This policy sets out the expectations for all members of the Merseyside Quiz Leagues (MQL) to ensure respectful and considerate interactions with fellow members and venue patrons and staff. It also provides guidance on setting quiz questions that align with our commitment to inclusivity and respect, ensuring that no one is caused offence, particularly in relation to protected characteristics. While many of the requirements herein are also addressed in the MQL Rules and in the Guidance to the Writers of Question Sets, this Policy aims to bring focus to the League’s aims for the highest standards in terms of sensitivity and respectfulness.
Reference to any relevant legislation that appears in the future will be added here.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all members of MQL including officials, players, team captains, question setters, and any guests attending events and extends to interactions with staff and other patrons at venues where our events take place. While MQL cannot take responsibility for the conduct of persons involved at MQL events, there is a definite expectation that those involved behave in an appropriate manner.
3. Respect for Protected Characteristics
Members must treat others with respect, ensuring that their behaviour and quiz content do not discriminate against or cause offence based on:
• Age
• Disability
• Gender
• Pregnancy or maternity
• Race (including ethnic origin and nationality)
• Colour
• Creed
• Social Status
• Sexual orientation
4. Expected Standards of Behaviour
All members should:
• Be mindful of language, gestures, and behaviours that may be offensive, discriminatory or cause embarrassment.
• Show consideration for cultural, religious, and personal sensitivities.
• Avoid jokes, comments, or actions that may be perceived as offensive, even if unintended.
• Follow any specific inclusion or diversity guidelines set by the league or venue.
• Respect venue policies regarding dress codes, conduct, and accessibility requirements.
• Treat venue staff with courtesy and respect.
5. Guidance for Quiz Question Writing
Question writers play a key role in ensuring our quiz league remains respectful and inclusive. All quiz questions should follow the guidance set out in the Guidance to Writers of Question Sets and in particular:
• Avoid stereotypes, slurs, or derogatory references related to any protected characteristic.
• Be sensitive to topics that could be upsetting or offensive, such as historical injustices, violence, or discrimination.
• Represent a diverse range of knowledge and perspectives, avoiding bias in subject matter.
• Be reviewed with an awareness of how they might be perceived by different audiences.
• Prior to submission to their League Secretary, be checked by team captains to ensure compliance with this policy.
If a question is found to be inappropriate, it may be withdrawn or reworded at the discretion of the league organisers.
6. Addressing Concerns and Complaints
If when playing an officially sanctioned MQL quiz, if any team or individual considers a question to have the potential to cause offence, then they should notify, preferably by e-mail, at the earliest opportunity their League Secretary. The League Secretary, will then consider the matter and if in agreement, will forward it to the MQL General Secretary, for onward notification to the relevant League Secretary. The MQL General Secretary will maintain a list of such questions for general circulation to all League Secretaries for information and advice.
If a member feels that they have been subjected to or witnessed inappropriate behaviour or offensive quiz content, they should:
• Where appropriate, address the issue constructively with the individual involved.
• Report concerns to the league committee or designated representative.
• Respect the confidentiality of all parties involved in any complaint process.
7. Consequences of Policy Breaches
MQL has the right to apply appropriate sanction to any team or individual who fail to adhere to this policy which may include
• A verbal or written warning.
• Removal or rewording of offensive quiz content.
• Substitution of the set
• Temporary or permanent suspension from the league.
8. Commitment to Ongoing Awareness
MQL will periodically review this policy and provide guidance or training to members on respectful and inclusive conduct, particularly in relation to quiz content. MQL are a not-for-profit organisation run by willing volunteers to provide a leisure activity. We strive for best efforts but rely upon our members to uphold these standards to the best of their ability.
By participating in MQL, all members agree to uphold these principles to ensure a respectful and welcoming environment for all.