• Although we found issues of ‘disagreement’ or differences of opinion in the papers, we did not think the ways in which these disagreements were expressed by Janet, albeit robustly at times, amounted to ‘unbrotherly’ behaviour.

Having considered the paperwork, the panel recognised that both parties have felt aggrieved and that, had a robust Code of Conduct and an authoritative Grievance/Complaints procedure been in place, this matter could have been dealt with in a timely and appropriate manner.
Recommendations

1. Appropriate governance procedures related to grievances and complaints and disciplinary actions, be expeditiously introduced, together with a clearly defined Code of Conduct reflecting the principles, ethics and core values that The Theosophical Society promotes and upholds.

2. That there is training for EC and Officers in governance requirements and associated legal liabilities.

3. Complaints should always be dealt with promptly and in writing.

4. Where working relationships create difficulties, the Society may find that the introduction of mediation to help people improve inter-personal skills and mutual understanding (as distinct from arbitration), provided by an independent commercial specialist may help avoid the necessity for expensive solicitor supervised processes.

Summary

We do not think that there is anything positive to be gained in finding fault or apportioning blame in this matter, rather, we feel, it would be in the best interests of the Society to act upon these complaints in a more positive way by the introduction of an appropriate Code of Conduct and a robust and unambiguous Complaints/Grievance Procedure as expeditiously as possible.”