Code of Conduct

This policy applies at all Wyld West LARP events and official online spaces.

All attendees are responsible and accountable for their own behaviour. Wyld West LARP provides a framework of rules and policies; attendees are expected to adhere to these.

General Expectations

• All attendees should treat each other with respect at all times.
• All attendees should feel able to challenge out-of-character behaviour that breaches any Wyld West LARP policy, when they feel safe and confident to do so.
• If challenged, attendees should reflect on their behaviour and offer an apology if appropriate.
• If an attendee feels unable to challenge another attendee’s behaviour, they may approach a member of staff for advice, support, or to raise a concern.
• All attendees MUST wear an ID card visibly at all times during events. These assist with identification and medical emergencies.
• All attendees must follow the rules of the game, including the Equality & Diversity, Safeguarding, and Accessibility policies, and comply with reasonable requests from staff.

Legal and Prohibited Items

• Illegal drugs are not permitted at Wyld West LARP events, including during event setup and takedown, in accordance with UK law.
• Real weapons (e.g. swords, knives), including decorative items, are not permitted. Breaches may result in removal from site or a ban.
• Tools (e.g. spades, hammers, cutlery) used for cooking, crafting, or similar purposes are permitted, but must:
  • Be carefully used and stored
  • Never be left unattended
  • Not be carried in pouches or belts to avoid confusion with latex weapons
• Firearms and explosive devices (including props or replicas) are not permitted for players. Breaches may result in removal or a ban.
• Players may not bring animals, including birds, to events. Some staff may be permitted to do so, provided animals are cared for and kept out of in-character (IC) areas. Please see the Accessibility Policy regarding assistance animals.

Special Effects and Safety

• Pyrotechnics and smoke effects are used during battles and skirmishes, outside of camp areas. These effects may include loud bangs and smoke.
• The special effects team will wear high-visibility waistcoats during these times.
• Smaller effects (e.g. incense, small explosions) may be used in camp areas. Only staff may use pyrotechnics; players are not permitted to handle them.
• If you are affected by these effects, please state this on your booking form under 'medical conditions'.

In Character (IC) and Out of Character (OOC) Behaviour

• IC events affect your character; OOC events affect you personally. Do not blur the lines between IC and OOC conflict.
  • Do not make OOC accusations or criticisms during IC scenes.
  • Do not let OOC arguments affect IC interactions.
• In IC areas during 'Time In', attendees must remain IC (exceptions: emergencies, under staff instruction, on way to/from monster slots, or engaged in essential OOC tasks).
  • Bathrooms, Event Hut, GOD, Referee Hut, and OOC camping are always considered OOC.
  • If unsure whether an area or time is IC or OOC, ask a staff member.

Costume and Appearance

• IC costume ('kit') must be worn in IC areas during 'Time In'.
• Kit should appear appropriate to the setting. Avoid:
  • Modern training shoes
  • Logos or modern prints
  • Mirrored sunglasses
  • Modern military items
• Do not criticise another attendee’s costume. Concerns should be reported to staff.
• Kit requirements do not override access needs. Items that support comfort or mobility (e.g. suitable footwear, coloured lenses) are encouraged. See Equality, Diversity and Accessibility.

Communication, Complaints and Concerns

• Attendees are encouraged to approach any staff member with concerns. See the Feedback, Complaints and Concerns policy.
• If you would prefer to speak with someone of a particular identity, we will do our best to accommodate this.
• Report any concerns or complaints as early as possible.

Language and Swearing

• Swearing and profanity are permitted unless it breaches other policies (e.g. Safeguarding, Equality & Diversity).
• Slurs and hate speech (e.g. sexist, racist, ableist terms) are never permitted.
• Attendees may challenge inappropriate language or seek assistance from staff.

Combat and Dangerous Play

• Dangerous play is not permitted. All combat should prioritise safety.
• Specific rules:

1. Only thrust with stab-safe weapons.
2. Head hits are permitted but require extreme caution. Never thrust at the head.
3. Combat is not allowed under the influence of alcohol.
4. Always pull your blows. This means stopping a weapon swing just before impact to create a light tap. Contact a referee for training if needed.
5. Two types of firearms are permitted:

• • Cap-enabled wood and metal firearms
  • Cap-enabled LARP-safe foam and latex firearms
• Guns must be used with care. Do not physically strike others with firearms.

Breaches and Consequences

Breaking this Code of Conduct, game rules, or any Wyld West LARP policy may result in:

• Being asked to leave the site
• A temporary or permanent ban from events

All policies are living documents and may be updated. Last reviewed: 06/08/2025.