Official Policy: Social Media

1. Commenting and Moderation

·       Commenting on social media posts will be disabled by default.

·       In limited circumstances, comments may be enabled on posts that are explicitly intended for community engagement or consultation.

2. Handling Harmful, Abusive, or Threatening Content

·       Any comments posted on enabled threads that include harassment, abuse, threats, intimidation, or incitement of violence will be immediately removed.

·       Where appropriate, such content will be reported directly to the police.

·       Persistent offenders may be blocked from the page and, where necessary, prevented from engaging in private communication, in line with the Acceptable Behaviour Policy.

3. Alternative Routes for Dialogue

·       Constituents wishing to raise concerns, seek clarification, or engage in discussion are encouraged to do so via:

o   Email

o   Telephone

o   Advice surgeries

·       Contact details will be clearly available on social media profiles and relevant posts.

·       These channels allow issues to be addressed safely, constructively, and with appropriate follow-up.

4. Maintaining a Safe and Respectful Environment

·       The removal of comment sections is intended to protect the safety, wellbeing, and mental health of staff, representatives, and constituents.

·       Social media platforms can no longer be reliably maintained as healthy environments for political debate without significant moderation resources.

·       Respectful engagement remains welcome through appropriate and monitored communication channels.

5. Ongoing Review of Policy Effectiveness

·       This policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure it continues to protect safety while enabling meaningful engagement.

·       Any changes or adjustments will be shared publicly as and when they are made.