Purpose

Our WhatsApp groups exist to support communication within the club. These groups are for sharing relevant information, organising activities, and fostering a positive and respectful community. This policy applies to all official club WhatsApp groups.

Agreement

By joining and using any official Bristol Exploration Club WhatsApp group, you agree to follow this policy. Failure to comply may result in removal from the group and, if serious or persistent, may be treated as a breach of club rules and byelaws.

✅ Acceptable Use

• Keep messages relevant to the group’s purpose.
• Be respectful: Treat others as you’d like to be treated. No offensive, aggressive, or inappropriate language.
• Use clear communication: Avoid sarcasm or vague comments that could be misunderstood.
• Personal matters should be taken to private messages — not aired in the group.
• Photos and videos should be relevant, appropriate, and not excessive.
• Event planning: Use the group to organise club events, trips, or meetings with clarity

🚫 Unacceptable Use

We operate a zero-tolerance policy.

• Off-topic chatter: This clutters the group and drowns important info.
• Spam: No chain messages, memes, promotions, or unrelated forwards.
• Sensitive topics: Avoid politics, religion, or other divisive discussions.
• Bullying, harassment, or discrimination.
• Sharing private messages without permission.
• Naming or shaming individuals or groups.

👮‍♀️ Admin Roles

• Admins will remind members of the rules if necessary.
• Persistent or serious breaches may result in removal from the group.
• Admins may temporarily restrict messaging if discussions become heated or off-topic.

📌 General Etiquette

• Mute notifications if you don’t want to be disturbed — don’t ask others to “stop messaging.”
• Don’t expect instant replies — members are volunteers with busy lives.
• Use emojis and humour carefully — tone doesn’t always translate well in text.
• Avoid accidentally pressing the group call button. If a call is needed, agree in the chat first.

📎 Group Types

We may have several types of groups:

• Announcements only (admin-only)
• General discussion
• Event-specific groups
• Sub-group chats (e.g., for committees, teams, working groups)

Each may have different expectations — admins will set the tone and clarify.

👥 Membership Requirements

• All users must be paid-up members of the Club.
• Anyone whose membership lapses will be removed from the group.
• Your WhatsApp name should be recognisable — life’s too short to hide behind handles.
• All users will be moderated for access by the group’s admins.

🤝 Final Notes

We’re all here to enjoy and support the club. Let’s keep WhatsApp groups useful, welcoming, and fun. If you have concerns, contact a group admin or committee member privately.