SOCIAL MEDIA GUIDELINES

Adopted from the East of Scotland FA Guidelines

Internet and mobile based social networking sites such as Facebook, X/Twitter, MySpace, Bebo, Blackberry Messenger, MSN, Live Profile, Android, Instagram, WhatsApp, Snapchat and any such similar currently existing or future existing sites, as well as the recent phenomenon of ‘Blogging’ (writing an online and public diary) have become increasingly popular and the club is keen to ensure that its Officials, Management, Players and Coaching Staff etc. remain protected in what is a very open and public way of sharing information and images across the internet.

The club acknowledges that blogs and social networking sites provide individuals with a way of sharing their insights, expressing their opinions and communicating in a global environment. When you choose to go public with your opinions however through a blog, social networking site or other openly accessible medium, you are legally responsible for those opinions. You should therefore be aware that you can be held personally responsible for any commentary deemed to be defamatory, obscene, discriminatory, proprietary or libellous. For these reasons, you need to exercise caution with regard to any derogatory, discriminatory or bullying remarks or characterisations, copyrighted materials, exaggeration or obscenity. In essence, what you post to the internet is at your own risk and other parties can pursue legal action against you personally for postings

To avoid any problems or potential disciplinary action, the club recommends that players, etc. remember a number of guidelines, which are listed below, when using social media:

1. Avoid commenting on matters relating to referees.

2. Avoid making instant comment.

3. Avoid being critical of those who hold positions of authority within football.

4. Others may publish any comments made by you without your consent, as blogging is considered to be in the public domain.

5. Be completely certain of the accuracy/legitimacy of what you are saying.

6. If you are unsure whether a post may be controversial then don’t post it.

7. Anything said online – whether good, bad or indifferent – reflects upon you and possibly your club and may impact upon its reputation.

8. Any comment or photo you put out makes an indelible impression online – you might think you have deleted it, but it will be recorded and remain accessible.

Finally, Social Media can be a great way to keep in touch with fans, fellow players and friends and to raise the club’s profile

Enjoy it responsibly!!!!!!!!!!

Reviewed & Approved by the Committee

Hill of Beath Hawthorn F.C.

March 2024