Purpose
This policy sets out the standards and expectations for the use of WMBC social media and online communication platforms.

It aims to ensure that all communications:

• Support WMBC’s charitable objectives

• Reflect our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI)

• Protect the reputation and integrity of the organisation

• Provide a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment for all

 

Scope
This policy applies to:

• All officers, trustees, and volunteers managing or contributing to WMBC social media

• Officers, trustees, and volunteers referring to WMBC on personal social media accounts

• Use of WMBC online communication platforms (e.g. forums, member groups)

• Members of the public engaging with WMBC content

 

This includes, but is not limited to:

• Facebook

• X (formerly Twitter)

• Instagram

• Bluesky

• WMBC website

 

Roles and Responsibilities
The Social Media Development Officer has overall responsibility for:

• Oversight and management of WMBC social media channels

• Ensuring compliance with this policy

• Coordinating responses to issues or incidents

 

Each WMBC platform must have a clearly identified responsible officer (Primarily the Social Media Development Officer).

 

All officers, trustees, and volunteers are responsible for:

• Adhering to this policy

• Acting in accordance with WMBC values and objectives

• Reporting concerns promptly

 

Standards of Conduct
Individuals representing WMBC must:

• Act professionally and responsibly at all times

• Present WMBC in a positive and appropriate manner

• Avoid content that could harm WMBC’s reputation or that of its members

• Use respectful, inclusive, and non-discriminatory language

 

Behaviour must be consistent with WMBC’s EDI and Safeguarding principles.

 

Content and Communications
All content published on WMBC platforms must:

• Be accurate, appropriate, and aligned with WMBC’s charitable objectives

• Focus on bird conservation, education, events, and related activities

• Respect copyright and intellectual property rights

• Acknowledge sources where required

 

Content must not:

• Include political, religious, or divisive commentary unrelated to WMBC objectives

• Be misleading, offensive, or inappropriate

• Be posted during sensitive periods (e.g. elections) where it may be perceived as partisan

 

Engagement and Moderation
WMBC aims to maintain a positive and constructive online environment.

Those managing platforms must:

• Respond to comments and messages in a timely and courteous manner

• Encourage respectful discussion

• Avoid engaging in disputes or confrontations

 

Inappropriate content must:

• Be reported to the Social Media Development Officer

• Be removed where necessary

 

This includes content that is abusive, discriminatory, misleading, or inconsistent with WMBC
values.

Safeguarding, Privacy and Confidentiality
All social media activity must:

• Protect the privacy and personal data of individuals

• Comply with safeguarding responsibilities

 

Individuals must not:

• Share personal information without explicit consent

• Post images or information involving children, young people, or vulnerable adults without appropriate permission

 

Safeguarding concerns must be reported in line with WMBC safeguarding procedures.

 

Personal Social Media Use
Officers, trustees, and volunteers using personal accounts must:

• Make clear that their views are their own

• Avoid representing personal opinions as those of WMBC

• Avoid posting content that conflicts with WMBC values, policies, or objectives

 

Where WMBC is referenced, individuals should act responsibly and with discretion.

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Incident and Crisis Management
Any potentially damaging issue must be escalated immediately to the Social Media Development Officer.

 

This includes:

• Negative or reputationally sensitive posts

• Complaints or public criticism

• Abusive or discriminatory content

 

Only authorised individuals should respond to such matters, in line with agreed guidance.

 

Breaches of Policy
Failure to comply with this policy may result in:

• Removal of content

• Withdrawal of social media responsibilities

• Further action in line with WMBC governance procedures

 

Members of the public who breach acceptable standards may:

• Have content removed

• Be restricted or blocked from WMBC platforms

 

Contact

For advice, guidance, or to report concerns, contact:
Social Media Development Officer - Email: press@westmidlandbirdclub.org.uk

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Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed periodically and at least every three years to ensure it remains current and effective.