Welcome to the East London Dog Community!

Notes and Guidance for Group Members

Our Mission

To oppose the proposed Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), which is overly restrictive and will negatively impact both dogs and their owners.

To agree an alternative resolution in which we and our dogs can peacefully coexist with all our neighbours, without the dogs’ rights to behave in a natural way being compromised.

Code of Engagement

If you wish to join us, you must agree to abide by our code of engagement, which is designed to create an inclusive environment in which all members feel safe.

1. Debate is welcome, but must be approached with respect and politeness.

2. Communications must not contain abuse, intimidation or threats of any kind.

3. Communications must not contain any form of discrimination, including racism, sexism, ageism, ableism, homophobia, transphobia, and religious intolerance.

4. Posts should not spread false or unverified information.

Admins reserve the right to delete posts, block users and take other action as necessary if these rules are not adhered to.

Healthy Debate Principles

• Focus on ideas, not people – avoid personal criticisms or trying to prove others ‘wrong’.

• Active listening – focus on understanding other people’s perspective and finding common ground and solutions.

• Facts over assumptions – present reasonable requests, with evidence to support them.

• Don’t get sidetracked – avoid speculation on wider political motivations of others.

• Be the change – model good behaviour, and communicate in a way which unifies rather than alienates

Disclaimers

Drivers behind the PSPO proposal

• Some residents believe the PSPO proposal is driven by a lack of understanding (of dogs), originating from members of the community who hold specific views about dogs.

• It is worth remembering that we cannot know the true origins of this proposal.

• We do not believe there is merit in extensive speculation about possible drivers behind the PSPO - except where acknowledgement of possible drivers can aid in finding alternative solutions which support the needs of all members of our local community.

• For the best chance at success, we must remain calm and stick to the facts.

Cross-cultural differences

• We acknowledge there can be cross-cultural challenges re. dogs existing in public spaces.

• We are considering public education as part of the proposed solution, to address fear & misunderstanding, and to promote responsible dog-ownership.

• We are also concerned that the passing of the PSPO would create division between communities, and this is something we want to avoid at all costs.

Party politics

• This group and its actions are not affiliated with any political party. • We do not seek to promote party-political agendas of any kind