help with. Priority seating and support are available at many events. We are committed to improving accessibility every year. -
Families & Young People
Some events are 18+, some are family-friendly. Children must be supervised by adults. Follow signage and staff directions. Respect quieter zones and family areas at larger events. -
Look After Each Other
Hidden Beach is a community. If someone looks unwell, lost, uncomfortable or distressed, please let a staff member, steward or volunteer know. You can speak to festival staff, security, volunteers, wellness partners or workshop facilitators. We are here to help.
If Something Happens
If you experience or witness behaviour that breaks this Code, report it immediately. Speak to any staff member, security, volunteer or the information desk at main events, or email safety@hiddenbea.ch. All reports are taken seriously.
Consequences
Hidden Beach reserves the right to issue warnings, remove individuals from events, refuse entry to future events or involve the police where necessary. This applies to attendees, staff, artists, traders and volunteers.
Our Commitment
We are working with local partners, community groups, wellbeing practitioners and venue managers to ensure Hidden Beach remains a safe, welcoming, positive cultural space for everyone. Thank you for being part of the Hidden Beach community and helping us create a month of music, creativity, food and connection in Hastings.