General Dispute/Complaint Reporting & Resolution Policy
At Skate Wheatley, we are committed to a safe, respectful, inclusive, and fair environment for everyone. This policy explains how to report, address, and resolve general disputes and complaints within our club, following the standards of Skate Ontario and Skate Canada.
Who does this apply to?
All Skate Wheatley:
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Skaters and parents/guardians
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Coaches and officials
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Volunteers, board, and committee members
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Anyone participating in programs, events, meetings, or representing the club
This policy applies to club-related activities and conduct outside club events if it affects Skate Wheatley’s reputation, safety, or operations.
What is a general dispute / complaint?
Examples include:
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Conflicts between skaters, coaches, volunteers, or parents
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Concerns about club policies, decisions, or procedures
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Breaches of Skate Wheatley, Skate Ontario, or Skate Canada rules or codes
Serious misconduct (e.g., abuse, harassment, or discrimination) must be reported directly to Skate Canada Safe Sport (see contacts at the end).
Guiding Principles
Skate Wheatley commits to:
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Fairness, impartiality, and thorough investigation
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Timely resolution of disputes and complaints
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Confidentiality and respect for all parties
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Protection against retaliation for those reporting concerns in good faith
Your responsibilities:
All members and participants must:
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Follow Skate Wheatley, Skate Ontario, and Skate Canada policies and codes
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Treat everyone with respect and fairness
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Report concerns promptly and truthfully
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Support a safe, positive, and inclusive environment
Courtesy & Respect Reminder:
Club volunteers and staff will not tolerate threatening, abusive, or unreasonable behavior. Communication may be ceased immediately in such cases, and authorities contacted if necessary.
Reporting a Dispute or Complaint:
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Try to resolve the issue directly and informally (e.g., speak respectfully with the other person or your coach).
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If unresolved, submit your concern in writing to the Skate Wheatley Board at skatewheatley@gmail.com
Your complaint should include:
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What happened (details, dates, location)
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Who was involved
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Any witnesses or evidence (emails, screenshots, etc.)
Never use personal texts, private emails, or social media to complain about club matters.
Arena facility complaints: For issues related to arena facilities or municipal services, contact the Municipality of Chatham-Kent directly at ckrecfacilities@chatham-kent.ca or 519-682-1022.
Process & Outcomes:
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The Board will acknowledge your complaint, explain next steps, and may:
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Arrange early resolution facilitation (informal mediation)
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Conduct an internal review or investigation
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All complaints will be handled confidentially and fairly
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You will be informed of the outcome and any actions taken
Possible Outcomes:
Depending on the issue, the Board may:
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Give a verbal or written warning
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Set conditions or restrictions
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Suspend membership temporarily
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Expel the individual from the club
If the individual is a minor, consequences may also apply to their parent/guardian as part of membership.
Suspension & Expulsion - may be considered when:
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Safety or wellbeing of others is at risk
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There are serious breaches of conduct
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There are repeated violations after warnings
Decisions are made by the Board, and the individual will be notified in writing with reasons.
Appeals:
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Anyone suspended or expelled may appeal in writing to the Board within a set timeframe. The Board’s final decision after appeal is binding.
Retaliation & Confidentiality:
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Retaliation against anyone who reports a concern in good faith is strictly prohibited and may lead to disciplinary action
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All complaints and related information must remain confidential, except where disclosure is required by law
Contact Information for Reporting:
Skate Wheatley Board: skatewheatley@gmail.com
Membership in Skate Wheatley is a privilege, not a right. All members agree to follow this policy as a condition of participation.
