Disciplinary Procedure

1. Grounds for Disciplinary Action

Disciplinary action may be taken against any member who:

• Breaches the Society's Articles of Association or Rules
• Acts in a manner prejudicial to the interests of the Society or the Highland Pony breed
• Provides false or misleading information to the Society
• Breaches the Society's Code of Conduct
• Is convicted of an offence relating to animal welfare

2. Making a Complaint

Any complaint must be submitted in writing to the Society Secretary. The complaint should include:

• Full details of the alleged breach or misconduct
• Dates and circumstances of the incident(s)
• Names of any witnesses
• Any supporting evidence or documentation

3. Investigation

Upon receipt of a complaint, the Society will:

• Acknowledge receipt of the complaint within 14 days
• Appoint a Disciplinary Committee to investigate the matter
• Notify the member against whom the complaint has been made, providing them with full details
• Allow the member a minimum of 28 days to respond in writing
• Gather all relevant evidence and witness statements

4. Disciplinary Hearing

If the Disciplinary Committee considers there is a case to answer:

• A formal hearing will be convened with at least 21 days' notice
• The member is entitled to attend and present their case
• The member may be accompanied by a representative
• Both parties may call witnesses
• The Committee will reach a decision based on the balance of probabilities

5. Sanctions

If the complaint is upheld, the Disciplinary Committee may impose one or more of the following sanctions:

• A formal warning
• Suspension of membership for a specified period
• Expulsion from the Society
• Withdrawal of registration or showing privileges
• A fine
• Any other action deemed appropriate by the Committee

6. Right of Appeal

Any member subject to disciplinary action has the right to appeal the decision within 28 days of notification. Appeals must be submitted in writing to the Society Secretary and will be heard by an Appeals Panel comprising Council members who were not involved in the original decision. The decision of the Appeals Panel is final.