SOIN Community Guidelines

Welcome to SOIN's Values and Community Guidelines designed to foster a positive, respectful, and engaging platform that champions social inclusion and community-driven collaboration. These guidelines outline the values, responsibilities, and standards of behaviour expected from all members, ensuring a safe and empowering space for everyone.

Our Values

·         Inclusivity: SOIN welcomes individuals, groups, and businesses from all walks of life, creating a space where everyone feels represented and respected.

·         Safety and Wellbeing: Ensuring the physical, emotional, and mental safety of all members is central to SOIN's ethos.

·         Empowerment Through Connection: SOIN fosters opportunities for meaningful connections that inspire personal and collective growth.

·         Ethical Engagement: Members are encouraged to act with integrity, ensuring their interactions promote trust and transparency.

·         Community-Driven Collaboration: By leveraging shared resources and working together, members contribute to building stronger, more connected communities.

Our Guidelines

These guidelines outline the standards of behaviour expected and actions that align with SOIN's goals of fostering social inclusion, supporting community-driven initiatives, and providing a safe community for members to connect and collaborate. It also addresses the roles and responsibilities of each member and subsequent actions should the values or guidelines are violated.

The Values and Community Guidelines aim to:

·         Establish clear standards for user behaviour and content management on the SOIN platform.

·         Encourage positive connections and purposeful interactions among users.

·         Protect users from harmful content and behaviour.

1.    Inclusivity

 

1.1.       SOIN Group and Event Policies

 

Purpose: To ensure that all groups and events created or hosted on or through the SOIN platform are aligned with SOIN’s mission of social inclusion, ethical engagement, and the reduction of loneliness. This policy also outlines responsibilities for group admins, moderators, and event organisers.

Scope: This policy applies to all group creators, members, event organisers, and participants on the SOIN platform.

Group Creation Guidelines:

·         Group Purpose: Groups must be created with clear, specific purposes that align with one or more of the SOIN hubs (Inclusion, Emotional Wellbeing, Business & Career, Health & Wellbeing, etc.). Group creators must provide a detailed description of the group's purpose, values, and goals.

·         Admin Responsibilities: Admins must actively monitor their group, ensuring that posts, discussions, and resources align with the group’s values and SOIN’s community standards. Admins can appoint moderators to assist with managing posts, membership, approvals and events.

·         Group Membership: Membership must be open to individuals who align with the group’s stated purpose. Admins can set joining questions to ensure alignment with values and ethos. This further enables groups to provide person-centered support through better understanding of each individual’s goals, experience or SMART Goal. Membership request can be approved or rejected, however, it is vitally important admins provide rational for rejecting a membership request, as all groups must be inclusive with equity of access.

·         Content Approval: Group admins are responsible for reviewing and approving posts before they including in the SOIN Feed. Posts will be rated based on relevance, so this provides a mechanism for admins and moderators to evaluate group post suitable for posting in to the SOIN Feed.

Event Guidelines:

All events must be relevant to the group’s goals. Events should foster local community engagement and must comply with SOIN’s ethical standards.

·         Event Creation: Events must be hosted within the group's purpose and aligned with one of SOIN's hubs. Events should foster meaningful offline engagement after online connections are made.

·         Event Safety: Event organisers are responsible for ensuring that all in-person events comply with local laws, health and safety regulations, and SOIN’s ‘Safety and Wellbeing’ policies. Events must promote a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment.

·         Event Content: The content of events (workshops, gatherings, webinars, etc.) must reflect the values of the group and SOIN. Organisers must ensure that event activities do not promote hate speech, violence, misinformation, or harmful practices.

·         Event Moderation: Group admins and moderators must monitor event discussions and materials posted on SOIN. Any inappropriate content or behaviour should be reported immediately.

Violation and Enforcement:

·         Reporting: Members can report violations of group and event policies to SOIN, admins, or moderators. Admins have the right to remove members who violate group values and SOIN policies.

·         Consequences: Groups or events found to be violating SOIN policies may be warned, temporarily suspended, or permanently removed from the platform. Admins and organisers may also lose their ability to create future groups or events.

1.2.       SOIN Protecting Offline and Online Events Policy

 

Purpose: This policy ensures that all offline and online events hosted on SOIN are safe, inclusive, and respectful, protecting the wellbeing of attendees and participants.

Scope: This policy applies to all event organisers, participants, and venues for both virtual and in-person events hosted or promoted on SOIN.

Event Safety Standards:

·         Health and Safety Compliance: For all in-person events, organisers must ensure that the venue complies with local health and safety regulations, including capacity limits, crowd control, fire safety, hygiene standards, and emergency protocols.

·         Inclusivity: Events must promote inclusivity and be accessible to all participants, regardless of their background, abilities, or identity. This includes providing accessible accommodations where necessary.

·         Security: Organisers must ensure that events are secure. For larger events, this may involve hiring security personnel or coordinating with local authorities.

Online Event Guidelines:

·         Platform Security: Online events must be hosted on secure platforms to prevent unauthorised access or disruptions. Organisers should ensure the privacy of participants by using password-protected or meetings dial in details or other security measures.

·         Content Moderation: Online event hosts are responsible for moderating discussions to ensure respectful dialogue. Inappropriate behaviour, hate speech, or harassment should result in the immediate removal of the offending participant.

Offline Event Guidelines:

·         Event Liability: Organisers of offline events must ensure they have adequate liability coverage for incidents such as accidents or damages that may occur during the event. SOIN is not liable for injuries or damages resulting from member-organised events.

·         Attendee Screening: For events that are sensitive in nature or involve vulnerable populations, organisers should implement screening processes to ensure participants are aligned with the event’s purpose and goals.

Reporting Unsafe Events:

·         Incident Reporting: Participants can report unsafe or inappropriate events to SOIN. Event organisers found to be negligent or in violation of SOIN policies may be restricted from hosting future events.

·         Event Reporting: If any issues arise during an event, attendees should report them to the event host or SOIN.

2.    Safety and Wellbeing

 

2.1.       Creating Groups for Children and Young Adults Under 18 Policy

 

Objective

Although SOIN is not available for use of those under the age of 18, it recognises that some of the groups/businesses that are utilising the platform may be for the benefit of young people. To establish a safe and inclusive environment for children and young adults under the age of 18 while promoting meaningful engagement and collaboration.

Key Requirements

Parental Consent:

·         Groups involving minors must ensure parental or guardian consent for participation.

·         Admins are required to maintain proof of consent for all members under 18.

Admin and Moderator Screening:

·         All group admins and moderators working with minors must undergo verification to ensure suitability.

·         This includes submitting identification and, where applicable, passing background checks.

Content Moderation:

·         All posts, discussions, and shared resources must be age-appropriate and align with SOIN’s community standards.

·         Any content deemed inappropriate will result in immediate removal and further investigation.

Clear Reporting Mechanisms:

·         Groups must have clear processes for reporting inappropriate behaviour or content.

·         Admins and moderators are required to respond to and resolve reports within 24 hours.

Responsibilities

·         Admins and Moderators:

o    Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of young members by fostering a supportive and harm-free environment.

o    Regularly reviewing group content and enforcing SOIN’s policies.

·         SOIN Support Team:

o    Providing ongoing support to group admins and moderators, including training and resources for safeguarding.

2.2.       Violence and Criminal Behaviour Policy

 

Objective: To protect users from exposure to violent or criminal behaviour, whether online or offline.

Prohibited Content:

·         Violence and Incitement: Users must not post or share content that incites violence, glorifies harm, or promotes criminal activity.

·         Hate Groups: Groups, businesses or individuals identified as engaging in or promoting hate-based activities, terrorism, or violent extremism will be immediately removed from the platform.

Dangerous Individuals and Groups:

·         Banning: Any individual or group identified as dangerous by national or international bodies (e.g., terrorist organisations) will be banned from the platform.

·         Reporting: Members should report any content or activity that threatens violence or encourages harm.

Fraud and Deceptive Practices:

·         Prohibited Scams: Fraudulent schemes, scams, phishing attempts, and other forms of deceit are not allowed on SOIN. Members caught engaging in these activities will be permanently banned and may face legal action.

2.3.       SOIN Safety Policies

 

Objective: To safeguard the mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing of all members on the platform, especially those that are defined as vulnerable individuals.

Adult Sexual Exploitation:

·         Zero Tolerance: Any content promoting or facilitating the sexual exploitation of adults will be immediately removed. Members responsible for such content will be banned and reported to authorities if necessary.

Bullying and Harassment:

·         No Tolerance for Bullying: Bullying, harassment, and any form of targeted abuse (both online and offline) is strictly prohibited. Offenders will face immediate account suspension.

Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Nudity:

·         Strict Enforcement: SOIN has a zero-tolerance for any content or behaviour that promotes or involves child exploitation or abuse. Such activities will be reported to law enforcement, and users involved will face permanent bans.

Suicide, Self-Harm, and Eating-Disorders:

·         Sensitive Topics: While SOIN promotes discussion around mental wellbeing, any content that glorifies, encourages, or instructs self-harm, suicide, or eating disorders will be removed. SOIN provides resources to help users facing such issues.

Human Exploitation:

·         Labour and Trafficking: Any content or activity that promotes human trafficking, forced labour, or modern slavery will be banned and reported to the appropriate authorities.

2.4.       Hate Speech Policy

 

Objective: To prevent and address the use of hate speech on SOIN, ensuring an inclusive environment for all users.

Definition:

·         Hate Speech: Any speech or content that directly attacks or incites violence against people based on race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability.

Consequences:

·         Immediate Action: Members engaging in hate speech will face immediate suspension or permanent bans depending on the severity of the violation.

Reporting Hate Speech:

·         Community Reports: Members are encouraged to report any content or individuals they believe are using hate speech, and SOIN will review and take action promptly.

2.5.       Violent and Graphic Content Policy

 

Objective: To protect users from exposure to graphic or violent content, ensuring SOIN remains a safe and welcoming platform.

Prohibited Content:

·         Graphic Violence: Posting images, videos, or descriptions of extreme violence, bodily harm, or death is strictly prohibited.

·         Depictions of Abuse: Any content showing or describing abuse (of individuals or animals) in a graphic manner will be removed immediately, and the user responsible may face account suspension or permanent banning.

·         Accidental Exposure: In cases where graphic content is posted inadvertently (e.g., sharing news stories that contain violence), the content must include a warning to prepare users for sensitive material.

Moderation and Review:

·         Automated Detection: SOIN employs automated detection tools that flag content containing violent or graphic material for review by human moderators.

·         Human Review: All flagged content is reviewed by SOIN’s moderation team to determine whether it violates the platform's policies. Depending on the severity, content may be removed, and the user could face disciplinary action.

Reporting Violations:

·         User Reporting: Users are encouraged to report any violent or graphic content they encounter on the platform. Reports will be handled promptly, with content removed and penalties issued if appropriate.

Exceptions:

·         Educational or Awareness Content: Graphic content may be allowed if its intent is to raise awareness or educate (e.g., discussions on public health, human rights abuses), but such content must be handled sensitively and include appropriate warnings.

2.6.       Integrity and Authenticity Policy

 

Objective: To ensure the integrity of the content on SOIN and protect members from misinformation, fraud, and false identities, while maintaining authenticity in memorialisation.

Misinformation:

·         False Information: Deliberately sharing false information, particularly around sensitive topics like health, politics, or safety, is prohibited. SOIN works with fact-checkers to verify content and prevent the spread of misinformation.

·         Corrective Actions: Posts deemed to be spreading misinformation will either be removed or labeled with warnings. Members spreading misinformation repeatedly may face account suspension or bans.

Memorialisation:

·         Account Memorialisation: SOIN allows the accounts of deceased users to be memorialised by family or close friends. A memorialised account allows users to remember the individual while preventing changes or new activity.

·         Requesting Memorialisation: To memorialise an account, the requester must provide verification of the individual's death (e.g., an obituary or death certificate) and their relationship to the deceased.

Profile Authenticity:

·         False Identities: Members are required to use their real names and authentic identities. Impersonating another person, organisation, or business is strictly prohibited.

·         Verification: SOIN may require users to verify their identity in cases of suspected impersonation or misuse. Verified profiles will carry a special designation to show their authenticity.

3.    Empowerment Through Connection

 

3.1.       Community Asset Policy

 

Purpose: This policy governs the use, sharing, and management of community assets on SOIN, including tool and equipment, spaces, and services that individuals, groups or businesses make available to their communities.

Scope: This policy applies to all individuals, groups, and businesses that create or share community assets on SOIN.

3.1.1.   Asset Creation and Listing:

·         Definition of Community Assets: Community assets may include physical equipment or tools (e.g., gardening tools), shared spaces (e.g., community rooms or venues), or services (e.g., volunteer assistance or transportation).

·         Listing Assets: All members can list community assets available for sharing. Listings must include a detailed description, terms of use, and any associated costs or conditions for borrowing.

·         Asset Availability: Using the SOIN’s asset booking functionality, marked as available or unavailable, with dates and times for when they can be accessed. While asset owners haven’t used the booking functionality, assets should be clearly marked as available or unavailable, with accurate dates and times for when they can be accessed.

3.1.2.   Asset Sharing Guidelines:

·         Responsibility for Assets: Members providing assets are responsible for maintaining the condition and safety of the items. Borrowers must agree to use the assets responsibly and return them in the same condition.

·         Liability: SOIN is not responsible for any damages, injuries, or losses that occur during the use of shared assets. Asset providers and users are encouraged to establish clear agreements to mitigate liability or take out any required insurance where necessary.

3.1.3.   Community Asset Exchange:

·         Reciprocal Sharing: SOIN encourages a reciprocal sharing model, where individuals, groups and businesses that benefit from using community assets also contribute by offering their own resources or services in return.

·         Sharing Across Hubs: Assets can be shared across different hubs, allowing members from various groups to benefit from resources they may not typically access.

3.1.4.   Consequences for Misuse:

·         Damage or Loss of Assets: SOIN is not responsible for any damages or loss of assets. Borrowers who damage or lose community assets may be held responsible for repair or replacement costs. Repeat offenders may be restricted from borrowing assets in the future.

·         Reporting Misuse: Members can report misuse of community assets to SOIN, which will investigate and take appropriate action, including warnings or suspension of accounts.

3.1.5.   Reviews and Ratings:

·         Review or rating process: Reviews and ratings play a crucial role in SOIN's community assets feature for both the asset owner and the borrower, as these builds trust and accountability, transparency, support asset management and increase engagement.

·         Reporting review or rating disputes: Resolving reviews and rating disputes on SOIN is crucial to maintain trust and fairness within the platform. and ratings play a crucial role in SOIN's community assets feature for both the asset owner and the borrower, as these builds trust and accountability, transparency, support asset management and increase engagement.

3.1.6.   How to raise a review or ratings dispute:

1. Initial Dispute Notification:

·         Either the asset owner or the borrower can flag a review or rating for dispute using the “Report Dispute” option on the review or rating, available to both parties. Both parties must raise the dispute within a 14-day period after the review or rating.

2. Collection of Evidence:

·         Both the asset owner and borrower are required to submit any relevant information to support their case (e.g., screenshots, messages, or context of the interaction). If the dispute involves multiple users (e.g., a group or third party involved in the borrowing), their input can be requested. Once a dispute has been reported, asset owner and borrower have 48 hours to submit all necessary documentation.

3. Mediation Process:

·         A neutral SOIN support mediator reviews the submitted evidence from both parties. SOIN facilitates a conversation between the asset owner and borrower through the platform, giving them a chance to resolve the dispute independently. SOIN may provide options such as amending the review, updating the rating, or removing the feedback entirely if a mutual agreement is reached.

5. Formal Review by SOIN:

·         If no agreement is reached, SOIN's internal review team makes an impartial decision based on the evidence provided. The decision is based on pre-defined criteria such as platform guidelines, the nature of the asset exchange, communication records, and the reasonableness of the review/rating. This may result in review or rating may be upheld, modified, or removed entirely if found to violate platform policies.

6. Communication of the Decision:

·         Both the asset owner and borrower are notified of the resolution, including a brief explanation of the decision and any follow-up actions (e.g., changes to the review or penalties). The process remains transparent, with each party understanding the basis of the decision to maintain fairness.

7. Appeal Process:

·         If either party feels that the dispute was not fairly resolved, they have a right to appeal within 5 days of receiving the communication of decision made. Appeals are handled by a senior SOIN mediator or team, and the decision made during the appeal is final.

8. Consequences for Abuse of the Review System:

·         Action Against False Claims: If either party is found to be abusing the review or rating system (e.g., malicious or fake reviews), penalties can be enforced this may include warnings, suspension, or removal from the platform.

·         Reputation Score Impact: The outcome may affect the user's reputation score or standing within SOIN, influencing future borrowing or lending interactions.

3.1.7.   Why This Process is Important:

SOIN’s review and ratings systems strengthens members trust in SOIN's community asset feature and reinforces the platform’s emphasis on ethical and transparent interactions.

For the Asset Owner:

1.    Trust Building: Positive reviews and high ratings help establish the owner's credibility, showing that they are reliable, responsible, and maintain their assets well. This encourages more people to borrow from them.

2.    Asset Management: Feedback from borrowers can inform the owner of any wear and tear, maintenance needs, or improvements required for the asset. This helps the owner keep the asset in good condition, making it more appealing to future borrowers.

3.    Transparency: Ratings provide transparency regarding how the asset is treated. If borrowers frequently damage assets, it gives the owner valuable information on whether to continue lending to certain individuals or make changes to their lending terms.

4.    Increase Engagement: A well-reviewed owner is likely to see more engagement and requests from other community members. This fosters a sense of contribution and belonging, further encouraging participation in the platform.

For the Borrower:

1.    Asset Quality: Reviews help borrowers gauge the quality and usability of the asset before borrowing. This ensures they are getting something in good condition and fit for their needs.

2.    Trust and Accountability: Ratings of the borrower by the owner also foster a sense of responsibility. Borrowers who maintain high ratings are viewed as trustworthy, making it easier for them to access other assets in the community.

3.    Community Reputation: Borrowers with positive feedback enhance their reputation within the community. This could lead to more privileges, such as easier access to exclusive or high-demand assets, and even faster approval for borrowing in the future.

4.    Informed Decisions: Ratings and reviews from others can help borrowers make informed decisions on whether an asset is worth borrowing based on previous user experiences.

For the SOIN Community as a Whole:

1.    Accountability and Safety: Ratings and reviews create an environment of mutual accountability and trust, where both asset owners and borrowers feel safe participating in the sharing economy. It ensures that both parties feel their voices are heard and fosters a sense of accountability within the community.

2.    Enhanced User Experience: The feedback loop provided by reviews ensures a higher quality experience for everyone involved, encouraging continued usage and active engagement on the platform. By implementing a neutral, evidence-based resolution process, SOIN avoids bias and ensures fairness.

3.    Community Development: By relying on ratings, the community can see which assets or asset owners are highly valued, which in turn fosters a sense of collaboration and support within local communities. In addition, a clear dispute resolution process prevents misuse of the ratings system, thereby maintaining a healthy community built on trust and engagement.

3.2.       Membership Restrictions Policy

 

Purpose: This policy outlines restrictions on membership and participation within the SOIN platform to ensure a safe, respectful, and focused community.

Scope: This policy applies to all individuals, groups, and businesses seeking to join or participate in SOIN activities.

3.2.1.   Eligibility Criteria:

·         Age Restrictions: Members must be at least 18 years of age to join without parental consent. Users under 18 years of age must have parental approval or be accompanied by an adult to attend in any activity or events organised using the platform.

·         Eligibility: SOIN is open to individuals, groups, and businesses committed to fostering positive social inclusion.

·         Account Termination: Membership can be revoked for repeated policy violations or harmful behaviour.

·         Geographic Limitations: While SOIN evolves and becomes accessible globally, certain services and events may be restricted by location due to local laws or community standards.

3.2.2.   Prohibited Members:

·         Dangerous Individuals or Groups: SOIN reserves the right to restrict or ban individuals or groups associated with criminal activity, hate organisations, or other dangerous behaviours that conflict with SOIN’s mission.

·         Repeated Violators: Users who have repeatedly violated SOIN’s terms, policies, or community standards may face permanent bans.

3.2.3.   Group and Business Membership:

·         Group and Business Eligibility: Groups and Businesses that engage in unethical practices, mislead users, or violate SOIN’s standards for community impact will not be permitted to participate on the platform.

3.2.4.   Member Reinstatement:

Appeals Process: Members who are suspended or banned can appeal their status. SOIN will review appeals on a case-by-case basis, with a focus on rehabilitation and understanding.

4.    Ethical Engagement

 

4.1.       Guidance and Guidelines for Group and Business Admins and Moderators

 

Purpose: This policy provides guidelines for group and business admins and moderators on SOIN to ensure ethical, fair, and effective management of their groups and interactions on the platform.

Scope: This policy applies to all members who serve as admins or moderators for groups or business accounts on SOIN.

Roles and Responsibilities:

·         Admin and Moderator Permissions: Admins can assign roles to moderators but must regularly review permissions, while moderators must enforce community guidelines, and foster positive group engagement.

·         Admin vs. Moderator Roles: Admins are the primary leaders of the group or business, with the ability to create content, manage settings, and appoint moderators. Moderators assist admins by overseeing daily group activities, reviewing content, and resolving member disputes.

·         Approving Content: Admins and moderators are responsible for reviewing posts, resources, and events submitted by group members before they are shared on SOIN feed. Approval should be based on relevance, quality, and alignment with the group’s values and SOIN’s standards.

·         Engagement: Admins and moderators are expected to foster healthy, respectful, and inclusive dialogue within their groups or connections. They should encourage participation, create opportunities for offline engagement, and ensure that events and discussions align with the group’s goals.

Handling Violations:

·         Content Removal: Admins and moderators can remove posts that violate group or SOIN policies, such as inappropriate language, hate speech, or misinformation.

·         Member Management: Admins can remove or block members who consistently violate group rules or disrupt the community. Moderators can recommend such actions but may need admin approval to carry them out.

·         Conflict Resolution: Moderators are encouraged to resolve disputes between group members amicably, stepping in to mediate discussions or posts when necessary.

Best Practices:

·         Clear Communication: Set clear group guidelines for behaviour, participation, and content-sharing. This can be done through pinned posts or an introductory message for new members.

·         Respect and Inclusivity: Ensure that group discussions and events are welcoming to all members, including those from diverse backgrounds. Admins and moderators must intervene in instances of discrimination or harassment.

4.2.       Reporting Individuals, Groups, Events, Businesses, Posts, and Resources Policy

 

Purpose: To provide a structured process for reporting violations by individuals, groups, events, businesses, posts, or resources, ensuring the platform remains safe, ethical, and aligned with SOIN’s core values.

Scope: This policy applies to all reports submitted by SOIN members regarding content, behaviour, or activities they believe violate SOIN policies.

Types of Reports:

·         Individuals: Users can report other individuals for harassment, inappropriate behaviour, hate speech, threats, or other violations of SOIN’s safety and community guidelines.

·         Groups: Groups that promote harmful ideologies, violence, or engage in unethical practices can be reported for review.

·         Events: In-person or virtual events can be reported if they are unsafe, discriminatory, or violate any local or platform-wide regulations.

·         Businesses: Businesses that engage in deceptive practices, fraud, or violate SOIN’s ethical standards can be reported for investigation.

·         Posts and Resources: Any content, such as posts or shared resources, that is offensive, harmful, or infringes on IP rights can be flagged for review.

How to Report:

·         Reporting Mechanism: Members can access the report feature from a drop-down menu on the offending content or profile. Reports must include specific details about the violation and why it is being reported.

·         Evidence Submission: Members should include evidence, such as screenshots, links, or descriptions, that support their claim.

SOIN's Response Process:

·         Moderation Team Review: Reports will be reviewed by SOIN’s moderation team within 48 hours. High-priority cases, such as threats or harmful behaviour, will be addressed immediately.

·         Action Taken: Depending on the severity, actions may range from content removal to suspension or termination of the offending account, group, or business.

·         Repeat Violations: Users, groups, or businesses that are repeatedly reported and found in violation may face permanent suspension from the platform.

4.3.       Prohibited Group and Event Practices Policy

 

Objective: To maintain a positive, inclusive, and secure environment on the SOIN platform by outlining prohibited activities for groups, events, and their organisers.

Scope: This policy applies to all group creators, admins, moderators, event organisers, and attendees on SOIN. It is designed to protect the integrity of groups and events and foster healthy interactions among members.

1. Misrepresentation and Fraudulent Behaviour

·         Impersonation of Groups or Organisations: Groups that falsely claim to represent certain organisations or mislead members about their identity are prohibited.

·         False or Misleading Event Information: Event organisers must accurately represent the event, including location, time, purpose, and potential costs. Misleading or deceptive event listings or intentionally misleading attendees will result in event listings being removed and/or account suspension and organisers may face penalties.

·         Donation and Fundraising Fraud: Groups and events requesting donations must clearly communicate how the funds will be used. Fraudulent or deceptive fundraising is strictly prohibited.

2. Inappropriate Content or Activities

·         Prohibited Event Themes: Events promoting hate speech, violence, or harmful behaviours, including but not limited to illegal gatherings or those that advocate hate, bigotry, or intolerance, are not allowed on SOIN.

·         Discriminatory Practices: Events or groups that exclude individuals based on race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or other protected characteristics are strictly forbidden. Also, groups and businesses that promote hate, discrimination, or violence towards individuals or groups based on race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or other protected attributes will be banned.

·         Illegal Activities: Groups, businesses or events that involve or promote illegal activities are strictly prohibited. This includes the sale or use of illicit substances, trafficking, unauthorised weapons, or promoting any unlawful behaviour.

3. Exploitative or Harmful Practices

·         Exploitation of Vulnerable Groups: Groups or events that aim to exploit vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly, minors, or people with disabilities, will be banned from the platform. In addition, groups engaging in exploitative practices (e.g., forced labor, human trafficking, or financial scams) will be immediately removed, and the admins may face legal consequences.

·         Excessive Pressure on Attendees: Events that involve coercion or pressure on attendees for purchases, services, or other forms of participation beyond reasonable expectation are not allowed.

4. Event Safety Non-Compliance

·         Failure to Implement Safety Protocols: Organisers are required to ensure that physical events follow local laws, public health regulations, and safety protocols. Any negligence regarding the health, safety, and wellbeing of attendees will lead to the group or event’s removal.

·         Underage Attendance: Events marketed as age-appropriate must ensure that attendees meet age requirements. Events that fail to comply with age restrictions will be removed, and the event organiser may face penalties.

5. Unauthorised Commercial Practices

·         Unlicensed Services: Groups and events offering services that require professional licensing (e.g., legal advice, medical procedures) without the appropriate credentials are strictly prohibited.

·         Unauthorised Sales of Goods: Commercial events that involve the sale of goods or services must be transparent about the business involved. Unauthorised sales or the promotion of counterfeit products is banned.

6. Accountability for Admins and Organisers:

·         Admin Responsibility: Group admins and event organisers are responsible for ensuring that their groups and events adhere to SOIN’s policies. Repeated violations may result in loss of admin privileges and removal of the group or event from the platform.

·         Organiser Accountability: Event organisers must take reasonable precautions to ensure the safety and legality of their events. Failure to do so may result in penalties, including account suspension or permanent bans.

7. Reporting Violations

·         Users, event attendees, or group members who suspect that a group or event violates these policies are encouraged to report such activities to SOIN for further investigation.

8. Enforcement:

·         SOIN will investigate violations of this policy and take necessary actions, which may include content removal, group or event shutdown, and permanent account suspension of the individuals responsible.

5.    Community-Driven Collaboration

 

5.1.       SOIN Content Policies

 

SOIN Reporting Third-Party Posts and Content Policy

Purpose: This policy outlines how members can report inappropriate, harmful, or infringing third-party posts and content on SOIN and how SOIN handles these reports to maintain a safe and respectful platform.

Scope: This policy applies to all SOIN members, including individuals, groups, and businesses, who interact with or are exposed to third-party content.

Types of Reportable Content:

·         Misinformation and False Claims: Content that spreads false information or misleads the community about health, safety, or social issues.

·         Inappropriate Content: Posts or comments that violate SOIN’s community standards, such as hate speech, explicit content, harassment, or threats.

·         Infringing Content: Content that infringes intellectual property, such as copyright material or trade marks without permission.

·         Violence or Harm: Content that encourages or glorifies violence, self-harm, or harm to others.

How to Report Content:

·         Reporting Mechanism: Each post, comment, or resource on SOIN have an easily accessible reporting button, allowing members to flag content for review.

·         Details Required: When reporting content, members should provide as much detail as possible, including why the content is being reported, any contextual information, and links to the infringing content.

Review Process:

·         Content Review: SOIN’s moderation team will review all reported content. Depending on the severity of the report, this process may take up to 48 hours. High-priority reports, such as those involving violence or harm, will be expedited.

·         Action Taken: If the content is found to violate SOIN policies, actions may include content removal, account suspension, or a ban for the individual, group or business responsible.

Appeals:

·         Appealing Decisions: Users who believe their content was incorrectly removed or who have had their account penalised can submit an appeal. SOIN will review appeals and provide a final decision.

Transparency and Accountability:

·         Notification: Members will be notified of the status of their report, including any actions taken. Repeat offenders may face escalated consequences, including permanent bans.

5.2.       SOIN Intellectual Property Rights Policy

 

Purpose: To protect the intellectual property (IP) rights of all members and third-party entities on the SOIN platform, while providing clear guidelines on how users can share, report, and resolve intellectual property-related issues.

Scope: This policy applies to all content uploaded, shared, or posted on SOIN, including text, images, videos, audio, and other digital media.

Content Ownership:

·         Member-Generated Content: Members retain ownership of any original content they create and share on SOIN. By posting content, members grant SOIN a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to display, distribute, and share their content within the platform.

·         Third-Party Content: Members must have the appropriate rights or permission to post third-party content (e.g., photos, articles, music). Posting copyrighted material without permission is a violation of this policy.

Copyright and Trade mark Infringement:

·         Infringement Reporting: If you believe your intellectual property rights have been violated, you can submit a formal report to SOIN’s IP enforcement team. Reports should include details of the infringement, such as the type of IP (copyright, trade mark, etc.), a link to the infringing content, and proof of ownership.

·         Takedown Process: Upon receiving a valid IP infringement report, SOIN will review the claim and take action within 48 hours. This may include removing the infringing content and notifying the user responsible for posting it.

·         Repeat Infringers: Members who repeatedly post infringing content may have their accounts suspended or permanently banned.

Disputes and Appeals:

·         Counterclaims: Members who believe their content was removed unfairly can file a counterclaim. SOIN will review the counterclaim and, if valid, reinstate the content.

Respecting Others' IP:

·         No Unauthorised Use: Members are prohibited from using SOIN’s branding, logo, or other IP without explicit permission. Additionally, members should respect the rights of others by not copying, altering, or misusing their content.

5.3.       SOIN Advertiser and Sponsorship Policy

 

Purpose: This policy establishes guidelines for individuals, groups and businesses who wish to advertise or sponsor content on SOIN, ensuring that all advertising aligns with SOIN’s values of community, inclusivity, and ethical behaviour.

Scope: This policy applies to all advertisements, sponsorships, and content posted or promoted on SOIN by individuals, groups and businesses.

Ad Content Standards:

·         Relevance and Integrity: Ads must be relevant to the SOIN community and aligned with SOIN’s values. They must not promote products, services, or ideologies that conflict with SOIN’s mission, such as harmful substances, fraudulent schemes, or discriminatory practices.

·         Transparency: Sponsored content or ads must be clearly identified as such. SOIN requires advertisers to disclose when they are being compensated for promoting a product or service.

·         Prohibited Ads: SOIN does not allow ads that promote illegal activities, pornography, hate speech, violent content, or any form of discrimination. Ads for gambling, weapons, or unproven medical treatments are also prohibited.

Sponsorships:

·         Event Sponsorship: Businesses or groups may sponsor events on SOIN, provided the event and sponsorship align with the platform’s ethical standards. Sponsors must not interfere with the event's content or purpose in a way that contradicts SOIN's core values.

·         Sponsored Content: Members who post sponsored content must disclose the sponsorship in a clear, visible manner to ensure transparency with the audience.

Review and Approval Process:

·         Ad Review: All ads and sponsorships are subject to review by SOIN’s advertising team before being approved. The review process ensures that all content meets the platform's standards for quality and ethical integrity.

·         Denial and Removal: SOIN reserves the right to deny or remove any ads or sponsored content that violates these policies, even after approval.

5.4.       SOIN Payment and Refund Policy

 

Purpose: To establish a clear framework for handling payments and refunds on SOIN, particularly for events, sponsored content, and other paid services offered on the platform.

Scope: This policy applies to all individuals, businesses, and groups involved in paid transactions on SOIN, whether they are paying for services or receiving payments through the platform.

Payment Terms:

·         Payment Methods: SOIN accepts standard payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and secure online payment processors (e.g., PayPal). Members are responsible for ensuring their payment information is accurate and up-to-date.

·         Transaction Fees: Certain services, such as community assets, event registrations or business advertisements, may be subject to transaction fees. SOIN will clearly disclose these fees before any payment is made.

Refunds:

·         Event Refunds: For events hosted on SOIN, refund policies will be set by the event organiser. SOIN recommends that organisers establish clear refund policies and make them available to attendees during registration.

·         Refund Requests: If members experience issues with a service or event, they can request a refund by contacting the organiser or SOIN’s support team. Refunds are issued at SOIN’s or the organiser's discretion, depending on the specific circumstances.

·         No Refund Policy for Certain Services: Some services, such as sponsorships or ads that have already been delivered, may be non-refundable.

Dispute Resolution:

Payment Disputes: In the event of a dispute over a payment, users can contact SOIN’s support team for assistance. SOIN will work to mediate the dispute between the parties involved and provide a fair resolution.

Updates to Guidelines

·         Periodic Review: These Community Guidelines will be reviewed regularly to ensure they remain relevant and effective in maintaining a positive environment on SOIN. Changes to the guidelines will be communicated to the community.

·         User Feedback: SOIN values user feedback and may invite community members to provide input on the guidelines. This collaborative approach helps ensure that the guidelines reflect the needs and values of the community.

Contact Information

For questions or concerns about these Values and Community Guidelines or to report violations, please contact:

Community Support Team Email:  info@soinconnect.com
Address: Piccadilly Business Centre, Unit C Aldow Enterprise Park, Manchester, M12 6AE.