HAVOCA Safeguarding Policy
Purpose
HAVOCA (Help for Adult Victims Of Child Abuse) is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for adult survivors of child abuse and their advocates. We value each survivor’s perspective and aim to foster healing and empowerment through shared experiences and mutual support.
Membership Screening
Introductory Post: All new members are required to submit an introductory post, which must be approved by a moderator before they can participate in the forums.
Screening Process: Moderators review introductory posts in an effort to ensure the safety and authenticity of each member.
Moderation and Monitoring
Ad Hoc Monitoring: Moderators monitor the boards on an ad hoc basis, stepping in to address issues, complaints, and concerns as they arise.
Proactive Involvement: Moderators are empowered to intervene in discussions to maintain a respectful and supportive environment.
Moderator Selection and Oversight
Selection Criteria: Moderators are selected based on the following criteria:
Membership Tenure: Individuals who have been active forum members for a significant period.
Compassion and Empathy: Demonstrated qualities of compassion and empathy suitable for the moderation role.
Moderator Selection Process
Volunteer Basis: Moderators are volunteers from within the community. Moderators are not necessarily professional and they are not required to hold formal qualifications. Moderators give up their own free time and they are not reimbursed for their efforts.
Probation Period: New moderators undergo a three-month probation period to ensure suitability for the role.
Moderator Training and Support
On-the-Job Training: New moderators receive hands-on training during their probation period.
Regular Check-Ups: Continuous support and oversight are provided through regular online check-ins via the private staff room board.
Moderator Safeguarding Considerations
Survivor Sensitivity: Acknowledgement that moderators are primarily survivors themselves. Care is taken to ensure their personal well-being and progress in their healing journey are not compromised by their moderating duties.
Reporting and Response
Reporting: Members can report inappropriate content or behaviour to a moderator or directly to the Trustee. Alternatively there is a report shortcut on each post so that users can highlight a specific post to a moderator.
Complaint Process: All reports are handled individually, with a detailed record maintained for each case.
Investigation: Any accusation will be investigated thoroughly. Posts, threads, and private messages (PMs) may be reviewed to determine if the forums have been used for any criminal activity.
Action and Reporting: If evidence of criminal activity is found, HAVOCA will report incidents to the relevant authorities.
Content Guidelines
Prohibited Content: The following types of content are strictly prohibited:
- Hate speech
- Inappropriate graphic content
- Any form of bullying or harassment
Respectful Communication: Members are expected to communicate respectfully, fostering a supportive atmosphere.
The forum shall be used iaw the Forum Rules.
User Privacy
Privacy Policy: HAVOCA has a comprehensive privacy policy that members must agree to, ensuring the protection of user data and privacy.
Data Protection: Measures are in place to safeguard personal information and maintain confidentiality.
Consequences and Enforcement
Warnings and Bans: Violations of the safeguarding policy may result in warnings, temporary bans, or permanent bans, depending on the severity and frequency of the violations.
Consistent Enforcement: Forum Rules are enforced consistently to maintain a safe and supportive environment for all members.
Community Involvement
Member Participation: Members are encouraged to actively participate in maintaining a safe environment by following community guidelines and supporting one another.
Peer Support: Members can offer peer support to each other, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility.
Meeting in Person: If you decide to meet another member in person, please remember that HAVOCA isn’t responsible for your safety. You’re in charge of your own well-being. Meeting up is entirely your own choice and risk.
Updates and Communication
Policy Review: The safeguarding policy is reviewed every six months to ensure it remains relevant and effective.
Communication of Changes: Any changes to the policy are communicated to members through messages posted on the boards.
Supporting Documentation
This Safeguarding Policy is supported by the following documentation:
HAVOCA Constitution
Privacy Policy
Diversity Inclusion and Equality Policy
Terms and Conditions
Terms and Conditions – Clause 12. Complaint Process
Moderator Terms of Reference
Hierarchy of Documents for HAVOCA:
HAVOCA Constitution
The foundational document outlining the core principles, mission, and governance structure of HAVOCA.
Terms and Conditions
The comprehensive rules and guidelines for users of the forum and services provided by HAVOCA.
Clause 12. Complaint Process
A specific section within the Terms and Conditions detailing the procedure for handling complaints.
Privacy Policy
Guidelines on how personal information of members is collected, used, and protected.
Diversity, Inclusion, and Equality Policy
Policies ensuring equal treatment and opportunities for all members, promoting diversity and inclusion within the community.
Moderator Terms of Reference
Detailed roles, responsibilities, and guidelines specifically for forum moderators, ensuring they uphold the community standards and support members effectively.
