Policies & Guidelines

1. Introduction

Friendly Minds is a community-led, peer-to-peer platform designed to provide a safe space for conversation and connection. We are committed to promoting the safety and wellbeing of all users. While we are not a professional or clinical service, we recognise the importance of acting responsibly where concerns arise.

2. Nature of the Service

Friendly Minds is a peer-to-peer support platform.

• We do not provide medical, therapeutic, or professional advice
• We are not a crisis or emergency service
• Our platform is designed to offer a space for conversation, listening, and general support

Users should not rely on Friendly Minds for urgent or emergency situations.

3. Our Safeguarding Approach (FRIENDLY)

Our approach is guided by the following principles:

4. Safeguarding Awareness

While Friendly Minds is not a crisis service, we recognise that users may sometimes share experiences or feelings that raise concern. We take such situations seriously and aim to respond in a way that is responsible and appropriate to the nature of our platform.

5. Responding to Concerns

Where concerns arise, Friendly Minds has internal processes in place to respond appropriately.

This may include:

• Encouraging users to seek appropriate external support
• Taking steps to maintain a safe environment
• Reviewing and addressing interactions where necessary

6. Confidentiality

Friendly Minds aims to respect user privacy and minimise data collection. However, there may be situations where confidentiality is limited, particularly where there are concerns about safety or wellbeing.

7. Platform Boundaries

Friendly Minds operates within clearly defined boundaries:

• We do not provide crisis intervention
• We do not offer professional or clinical advice
• We cannot guarantee immediate responses

Users are encouraged to seek appropriate professional or emergency support where needed.

8. Review of Policy

This policy is reviewed and updated as Friendly Minds develops, to ensure it remains appropriate, effective, and aligned with best practices.

Last Review Date: 08/04/2026

1. Purpose of This Document

This document outlines the approach taken by Friendly Minds to the collection, use, and limitation of personal data. Our aim is to operate in a way that is respectful of privacy, proportionate to our activities, and compliant with data protection principles, including those set out under the UK GDPR.

Friendly Minds is a peer-to-peer support initiative and does not provide professional, medical, or crisis services. As such, we intentionally minimise the personal data we collect.

2. Core Principles

• We collect only what is necessary
• We avoid collecting sensitive or identifiable information wherever possible
• We limit access to personal data
• We do not retain data longer than required
• We prioritise anonymity and privacy for users

3. Data We Do Not Collect From Users

Friendly Minds does not intentionally collect or request the following user data:

• Identity Information: Full legal name, date of birth, home address, phone number, or government-issued ID.
• Sensitive Personal Data: Medical records, mental health diagnoses, medication information, or therapy history.
• Location Data: Precise address, school/workplace details, or real-time tracking.
• Persistent Records: Case files, long-term chat transcripts, user profiles, or recordings.

4. Limited Data Processing

The following minimal data may be processed automatically for technical or security purposes:

• Anonymous live chat session data
• IP address and general location (e.g., country) collected by third-party tools
• Temporary system logs necessary for service functionality

5. Staff & Volunteers

Friendly Minds does not request home addresses, NI numbers, passport copies, or bank details from volunteers. We collect only what is necessary to operate safely (Legal name, org email, role title, and age eligibility verification).

Welcome to Friendly Minds. These Terms of Service ("Terms") govern the utilization of our platform and services provided by Friendly Minds ("Organization"). Your active engagement signifies your informed comprehension and acceptance of these Terms.

1. Nature of Our Services

Friendly Minds facilitates compassionate conversations between users and non-professional support staff. Our objective is to extend emotional support and encouragement; we do not substitute professional counseling, therapy, or medical advice.

2. Eligibility

• You must be at least 13 years old.
• You should possess the legal capacity to enter agreements and consent to these Terms.

3. User Responsibilities

• Provide accurate and truthful information during interactions.
• Uphold the privacy and confidentiality of our support staff and fellow users.
• Prohibit usage for any illegal or harmful activities.

4. Limitations of Liability

Friendly Minds and its dedicated support staff assume no liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, or consequential damages. The organization disclaims responsibility for user actions or statements during interactions.

To ensure a safe and respectful environment for all, we have established the following guidelines:

Respect and Empathy

Treat every member with kindness, compassion, and respect. We value diverse opinions and understand that everyone's experiences with mental health are unique.

Privacy and Confidentiality

Maintain confidentiality and respect the privacy of others. Do not share any personal information without explicit consent.

Reporting Behavior

If you witness any behaviour that violates these guidelines, report it immediately to our moderation team.

Trigger Warnings

Be mindful of potential triggers and sensitive topics when sharing in common areas.