Possible Outcomes
Once an investigation reaches a determination, that determination results in one of several defined outcomes. These outcomes are not ranked as an automatic escalation ladder applied uniformly to every case - a first concern and a repeated, serious breach do not sit at the same point on the same scale, and the outcome reflects what the investigation actually found, not a fixed sequence that has to be worked through regardless of severity.
Dismissal
The complaint is found not to be substantiated, or the conduct described, while perhaps regrettable, does not represent a breach of the standards this document sets out. A dismissal is not a dismissal of the complainant's experience - it means the specific claim, as investigated, did not meet the threshold for further action. As set out in the investigation procedure, a dismissed complaint is explained with the same care as an upheld one.
Informal Resolution
Some matters are resolved through direct acknowledgement, clarification, or agreement between the parties involved, facilitated where useful by FlowState Divers. This is appropriate where the underlying issue was a misunderstanding, a one-off lapse without lasting harm, or something genuinely capable of being resolved through honest conversation rather than formal sanction. Informal resolution is still documented, and does not preclude further action if the same concern resurfaces.
Private Guidance or Correction
Where a mentor's or diver's conduct fell short of what this document requires, but the matter does not warrant formal disciplinary action, a private, direct conversation addressing the specific gap may be the appropriate outcome. This is recorded, but is not a public or membership-affecting sanction - it exists to correct a specific behaviour before it becomes a pattern.
Prescribed Remedial Action
Where a genuine gap in knowledge, skill, or judgement is identified - rather than a willful breach of conduct - the individual concerned may be required to complete specific remedial work before continuing to train, mentor, or represent FlowState Divers in the capacity the complaint concerned. This might include additional supervised sessions, a requalification-style review, or specific retraining tied directly to what the investigation found.
Defined Probationary Period
An individual may be permitted to continue operating under the FlowState Divers name, but under a defined period of closer oversight, additional review, or specific conditions attached to their continued standing. A probationary period always carries a stated duration and stated conditions - it is not an indefinite cloud left hanging over someone without resolution.
Defined Suspension
Standing under the FlowState Divers name is paused for a stated period, during which the individual does not train, mentor, or represent the institution. A suspension always carries a defined length and, where applicable, defined conditions for reinstatement at the end of it. It is not used as an open-ended holding pattern in place of a clearer determination.
Revocation of Standing
Where the conduct found is serious, repeated despite prior correction, or fundamentally incompatible with what this document and its guiding principles require, an individual's standing to train, mentor, or represent FlowState Divers in any capacity is revoked. This is the most serious outcome available and is reserved for matters that genuinely warrant it - not applied as a default response to avoid a harder judgement call about proportionality.
Outcomes Are Not Mutually Exclusive
Every Outcome Is Explained
Regardless of which outcome results, the individual concerned and the complainant are both given a clear account of the determination and the reasoning behind it, consistent with the confidentiality principles set out in the investigation procedure. An outcome announced without explanation is not a fair outcome, even where the underlying decision was the right one.