Healthwatch Greenwich Social Media Policy

This policy applies to all social media platforms used by staff and volunteers (including board members and interns) in a professional and personal capacity.

Introduction

Why do we use social media and what can we use it for?

Social media is essential to the success of communicating Healthwatch Greenwich’s work. It is important for designated staff and volunteers to participate in social media to engage with our audiences and stakeholders, contribute to relevant conversations, and raise the profile of Healthwatch Greenwich’s work.

Why do we need a social media policy?

We want to ensure that all staff and volunteers using social media represent and reflect Healthwatch Greenwich in the best way possible. It is also important to mitigate risks (such as reputational or legal issues) associated with the use of social media to protect our staff, volunteers and work. Publication and commentary on social media carry similar obligations and is subject to the same laws as other kinds of publication or commentary in the public domain.

Failure to comply with this policy could expose Healthwatch Greenwich to reputational damage and legal consequences as well as putting staff, volunteers, service users and board members at risk.

Responsibilities and breach of policy

Breaches of policy or inappropriate behaviour may incur disciplinary action, depending on the severity of the issue. Please refer to our Volunteer Policy and Employee Disciplinary Procedure for further information on our processes. Staff and volunteers who are unsure about whether something they propose to do on social media might breach policies should seek advice from the Chief Executive Officer.

Download the full policy

You might also be interested in