Social Media Policy

Social Media Policy for the Equine Podiatry Association (UK)

Issue: 2.0
Last updated: 30th December 2022

These Rules are made in accordance with the Articles of Association and relate to the use of social media by members.

The Equine Podiatry Association UK (EPA) uses social media in its business and recognises that Members may also use social media either as part of their business or in their private lives.

The purpose of this policy is to set out what The EPA expects from its members when using social media. It is important to remember that all members are ambassadors for the Association and that social media is never private.

This policy applies to all members and aims to:

  • give clear guidelines on what Members can say about the organisation;
  • comply with relevant legislation and protect members and clients;
  • protect The EPA against liability for the actions of its members;
  • explain how problems with inappropriate use will be addressed.

The Association recognises that the internet provides unique opportunities to participate in interactive discussions and share information on particular topics relevant to its work using a wide variety of social media, such as Facebook, Twitter, blogs and wikis. Inappropriate use of social media can pose risks to the Association’s confidential and proprietary information and reputation, and can jeopardise the Association’s compliance with legal obligations.

The Association wants members to help protect its reputation. Members must not post disparaging or defamatory statements about:

  1. The Equine Podiatry Association
  2. The Equine Podiatry Association Council, Students or Members past or present;
  3. Suppliers and vendors;
  4. Clients and Customers;
  5. Other affiliates and stakeholders (e.g. Veterinary practitioner, Farrier etc.)

Members should avoid social communications that might be misconstrued in a way that could damage the Association’s business reputation, even indirectly. Members are personally responsible for what they communicate in social media. Remember that what you publish might be available to be read by the masses including EPA colleagues, future employers and social acquaintances for a long time. Keep this in mind before you post content.

Consent must be obtained from clients prior to posting images or text of them or their horse which may be used on social media.

Remember that you must respect confidentiality at all times and protect confidential information. You should be mindful of Data Protection law.