Code of Conduct for the WhatsApp Community of Stockport Foster Carers Association, hereafter referred to as the SFCA.

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The SFCA WhatsApp Support Group and associated WhatsApp Community is a safe space for all Stockport Foster Carers to share, support, and connect with each other. To ensure a positive and helpful environment for everyone, please adhere to the below guidelines.

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We recognise that some members of the SFCA may also be employed as Social Workers or in other roles within the Local Authority. While we value your experience and insight as Foster Carers, it is essential to maintain a clear separation between your employed role and your role as a member of this Support Community.
 

As such:

• Any information shared within the SFCA, including the WhatsApp group, is considered confidential and personal.

• You must not use information obtained from the SFCA WhatsApp Group(s) in your job with the local authority – including in case notes, assessments, or reports.

• You agree not to share or act on any information disclosed in this space without explicit permission or a clear safeguarding justification.

• This applies equally to verbal conversations, written messages, or any other form of communication within the SFCA Community.
   

By remaining in the group and participating as a member, you acknowledge this boundary and agree to uphold it in full.

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Be Respectful: Always communicate with empathy and respect. Remember, we all come from different backgrounds and have unique experiences.
 

Stay On Topic: Keep discussions relevant to fostering and how we can support each other as part of the SFCA community.

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Privacy is Paramount: What's shared in the group stays in the group. Do not share personal information or conversations outside without explicit consent.

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Confidentiality is Key: Be mindful of the sensitivity of topics discussed. Confidential information about children, legal matters, or personal issues should be treated with the utmost discretion and in accordance with data protection laws.

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Protecting Children's Identities: Always safeguard the identities of the children in your care. Do not share photos, names, or any identifiable information without necessary permissions.

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No Spam: Avoid posting irrelevant links, advertisements, or soliciting business.

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Seek to Support, Not to Judge: We're here to offer support and advice, not to pass judgment on others' decisions or situations.

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Report Concerns: If you see messages that don't align with these guidelines or feel uncomfortable, please message the group admins privately. This group is managed by the SFCA and not SMBC so in the first instance please report your concerns to the SFCA. The list of administrators can be found in the member list of this group/community on WhatsApp. Alternatively you can email info@sfca.org.uk.

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Useful Resources: Share and recommend resources that have been helpful to you in your fostering journey, whether it's books, articles, or websites, as long as they are relevant and not for promotional purposes.

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Professional Conduct: Maintain a high level of professionalism in your interactions. This includes respecting confidentiality agreements and abiding by the standards and ethics expected of foster carers.

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Membership: If you cease to be a foster carer, please exit the group immediately to maintain the integrity and focus of the support network.

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By joining this group, you agree to follow these guidelines. Let's maintain a supportive and enriching community for all SFCA members!

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Thank you for being a part of our support network.

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Stockport Foster Carers Association, a registered Charity in England & Wales; number 1102065