Online Safety Guidance

The Importance of Online Safety

In an age where technology is an integral part of church life, it is vital to be aware of the risks that online spaces can present. While digital platforms are a valuable tool for connection and ministry, they can also be exploited by those who seek to groom or harm others. Our guidance is designed to help our staff, volunteers, and community members engage online in a way that is both effective and safe.

Guidelines for Church Staff and Volunteers

When communicating online as part of your church role, you must:

• Adhere at all times to the principles of the Synod's safeguarding policy and your local church's safe working practices.
• Use official church or organisational email addresses for all communications. Avoid using personal social media accounts to engage with the church community.
• Conduct risk assessments on any online platforms (e.g., Zoom, social media groups) before using them for meetings, especially where confidential information may be discussed.
• Review and follow the lone working policy to ensure guidance is in place to mitigate the risks of unavoidable one-to-one online contact.

Guidance for Parents and Carers

It can be challenging for parents and carers to keep children safe when they are online. We encourage you to learn about the risks of inappropriate content and online abuse and to talk openly with your children about these dangers. The NSPCC runs a free advice line for parents with questions about online safety on 0808 800 5002.

The URC provides a model 'Church Online Safety Policy' (P3), which you can find on our Safeguarding Resources & Forms page. For direct support on reporting online abuse, please see our Safeguarding Contacts page.