Bristol Harlequins RFC

Bristol Harlequins RFC Unveils New Social Media Policy

Bristol Harlequins RFC is pleased to announce the release of our comprehensive new Social Media Policy. This policy, which covers both official and unofficial Bristol Harlequins pages, is designed to guide the use of social media by all members, players, coaches, staff, and volunteers. The aim is to ensure our social media presence remains professional, respectful, and consistent with our core values.

Highlights of the New Social Media Policy:

1. Purpose and Scope:

   • The policy aims to guide the social media activities of all associated with Bristol Harlequins RFC, ensuring a professional and respectful online presence.
   • It applies to all social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and club-affiliated forums or websites.

2. General Guidelines:

   • Personal Responsibility: Members should be mindful of their social media activity and its reflection on the club.
   • Respect and Professionalism: All interactions should be respectful, avoiding offensive or discriminatory content.
   • Confidentiality: Confidential information about the club or its members should not be shared online.
   • Accuracy: Ensure all shared information is accurate and up-to-date.
   • Compliance: Adhere to laws governing defamation, copyright, privacy, and data protection.

3. Specific Prohibitions:

   • No posting of violent, threatening, hateful, or obscene content.
   • Avoid public discussions on sensitive club matters.
   • Do not use club channels for personal gain without approval.

4. Club Representation:

   • Official Accounts: Only authorized individuals may post on official club accounts, which must be clearly identified.
   • Branding: Use club branding elements appropriately and follow naming conventions for new pages.
   • Post Guidelines: Posts should follow the TREDS principles: Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline, Sportspersonship.

5. Monitoring and Enforcement:

   • New social media pages must be approved by the club committee or Communications & PR Manager.
   • The club reserves the right to monitor social media activity to ensure policy compliance.
   • Violations may result in disciplinary actions, including suspension or termination of membership.

6. Training and Support:

   • The club will provide training and resources to help members comply with the policy.
   • Members can seek guidance from the Communications & PR Manager for any uncertainties.

Next Steps:

The new Social Media Policy is effective immediately. We encourage all members to review the policy, which is attached to this announcement, and integrate its guidelines into their social media activities. The policy document is also accessible through the club’s internal portal and has been distributed via email.

Feedback and Queries:

For any questions or feedback regarding the new policy, please contact our Communications & PR Manager, Dean Jones, at secretary@bristolharlequins.com. We value your input and are here to support you in adhering to these guidelines.

Thank you for your cooperation in maintaining the integrity and spirit of Bristol Harlequins RFC online.

Bristol Harlequins RFC Communications Team

Attachment: BHRFC_POL_003 - Social Media Policy

Bristol Harlequins Rugby Football Club
Valhalla, Broomhill Road, Brislington, Bristol, BS4 5RG
Affiliated to RFU, Somerset RFC, Bristol & District Rugby Football Combination