Ground rules are particularly important when training content is controversial or embarrassing. Common topics included are: confidentiality issues to do with confronting unacceptable behaviour especially racist, sexist and homophobic behaviour the right to not participate people speak for themselves and not for the whole group (use of 'I' statements) punctuality the right to ask questions frequency of breaks ways of meeting individual needs
Sometimes discussion about ground rules can become very heated, especially if people realise that some things they may normally say are sexist or racist. A heated discussion at the beginning of an event allows participants who may be in some way be vulnerable to gauge levels of safety in the room before making a disclosure about say, sexuality or HIV status. This can be important in helping people avoid unnecessary risk. Also, trouble early on in the event around issues that are not important can avoid trouble over important content later. Finally, once the list has been negotiated we display it on the wall to ensure that it can be referred to if needed. | 
