Sober Living House Social Media Policy

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that both staff and residents of Next Steps Housing maintain a professional and respectful presence on social media while safeguarding the privacy, dignity, and well-being of individuals in the house. This policy outlines expectations and guidelines for social media activity, both during and outside of hours spent in the program.

Scope

This policy applies to all staff, residents, and volunteers associated with Next Steps Housing.

1. Respect for Privacy and Confidentiality
   • Residents’ Privacy: No personal information or details about other residents, their recovery, or anything discussed within the sober living house should be shared or discussed on social media.
   • Staff Privacy: Staff should not share personal information about residents, other staff members, or the house in a manner that could be traced back to individuals.
     
2. Professional Conduct
   • For Staff: Staff are expected to maintain professionalism on all platforms. Avoid posting anything that may reflect poorly on the house, its mission, or its services.
   • For Residents: Residents should be mindful of how their social media activity may affect their recovery or the community within the house. Posts should avoid promoting negative behaviors, drug or alcohol use, or anything that contradicts the principles of sobriety.
     
3. Promotion of the House
   • Branding: Residents and staff are encouraged to promote positive messages about recovery but should refrain from directly endorsing or advertising the house on personal social media accounts unless specifically authorized by the management.
   • Sharing of Stories: If a resident or staff member wishes to share their personal recovery journey on social media, they should focus on positive experiences and ensure that other individuals’ confidentiality is respected. Posting recovery stories may be subject to approval by management.
     
4. No Use of House Social Media Accounts Without Permission
   • Only designated individuals are authorized to manage official social media accounts for Journey 2 More Sober Living House. Unauthorized use, such as posting from the house’s accounts, is prohibited.
     
5. Harassment, Bullying, and Discrimination
   • Any online behavior that promotes harassment, bullying, or discrimination based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or recovery status will not be tolerated and may result in disciplinary action.
     
6. Personal Social Media Use by Staff
   • Staff should be mindful when interacting with residents on social media. Friend requests or direct messaging should be approached with caution to maintain professional boundaries.
   • Prohibited Behavior: Staff should avoid commenting on or “liking” posts that promote substance use, risky behavior, or anything contrary to the sober living environment.
     
7. Addressing Negative Online Content
   • If any staff or residents see negative content related to the sober living house online, they should notify management immediately. Negative content or false reviews can be addressed appropriately through the proper channels.
8. Violations and Disciplinary Action
   • Violating this social media policy may result in disciplinary action, including but not limited to a warning, suspension, or termination for staff members, and possible discharge from the program for residents, depending on the severity of the violation.

Acknowledgement
By participating in the Journey 2 More Sober Living House program, staff and residents acknowledge that they have read and understood the social media policy and agree to adhere to its guidelines.