Purpose
The Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame exists to celebrate and honour individuals who have made exceptional contributions to Scottish traditional music and culture. Induction into the Hall of Fame represents the highest recognition of achievement and service within Scotland’s traditional music community and is a great privilege bestowed upon recipients.
To maintain the integrity, reputation, and values of the Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame, Hands Up for Trad reserves the right to remove inductees whose conduct brings the Hall of Fame into disrepute. Criminal convictions or serious misconduct result in the forfeiture of this privilege, as the honour of induction requires maintaining standards befitting the distinction. Such conduct risks the reputation of the Hall of Fame and potentially affects the other inductees through reputational damage.
Grounds for Removal
An inductee may be removed from the Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame if they are:
- Convicted of a serious criminal offence including, but not limited to:
- Violent crimes
- Sexual offences
- Financial crimes involving significant fraud or theft
- Any crime that results in imprisonment
- Found guilty of serious professional misconduct that:
- Violates the trust placed in them by the traditional music community
- Brings the Hall of Fame into disrepute
- Contradicts the values and spirit of Scottish traditional music
- Engaged in behaviour that:
- Seriously damages the reputation of the Hall of Fame
- Is fundamentally incompatible with the honour of induction
- Undermines the achievements and standing of other inductees
Removal Process
- Initial Assessment: Upon becoming aware of potential grounds for removal, Hands Up for Trad will conduct an initial assessment to determine whether formal proceedings should commence.
- Review Panel: A review panel comprising members of the Hands Up for Trad board and external advisors will be convened to consider the case.
- Evidence Review: The panel will review all relevant evidence, including:
- Court judgements and legal proceedings
- Professional body findings
- Verified reports and documentation
- Any representations made by or on behalf of the inductee
- Decision: The panel will make a recommendation to the Hands Up for Trad board, who will make the final decision on removal.
- Implementation: If removal is approved:
- The inductee’s name and biography will be removed from the Hall of Fame website
- Their physical recognition will be withdrawn
Considerations
- Timing: This policy applies to conduct occurring both before and after induction
- Appeals: Removed inductees may request reconsideration if circumstances significantly change (such as successful legal appeals)
- Confidentiality: All proceedings will be conducted with appropriate confidentiality while ensuring transparency in the final decision
- Legal Advice: Hands Up for Trad will seek appropriate legal counsel before implementing any removal
Application
This policy applies to all current and future inductees across all categories of the Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame.
Review
This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to ensure it remains appropriate and effective.
Approved by: Hands Up for Trad Board
Effective Date: 02/07/2025
Document Version: 1.0
The Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame is a project of Hands Up for Trad, Scottish Charity Number SC034205