About Safe Haven – A Ray of Hope

Social Media Policy and Procedures

 

  1. Policy Statement

Social media is a powerful tool for raising awareness, engaging supporters, and promoting the work of Safe Haven – A Ray of Hope. This policy sets out clear guidance for trustees, staff, and volunteers on the responsible use of social media, both in a personal and professional capacity, to protect the charity’s reputation and the people we support.

 

  1. Purpose
  • To promote safe, consistent, and effective use of social media.
  • To safeguard children, vulnerable adults, and staff from harm or reputational risk.
  • To ensure compliance with relevant legislation (e.g. GDPR, Safeguarding, and Charity Commission guidelines).
  • To distinguish between official and personal use.

 

  1. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, trustees, volunteers, and third parties representing the charity on platforms such as:

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • X (formerly Twitter)
  • TikTok
  • LinkedIn
  • WhatsApp (groups used for charity purposes)
  • YouTube and blogs

 

  1. Acceptable Use

Official Charity Accounts

Only authorised individuals may post on behalf of Safe Haven – A Ray of Hope.
Content must:

  • Be respectful, factual, and in line with the charity’s mission
  • Use appropriate language and tone
  • Avoid sharing confidential or personal data without consent
  • Reflect our values of inclusion, safety, and compassion
  • Be cleared for accuracy before publishing (where applicable)

Personal Use

When using personal accounts:

  • Do not claim to represent the charity unless authorised
  • Avoid posting anything that could bring the charity into disrepute
  • Do not disclose confidential charity information
  • Respect the boundaries and dignity of service users, especially children
  • Use disclaimers such as: “Views are my own and not those of Safe Haven – A Ray of Hope” where relevant

 

  1. Safeguarding and Privacy
  • Never post identifying images or personal details of children, young people, or vulnerable adults without written consent.
  • Avoid real-time sharing of location data for children’s homes or sensitive projects.
  • Any safeguarding concerns discovered online must be reported immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).

 

  1. Monitoring and Moderation
  • Comments on our platforms may be monitored and moderated.
  • Hate speech, abuse, spam, or misinformation will be removed.
  • Breaches may be reported to relevant authorities or platforms.

 

  1. Inappropriate Use and Disciplinary Action

Examples of misuse include:

  • Harassment, bullying, or discrimination
  • Sharing confidential data or images
  • Expressing personal political or religious opinions on official accounts
  • Posting misleading or offensive content

Breaches of this policy may result in:

  • Removal of social media access
  • Disciplinary action (including removal from volunteer/trustee role)
  • Legal or regulatory reporting, if required

 

  1. Training and Support
  • Training will be provided to anyone responsible for social media activities.
  • Questions and support requests should be directed to the Communications Lead or Charity Coordinator.

 

  1. Review of Policy

This policy will be reviewed annually or earlier if social media platforms or guidance change significantly.

 

Approved by:

Blessing Olalemi: May 30th

Kerry- Ann Batten: May 29

John Olalemi: May 30th

 

Last reviewed: May 30th 2025 | Next review: June 2026