Social Media and Communications Policy

As a registered charity, [Charity name] is committed to communicating openly, accurately, and responsibly with its stakeholders and the wider public.
This Social Media and Communications Policy sets out the principles, standards, and controls governing all external and internal communications, including the use of social media platforms.

The Trustees recognise that effective communication enhances transparency and engagement, while inappropriate communication can expose the Charity to legal, reputational, and safeguarding risks.

Purpose of the Policy

1.1 The purpose of this Policy is to:

Ensure communications are accurate, consistent, and lawful.
Protect the Charity’s reputation and public trust.
Promote responsible use of social media.
Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

1.2 This Policy provides guidance to Trustees, employees, volunteers, and others representing the Charity.

Scope of the Policy

2.1 This Policy applies to:

Trustees.
Employees and volunteers.
Contractors and third parties acting on behalf of the Charity.

2.2 It covers:

Official Charity communications.
Use of social media platforms.
Internal and external communications.

Principles of Communication

3.1 All communications must be:

Honest, accurate, and clear.
Respectful and inclusive.
Consistent with the Charity’s values and objectives.
Compliant with legal and regulatory requirements.

3.2 Communications must not be misleading, offensive, or discriminatory.

Official Communications

4.1 Official communications include:

Website content.
Social media posts.
Press releases and media statements.
Email newsletters and publications.

4.2 Only authorised individuals may issue official communications on behalf of the Charity.

Use of Social Media

5.1 Social media platforms may be used to:

Promote the Charity’s work.
Engage with supporters and stakeholders.
Share information and updates.

5.2 Content shared must:

Be accurate and appropriate.
Protect confidentiality and privacy.
Avoid political or controversial statements unless authorised.

Personal Use of Social Media

6.1 Trustees, employees, and volunteers must:

Make clear when expressing personal views.
Avoid implying they speak on behalf of the Charity.

6.2 Personal social media use must not:

Bring the Charity into disrepute.
Breach confidentiality or data protection.

Safeguarding and Online Conduct

7.1 The Charity is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults online.

7.2 Communications must:

Avoid identifying individuals without consent.
Follow safeguarding policies.

Data Protection and Privacy

8.1 All communications must comply with:

Data protection legislation.
The Charity’s Data Protection Policy.

8.2 Personal data must not be shared without appropriate consent or lawful basis.

Political Activity and Neutrality

9.1 The Charity must remain politically neutral unless permitted by law and its governing document.

9.2 Communications must not:

Support political parties or candidates.
Breach Charity Commission guidance on political activity.

Media Relations

10.1 Media enquiries must:

Be handled by authorised individuals.
Be responded to accurately and appropriately.

10.2 Sensitive or controversial matters must be escalated to senior management or the Trustees.

Monitoring and Moderation

11.1 The Charity will:

Monitor official social media channels.
Moderate comments where necessary.

11.2 Abusive, defamatory, or inappropriate content may be removed.

Complaints and Issues

12.1 Complaints relating to communications will:

Be handled promptly.
Follow the Charity’s Complaints Policy.

12.2 Errors will be corrected transparently where appropriate.

Training and Awareness

13.1 The Charity will:

Provide guidance and training where appropriate.
Promote awareness of this Policy.

13.2 Individuals are responsible for understanding and complying with this Policy.

Governance and Responsibility

14.1 The Board of Trustees has overall responsibility for communications oversight.

14.2 Day-to-day management may be delegated, but accountability remains with the Trustees.

Monitoring and Review

15.1 This Policy will be reviewed:

At least annually, or
Following changes in law, technology, or Charity activities.

15.2 Any amendments must be approved by the Board of Trustees.

Conclusion

By adhering to this Social Media and Communications Policy, [Charity name] ensures that all communications are responsible, transparent, and respectful, supporting engagement while protecting the Charity’s reputation, legal compliance, and public trust.

Signed: ………………………………………
Chair of the Board of Trustees

Date: ………………………………………

Charity Policy templates

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Disclaimer:

Naail & Co provides these policy templates solely as guidelines or standard templates to assist charities in developing their own policies in accordance with Charity Commission England & Wales compliance. These templates are not intended to serve as legal or professional advice, and Naail & Co cannot be held responsible or liable for any outcomes arising from their use. It is essential that each registered charity carefully tailors and customizes these policies to reflect its specific needs, structure, and legal obligations. We strongly recommend that charities seek independent legal or professional advice to ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.

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