The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) has published guidance which explains how to use social media in a way which meets the body's standards.
It is divided into four sections which includes top tips and using social media in line with HCPC standards. It also features case studies
Some of the top tips are:
- Think before you post. Assume that what you post could be shared and read by anyone.
- Think about who can see what you share and manage your privacy settings accordingly. Remember that privacy settings cannot guarantee that something you post will not be publicly visible.
- Maintain appropriate professional boundaries if you communicate with colleagues, service users or carers.
- Do not post information which could identify a service user unless you have their permission.
HCPC director of policy and standards Michael Guthrie said, “The vast majority of registrants who use social media already do so responsibly and without any difficulties at all.
"However, we know that registrants sometimes have questions or concerns about using social media."
The Society has its own SoMe guidance for members and for SCoR groups.
The HCPC will be holding a tweetchat focusing on the new guidance from 6.30pm on Tuesday,12 September. Join in by following @The_HCPC and using the hashtag #my_guidance.