The Blackstage Policy
We are an organisation run by BIPOC who are Queer/Trans, s*x workers, disabled, and from low-income backgrounds. We aim to protect and centre these communities in all our actions and events. While our work is open for all to enjoy and collaborate on, we have ground rules to strengthen the safety of our team, collaborators, and performers.
Zero-Tolerance Policy
Blackstage has a zero-tolerance policy for racism, transphobia, whorephobia, misogyny, ableism, classism, homophobia, biphobia, fatphobia, z*onism, ageism, sexual harassment or assault, or any other dangerous and discriminatory behaviour. We expect all participants to observe gender-neutral language when referring to our team and performers. If you are unsure of someone's pronouns, please ask. If you accidentally misgender someone, apologise and move on. Additionally, never touch anyone without consent.
Reporting Harm
If you wish to report harm experienced at one of our events, please let the nearest member of the Blackstage or venue team know. The Blackstage team will often be dressed in Black Blackstage tracksuits and wearing an earpiece, or just wearing an earpiece. If you cannot find any of our team, please do let the venue staff, bar staff or security team know so that they can radio support for you.
Responding to Allegations of Harm
We take allegations of harm seriously. Our approach prioritises the safety and well-being of our community while recognising that we are not a legal authority or investigative body.
Each case will be assessed individually, taking advice from nightlife welfare and safety initiatives.
We often work alongside Safe Only CIC, an organisation dedicated to safety in nightlife spaces, as well as trained security teams.
Key members of our team have participated in Good Night Out training, a campaign dedicated to nightlife safety and preventing harassment in nightlife.
We reserve the right to remove anyone from our space whom we determine to be a risk to the community.
Online hate speech, harassment, or other harmful behaviours may result in a performer, team member, sponsor or collaborator being removed from our upcoming shows or workshops.
Allegations of harm or abuse involving any upcoming performers, sponsors, collaborators or team members that occur outside of Blackstage fall beyond our direct remit, as we can only take action on incidents within our own events. However, if deemed necessary, we will gather relevant information and conduct a risk assessment in consultation with professional third parties. Based on this assessment, we will determine whether we feel the individual or organisation has violated our policies and whether their presence poses a risk to our community.
We provide welfare support at our events, including a quiet space, trained personnel who can be approached, and the venue’s safety mechanisms.
While we take measures to create a safe(r) space, we acknowledge that we are not the criminal justice system and do not have the capacity to investigate interpersonal conflicts beyond the remit of our events.
Hiring Policy
At Blackstage Pole LTD we exist to uplift and celebrate BIPOC pole dancers in an industry where exclusion and discrimination have long been barriers to success. As part of our mission to create space for underrepresented talent, we prioritise hiring BIPOC dancers to perform, teach, and represent our community. This approach is in line with the Equality Act 2010, which allows positive action to address systemic disadvantage.
For all other roles (e.g., admin, event staff, management), we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, as we believe a diverse team strengthens our community.
Music and Content Standards
Our performer onboarding form highlights the importance of selecting music that aligns with our core values and does not trigger or harm members of our communities. In addition:
The music played at our shows before, between and after performances is exclusively by artists of colour, with a strong emphasis on femmes of colour.
We do not allow music from artists known for harm, including (but not limited to) P.Dddy, Chrs Brwn, Try Lnz, and R Klly.
Accessibility and Inclusivity
We are committed to making our events as accessible as possible. In addition to the accessibility features provided by our venue, Clapham Grand, we aim to employ a BSL interpreter of colour. Our accessibility provisions include:
Wheelchair Access: Ramped access is available via a side entrance on Severus Road. The ramp is 37 inches wide and 60 inches in length, with a 750kg Safe Working Load. Please contact us if you have any concerns regarding weight or width to ensure comfortable entry.
Accessible Facilities: An accessible bathroom is located on the ground floor within the Gender Neutral toilet block. The doorway is 30 inches wide, and the cubicle door is 31.5 inches wide with an inward opening. If you have a larger chair or any questions about accessing these facilities, please contact us directly for assistance.
Seating Arrangements: For seated shows, reserved seating is possible, usually in the 2nd or 3rd row of the stalls. Ushers are available to assist with navigation to and from seats, bars, and bathrooms. However, we recommend bringing a carer or friend for additional support.
Visual and Hearing Impairments: Reserved seating near the front of the stalls is available for lip-readers and those who prefer proximity to the BSL interpreter. The BSL interpreter will provide 5-minute warnings before show starts and intervals to allow ample time for using facilities or getting refreshments.
Neurodiversity Considerations: We offer quiet rooms, ventilated spaces, and the ability to skip queues upon request. Please reach out to us to discuss any specific requirements to ensure you have the best experience with us.
Additional Facilities:
A medical room on-site.
Designated breastfeeding and quiet spaces.
The ability to notify audience members ahead of any strobing effects via text.
We are continually seeking feedback to improve accessibility and inclusivity at our events. If you have any specific needs or suggestions, please contact us at info@blackstagepole.com no less than 72 hours before an event with the subject ‘accessibility’ so we can accommodate you effectively.
Blackstage exists to create a safe(r), more inclusive, and affirming environment for our community. We welcome collaboration and accountability in upholding these values.
Our Safeguarding Policy can be found here