VASSA outings and excursions usually take us onto exclusive properties, and frequently into private homes – which is a privilege deserving our respect and courtesy, and our host’s privacy being safguarded.
So, it is incumbent on members to abide by VASSA’s rules, particularly when in groups.
GENERAL
Only paid up members may attend outings / excursions. Should visitors attend by prior arrangement, they need to pay the full annual membership fee for the one event. Strictly no pets ever, or children without prior arrangement.
Wear your VASSA name badge with correct colour tag. It’s a courtesy to fellow members as well as a safety measure to hosts who generously allow us into their homes.
Switch off cell phones during events.
ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE
On arrival, sign the register. Then stay close to the leader so that the host can be introduced. Do not wander off before the introduction.
On departure, gather around the leader to thank the host. Do not leave before this. But if you have to, inform the outing leader in advance.
ON THE PROPERTY
Do not touch anything / pick up porcelain to check maker’s mark / take books out of bookcases, etc.
Do not open closed doors / sit on the furniture unless invited.
Do not use the toilet without asking the host’s permission.
Do not take plant slips from the garden.
Do not voice comments about the venue to other members, positive or negative.
Positive comments may, however, be voiced to the owner, discretely.
Do not engage the host in private conversations while others are milling around.
Do not use the privilege of any event to organise private business arrangements or return visits with the host.
PHOTOGRAPH PROTOCOL
We need to safeguard the privacy of our hosts in this digital age.
Before taking interior photographs, check with the outing leader that this is permitted.
Although we may sometimes be allowed to take interior photos if we have permission from the property owner / occupant, we should use them only for personal or research purposes.
So do not post photographs of any interior on social media – this is deemed a security risk.
And never post images of a location / farm online with either GPS co-ordinates or the name and location / address attached, nor as a caption or other “tag” such as the “check in” option on Facebook.
Some already “public” exterior shots, such as the gateposts or gables, may be used to illustrate posts to social media or to the VASSA Facebook page.
LIMITING NUMBERS
VASSA outings are usually open to all members. However, certain outings may be limited. If so, a first-come-first-served basis will apply.
To be alerted to outings, follow the Events page – Current Events.