Terms & Conditions

Membership of the Greeting Card Association (“The GCA”) is subject to these terms and conditions. We have endeavored to write these Terms in plain English. The GCA reserves the right to update these terms and conditions from time to time. Existing members will be given at least 30 days notice for any updates.

1. Subscription

Membership of the GCA is subject to an ongoing subscription. New Members enter their payment details upon registration. The GCA will use these details to renew your membership each year on the anniversary of your initial registration. Members can amend their payment details from within the My Account section of the website. By becoming a member you agree to allow the GCA to use your details in order to renew your membership, including card and bank details held securely by our payment processing partners (Stripe and GoCardless).

Members will be notified at least 7 days before their next payment is taken.

In the event a renewal payment fails to process, members will be notified by email. A re-attempt to take the payment will occur within 24 hours of the failed payment.

2. Cancellation

Members can cancel their Membership from the My Account portal of the website. If you cancel within 7 days of a registration or renewal you can either allow the membership to lapse at the end of it’s term or request immediate cancellation and a refund by emailing admin@gca.cards. Refunds will not be available for cancellation requests received after 7 days of registration or renewal.

3. Content

All content on the GCA website is either copyright of the GCA or published with consent of the copyright holder.

Members can use the content available on the GCA website for the benefit of their own businesses. However the content cannot be republished without prior consent of the GCA. Where content is used with permission, please credit the GCA.

The GCA makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the content on the website. However the GCA does not accept any liability for any errors, omissions or inaccuracies. The GCA takes no responsibility for actions taken by Members based on the content on the website.

The GCA reserves the right to use any content submitted by members on the website without express permission of the member.

Any information entered in your member’s profile will be visible publicly.

4. Representation

By becoming a member of the GCA, you agree to allow the GCA to represent the collective membership, for example when lobbying parliament.

Views expressed by individual Members cannot be construed as views of the GCA.

5. Code of Conduct

5.1 Purpose

The Greeting Card Association (GCA) is committed to fostering an inclusive, safe, and welcoming environment at all our events, whether in-person or virtual. In alignment with our Diversity and Inclusion Statement, we expect all participants to conduct themselves professionally and respectfully, ensuring that everyone feels valued, safe, and empowered to participate.

This Code of Conduct outlines the expected standards of behaviour for all attendees and the procedures in place should these standards not be met.

5.2 Scope

This Code applies to all participants at GCA events, including but not limited to:

  • Attendees
  • Speakers
  • Volunteers
  • Hosts
  • Sponsors and exhibitors
  • Event staff
  • Media representatives
  • Online participants

It covers official sessions, networking spaces, exhibition areas, online chatrooms, and all associated social activities.

5.3 Expected Behaviour

All participants are expected to:

  • Treat others with respect, courtesy, and professionalism at all times.
  • Contribute to a positive and inclusive environment for people of all backgrounds, identities, and beliefs.
  • Listen with openness and engage constructively in dialogue.
  • Abide by the rules of the venue or digital platform.
  • Report any behaviour that compromises the safety or integrity of the event.

5.4 Unacceptable Behaviour

The following conduct will not be tolerated:

  • Harassment, intimidation, bullying, or discrimination of any kind.
  • Inappropriate, offensive, or sexually explicit language, images, or behaviour.
  • Unwelcome physical contact or personal attention.
  • Disruption of talks, presentations, or online discussions.
  • Possession or use of illegal substances or weapons at in-person events.
  • Impersonation or misrepresentation in virtual environments.
  • Using online chats or Q&A sessions to share spam, unsolicited promotions, or abusive comments.

Harassment may include (but is not limited to):

  • Offensive jokes or slurs
  • Derogatory remarks
  • Unwanted photography or recordings
  • Invasion of personal space
  • Verbal or physical threats

5.5 Reporting and Consequences

If you witness or experience unacceptable behaviour, please contact the event organiser or a member of staff immediately. You may also email: hello@gca.cards

All reports will be handled with discretion and sensitivity. Actions may include:

  • Verbal or written warnings
  • Removal from the event (without refund, where applicable)
  • Reporting to venue security or appropriate authorities
  • Restrictions from attending future GCA events

False reporting of misconduct will also be treated as a violation of this code.

5.6 Online Event Etiquette

Participants in virtual events must:

  • Use appropriate, respectful language in all chats and interactions.
  • Avoid sharing commercial links or promotions without prior approval.
  • Refrain from impersonating others or disrupting sessions.
  • Not use chat or Q&A tools for off-topic discussions.

Inappropriate behaviour online may result in private warnings, removal of chat privileges, or expulsion from the event.

5.7 Photography, Filming and Consent

GCA events may include photography and video recording. Where individual consent is required, this will be clearly indicated on registration forms or at event.
If you prefer not to be included in photos or recordings, please inform the organisers in advance or on the day.

5.8 Commitment to Inclusion

All participants are reminded of the GCA’s unwavering commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We will not tolerate discriminatory or marginalising behaviour based on race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, ability, religion, nationality, or any other protected characteristic.

5.9 Accountability

By attending a GCA event, you agree to abide by this Code of Conduct. Let’s work together to ensure our events are welcoming, inspiring, and respectful for everyone.