Websites and social media

Looking after your church's social media and website? Policies you will need to know.

Safeguarding Policy.

It is the responsibility of everyone to ensure the protection of children and vulnerable adults online and offline and spot the warning signs for those who may be experiencing abuse or online bullying. Familiarise yourself with the Diocese Safeguarding Policy (chapter 12 of the Safeguarding Handbook, page 38) and who to contact if you have questions or concerns.

Some points for you to consider…

• When sharing images of children online photo consent must be signed by their parents or guardian, including consent to share on social media. We advise renewing these consent forms annually.
• Keep photos stored in a secure location and limit access to only those who need it. Once securely stored remove the photos from phones and cameras.
• Maintain accountability by having multiple administrators on social media accounts. Facebook pages can have multiple administrators, however this is not the case on Twitter and Instagram, so make the login details available to two or three key people. If possible, the vicar should be one of your Facebook administrators and have log in details for your Twitter and Instagram accounts and your website.
• Never use social media to private message anyone under the age of 18 or vulnerable adults. 

For more guidance, please visit the Parish Safeguarding Handbook or contact your diocesan safeguarding team.

Photography/video consent form.

Model consent form - recordings

The Church of England recently launched social media advice tackling offensive behaviour and misleading content. To find out more, click here. At the same time the Church is urging Christians and others to sign up to a voluntary digital charter aimed at fostering a more positive atmosphere online.