As a volunteer working with vulnerable young people, it’s crucial to maintain your own safety online. Follow the recommendations below to ensure your social media is safe. Not only is this related to your work with Medics & Me, but also relevant to your future as a Doctor.

Social Media Privacy Settings:

• Set your social media accounts to private to limit access to your profile and posts.
  
• Only accept friend requests from people you know personally. Do not accept requests from mentees or their parents.
  
• Avoid sharing personal details such as your address, phone number, or sensitive information in your profile or posts.

Use Professional Communication Channels:

• Use designated communication platforms (e.g. Medics & Me email) for communication with your mentee.
• Do not use private emails or phone communication with mentees or their parents

Be Mindful of Online Behaviour:

• Keep interactions with young people professional and focused on your role. 
• Avoid sharing personal anecdotes or engaging in discussions that could blur boundaries; be open with your mentees about medical school and your journey to be a Doctor, but avoid chatting about getting drunk at freshers!

Report and Block Inappropriate Behaviour:

• Promptly report any concerning interactions; if your mentee tries to contact you over social media. Do not engage, and alert the safeguarding team.

NSPCC Learning- Keeping Children Safe Online

NSPCC Learning- Social Media, online communities and safeguarding

Social media, online communities and safeguarding