Social Media Policy

1. Purpose

Purpose
 Shaftesbury Refugee Group uses social media to share stories, updates, and invitations to community engagement, reflecting our values of compassion, inclusion, and respect for the dignity of all. Our online spaces aim to be safe, considerate, and welcoming, avoiding any misuse or harassment.

2. Who this applies to

This policy covers:

  • Trustees

  • Volunteers 

  • Beneficiaries, friends and the public who engage with our social media

It applies to all activities, including in-person events, phone calls, WhatsApp, emails, and online interactions.

3. Content & Responsibility

  • We ensure that social media content is respectful, accurate, and sensitive, reflecting our safeguarding values and commitment to equity

  • Personal information of refugees, volunteers, or trustees will only be used with explicit permission, consistent with our privacy standards

  • When posting about events or stories, we aim for inclusive language and clear messaging that upholds our anti-racism, equality, and dignity principles

4. Engagement & Conduct

  • We welcome interaction—questions, feedback, and discussion are encouraged—provided it is respectful, non-discriminatory, and not harassing.

  • Harassment, abusive language, hate speech, or personal attacks will not be tolerated. We reserve the right to remove, hide, or not publish such content and, if necessary, block repeat offenders.

5. Role-Specific Guidance

Volunteers

  • Volunteers, as with trustees, must uphold our existing safeguarding, equality, conduct, and privacy policies, and hold a current DBS certificate where required

  • When interacting on behalf of the charity:

    • Avoid posting personal opinions that conflict with the charity’s values.

    • Do not disclose confidential or sensitive information.

    • If unsure whether content is appropriate, consult a trustee or the communications lead, Nicola Pender, before posting.

Trustees

  • Trustees are held to the highest standards of impartiality and responsible conduct, in line with your Code of Conduct and governance policies

  • On social media, trustees should:

    • Uphold the charity’s values in tone and content.

    • Refrain from political or divisive commentary that could compromise neutrality.

    • Ensure any personal social media activity clearly distinguishes personal views from those of the charity.

6. Transparency & Accountability

  • Major announcements, fundraising efforts, or partnerships shared via social media should be coordinated with trustees and reflect our commitment to openness and responsible communication.

  • We maintain the ability to monitor, moderate, and respond appropriately to misuse or harmful comments to protect the dignity and safety of all participants.

7. Supportive Community

By engaging with our social media channels, all followers, volunteers, Friends, and trustees help foster a safe and constructive online environment—one that aligns with our mission of compassionate support and the highest ethical standards.

8. Review and Commitment

This policy is reviewed every 2 years or after any significant incident. We encourage feedback to ensure it stays relevant and effective.

Contact

Email: shaftesburyrefugeegroup@gmail.com