Safeguarding, Communication & Conduct Policy

2. WHO THIS POLICY APPLIES TO

This policy applies to all users, including:

• Pastors and church leaders
• Campus fellowship leaders
• Parents and guardians
• Students and travelers
• Platform administrators
• Institutional partners

Use of the platform constitutes acceptance of this policy.

3. CORE SAFEGUARDING PRINCIPLES

Diaspora Shepherd™ is governed by the following principles:

• •
  Consent First – No connection without explicit permission
• •
  Safety Over Speed – Protection outweighs convenience
• •
  Minimal Exposure – Only necessary data is shared
• •
  No Surveillance – The platform does not monitor spirituality
• •
  Restorative Discipline – Correction aims at restoration, not punishment
• •
  Autonomy Preserved – Students are not controlled or tracked

4. COMMUNICATION CHANNELS & RULES

4.1 Allowed Communication Types

The platform supports:

• In-app text messaging
• Voice calls (VoIP)
• Video calls
• File uploads (documents, letters, references)

All communication must be:

• Context-based (linked to a follow-up request)
• Between verified users only
• Professional, respectful, and purpose-driven

4.2 Consent to Communication Logging

By using Diaspora Shepherd™, users consent that:

• Communication metadata (timestamps, participants, type) may be logged
• Message content is private by default
• Content may only be reviewed if:
  • A report is submitted
  • A safety concern arises
  • Legal or safeguarding review is required

4.3 Communication Boundaries

5. STUDENT & TRAVELER PROTECTION

6. REPORTS, SAFETY & DISPUTE RESOLUTION

6.1 Reportable Issues

Users may report:

• Safety concerns
• Abuse or harassment
• Boundary violations
• Inappropriate communication
• Identity misrepresentation
• Any behavior causing discomfort or risk

6.2 How to Report

Reports may be submitted:

• In-app
• With optional evidence (messages, files, call metadata)
• Anonymously (visible only to admins)

6.3 Review & Resolution Process

1. Report received
2. Risk assessment performed
3. Temporary restrictions applied if necessary
4. Admin review
5. Resolution outcome:
   • Warning
   • Mediation
   • Suspension
   • Permanent removal
   • Referral to church authority (when appropriate)

Safety concerns are treated with urgency and discretion.

7. ADMIN RESPONSIBILITIES & LIMITS

8. DATA PRIVACY & RETENTION

• Data is minimized by design
• Only essential information is stored
• Users may request data deletion
• Inactive follow-up records auto-expire
• Backups are encrypted and access-restricted
• Diaspora Shepherd™ does not sell or share data

9. INTER-CITY, INTERSTATE & INTERNATIONAL COVERAGE

This policy applies equally to:

• Inter-city relocations
• Interstate relocations
• International relocations

Safeguarding standards do not change based on distance.

10. VIOLATIONS & ENFORCEMENT

Violations of this policy may result in:

• Temporary suspension
• Permanent account removal
• Loss of verification
• Platform-wide bans (for severe abuse)

Decisions are:

• Documented
• Reviewed
• Appeal-eligible where appropriate

11. LIMITATION OF PLATFORM ROLE