Benefice of Kirkdale with Harome, Nunnington and Pockley Social Media Guidelines
These guidelines have been adapted from the community guidelines provided by the Church of England here. They apply to all content posted on the benefice social media accounts run by the Benefice of Kirkdale with Harome, Nunnington and Pockley in the Diocese of York. We have also made a voluntary pledge to the Church of England's Digital Charter to help make social media and the web more widely positive places for conversations to happen.
“Social media is a very public way of enabling us as Christians to live out our calling to share the good news of Jesus Christ. One of its many joys is that it is immediate, interactive, conversational and open-ended. This opportunity comes with a number of downsides if users do not apply the same common sense, kindness and sound judgement that we would use in a face-to-face encounter.
While written specifically for all users who engage with the Church of England’s and Archbishops’ national social media channels, these guidelines are built on universal principles. They are a resource for Christians, people of other faiths and people of no faith. Dioceses and local churches across the Church of England are welcome and encouraged to adopt them.
By engaging with the Benefice of Kirkdale, with Harome, Nunnington and Pockley’s social media accounts, you agree to:
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Be safe. The safety of children, young people and vulnerable adults must be maintained. If you have any concerns, ask the benefice safeguarding representative.
- Be respectful. Do not post or share content that is sexually explicit, inflammatory, hateful, abusive, threatening or otherwise disrespectful.
- Be kind. Treat others how you would wish to be treated and assume the best in people. If you have a criticism or critique to make, consider not just whether you would say it in person, but the tone you would use.
- Be honest. Don’t mislead people about who you are.
- Take responsibility. You are accountable for the things you do, say and write. Text and images shared can be public and permanent, even with privacy settings in place. If you’re not sure, don’t post it.
- Be a good ambassador. Personal and professional life can easily become blurred online so think before you post.
- Disagree well. Some conversations can be places of robust disagreement and it’s important we apply our values in the way we express them.
- Credit others. Acknowledge the work of others. Respect copyright and always credit where it is due. Be careful not to release sensitive or confidential information and always question the source of any content you are considering amplifying.
- Follow the rules. Abide by the terms and conditions of the various social media platforms themselves. If you see a comment that you believe breaks their policies, then please report it to the respective company.
How will we respond to people who breach our social media community guidelines?
The benefice communications team may take action if they receive complaints or spot inappropriate, unsuitable or offensive material posted to the benfice social media accounts. This may include deleting comments, blocking users or reporting comments as appropriate.
Who do I speak to for further advice?
If you have a safeguarding concern, please contact the benefice or diocesan safeguarding representatives.
