Conflict Resolution Policy

This policy applies to: LTP Verified organizations Applicants Accredited members Accreditation Council members Site reviewers Executive Leadership Volunteers acting on behalf of the Verified Program This policy does not replace any legal remedies available under applicable law. 3. Guiding Principles All conflicts shall be addressed with the following principles: Fairness Professionalism Respect Confidentiality Objectivity Timeliness Accountability LTP Verified will not tolerate retaliation against any individual who raises a concern in good faith. 4. Types of Conflicts Examples include, but are not limited to: Disputes regarding verification decisions Misunderstandings during the application process Concerns involving Accreditation Council members Alleged policy violations Misuse of the LTP Verified designation Professional conduct concerns Communication disputes Conflicts between verified organizations Alleged conflicts of interest 5. Informal Resolution Whenever appropriate, parties are encouraged to resolve concerns informally through respectful communication before initiating a formal complaint. Informal discussions should occur within 15 calendar days of the issue whenever possible. 6. Formal Conflict Resolution Process If an informal resolution is unsuccessful or inappropriate, a written complaint may be submitted. The complaint should include: Name of complainant Organization involved Description of the conflict Relevant dates Supporting documentation Desired resolution Complaints should be submitted to: Let’s Talk Pageants Verified Program Email: letstalkpageants@gmail.com 7. Initial Review Upon receipt of a complaint: The complaint will be acknowledged within five (5) business days. Executive Leadership will determine whether the matter falls within the jurisdiction of the LTP Verified Program. If appropriate, an investigation will be initiated. 8. Investigation The investigation may include: Interviews with involved parties Review of submitted documentation Review of applicable policies and standards Consultation with the Accreditation Council Requests for additional information Investigations should generally be completed within 30 calendar days, although complex matters may require additional time. 9. Conflict Resolution Options Depending on the circumstances, LTP may: Facilitate mediation Issue recommendations Require corrective actions Issue written warnings Require additional documentation Place an organization on probation Suspend verification privileges Recommend revocation of verification status Refer the matter to the Appeals Process 10. Conflict of Interest Any individual involved in reviewing a complaint who has: A personal relationship with either party A financial interest A competing organizational interest Any circumstance that could impair impartiality must immediately disclose the conflict and recuse themselves from the matter. A replacement reviewer shall be appointed. 11. Confidentiality Information obtained during the conflict resolution process shall be treated as confidential and shared only with individuals who have a legitimate need to know. LTP may disclose information when required by law or when necessary to protect the integrity of the program. 12. Non-Retaliation Let’s Talk Pageants strictly prohibits retaliation against any individual who: Files a complaint Participates in an investigation Provides information in good faith Serves as a witness Any retaliation may result in disciplinary action, including suspension or revocation of Verified status. 13. Resolution Once the review is complete, all involved parties will receive written notification of: Findings Policy determinations Required corrective actions (if any) Deadlines for compliance Appeal rights 14. Appeals Organizations may appeal decisions in accordance with the LTP Verified Appeals Policy. Appeals must be submitted within the timeframe established in that policy. 15. Record Retention All complaints, investigations, findings, correspondence, and resolutions shall be maintained in accordance with the LTP Records Retention Policy. Records will be retained securely and treated as confidential. 16. Policy Review This policy shall be reviewed annually by Executive Leadership and the Accreditation Council to ensure continued fairness, transparency, and effectiveness.