Effective Date: 18 October 2023
Section 1: Welcome to Neighbourly!
Section 2: Acceptable Behaviour
Section 3: Reporting Incidents and Suspicious Activity
Section 4: Responsible Communication
Section 5: Privacy and Security
Section 6: Legal Compliance and Governing Law
Section 7: Unacceptable Behaviour
Section 8: Transparency and Accountability
Section 9: Conclusion
At Neighbourly, our mission is to create a happier and safer place for all members of our community. We firmly believe that when neighbours come together online, we can build strong, supportive, and thriving neighbourhoods. To achieve this goal, we have established these comprehensive Community Guidelines. These guidelines are designed to ensure a positive and respectful experience for everyone on Neighbourly.
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Mission Neighbourly's mission is to foster a sense of belonging, promote community safety, and encourage positive interactions within neighbourhoods, both online and offline. |
Motto "United We Prosper" is our motto. We believe that when neighbours come together, we can achieve great things and create a brighter future for our communities. |
The Power of Community Before we delve into the specifics of our Community Guidelines, let's take a moment to acknowledge the incredible power of community:
In the next sections of these guidelines, we will outline the specific behaviours and expectations that help us maintain the positive and respectful environment we envision for Neighbourly. Each section will provide detailed insights into how our community members can contribute to making Neighbourly a place where neighbours unite, prosper, and thrive together.
1. Be Kind and Respectful: Treat all neighbours, including law enforcement, security personnel, businesses, and government officials, with kindness and respect. Our community thrives when everyone feels valued.
Neighbourly is a platform where respectful and considerate behaviour is not just encouraged but expected. Every neighbour, regardless of their role or background, deserves to be treated with courtesy. In the spirit of our mission, we aim to create an environment where all individuals feel acknowledged, appreciated, and respected.
Kindness can manifest in various ways, from offering a friendly greeting to being patient with someone who may have different viewpoints. It's about recognizing the humanity in each of our neighbours and showing empathy and understanding.
By being kind and respectful, we can foster a sense of belonging, where everyone feels they have a place in our community. It's the foundation upon which we build trust and positive relationships.
2. Inclusivity: Embrace diversity and different perspectives. Discrimination, hate speech, or exclusionary behavior will not be tolerated.
Diversity is one of the strengths of our communities. It brings together people with different backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences, enriching our lives and broadening our horizons. Neighbourly values and celebrates this diversity.
Inclusivity means ensuring that every neighbour, regardless of their background, feels welcome and heard. It's about acknowledging that our differences make us stronger. By embracing diverse perspectives, we open ourselves up to new ideas, solutions, and possibilities.
Discrimination and hate speech have no place on Neighbourly. We do not tolerate any behavior that targets individuals or groups based on factors such as race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or any other characteristic. Discriminatory comments or actions can cause harm, not only to the individuals targeted but to the entire community.
Our commitment to inclusivity means that we actively work to create an environment where all neighbours can participate, express themselves, and feel valued. It's a commitment to respect and celebrate the unique qualities that each neighbour brings to our community.
3. Cultural Sensitivity: Respect cultural differences and traditions. What may be acceptable in one culture might not be in another.
Neighbourly is a global community, and as such, we embrace a rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and customs. Cultural sensitivity is a vital aspect of creating a harmonious and respectful environment for all.
Cultural differences can include language, religious practices, dietary choices, clothing, and celebrations. It's essential to approach these differences with curiosity, respect, and an open mind. What may be considered normal or acceptable in one culture may be quite different in another.
At Neighbourly, we encourage neighbours to learn from each other, share their cultural experiences, and celebrate diversity. It's an opportunity to expand our horizons and gain a deeper appreciation for the world's many cultures.
However, it's also important to exercise cultural sensitivity. This means being mindful of potential cultural misunderstandings and avoiding actions or statements that could unintentionally cause offense. If you're unsure about a cultural practice or tradition, it's perfectly acceptable to ask questions respectfully.
Ultimately, cultural sensitivity is about fostering an environment where every neighbour's culture and traditions are respected and celebrated, contributing to a richer and more inclusive community.
4. Empathy: Practise empathy and understanding. Try to see situations from others' perspectives and respond with compassion.
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. It's a fundamental aspect of being a good neighbour. Empathy allows us to connect on a deeper level, offering support and understanding during challenging times and celebrating together during moments of joy.
In the context of Neighbourly, practising empathy means taking the time to consider how others may be feeling and responding with kindness and compassion. It involves active listening, putting ourselves in others' shoes, and offering support when needed.
Empathy extends to a variety of situations, from comforting a neighbour who has experienced a loss to understanding the challenges faced by local businesses. It's a powerful tool for building connections and fostering a sense of community.
While we may not always agree with our neighbours' viewpoints or actions, empathy allows us to engage in constructive and respectful conversations. It helps us bridge differences and find common ground.
By embracing empathy as a core value, we contribute to a culture of understanding and support on Neighbourly. It reinforces the idea that we are all in this together, and our collective empathy can create a positive and compassionate community.
In the next section, we will continue to explore the expectations and behaviours that contribute to a welcoming and respectful community on Neighbourly.
5. Reporting Incidents: If you witness an incident or need assistance, use the appropriate channels, such as crime and incidents channels or alerts channels, to report it. We encourage neighbours to look out for one another.
Neighbourly is more than just a platform for connecting with neighbours; it's a tool for keeping our communities safe and informed. Reporting incidents is a critical aspect of this safety net, and it relies on the vigilance and proactive involvement of our neighbours.
Incidents can range from accidents and emergencies to suspicious activities and concerns about safety. Neighbours are encouraged to use the reporting features provided by Neighbourly to alert the community and relevant authorities about any incident that requires attention.
Reporting incidents promptly ensures that appropriate action can be taken swiftly. It might involve notifying the local police, emergency services, or other relevant agencies. In emergencies, every second counts, and your quick reporting can make a significant difference.
Neighbours are encouraged to provide as many details as possible when reporting incidents. This information helps responders understand the situation fully and respond effectively. Details such as location, time, and a description of the incident can be crucial.
Additionally, when reporting incidents, it's essential to remain calm and focused. Clear and accurate information is valuable, and emotional reactions can hinder effective communication. Neighbourly provides channels dedicated to specific types of incidents, such as crime and incidents channels, to streamline the reporting process.
6. Suspicious Activity: Report any suspicious behaviour promptly. Safety is our priority, and your vigilance can help prevent incidents.
Suspicious activity can manifest in various forms, from individuals loitering in the neighbourhood without a clear purpose to unusual behaviour that raises concerns. Neighbourly encourages all neighbours to be vigilant and proactive in reporting any suspicious activity they observe.
The reporting of suspicious activity is an essential tool in crime prevention. Neighbours serve as the eyes and ears of the community, helping to identify potential threats and concerns. By reporting suspicious behaviour, you contribute to the overall safety and security of your neighbourhood.
It's important to remember that not all suspicious behaviour is criminal. However, when something appears out of the ordinary or causes concern, it's better to report it and let law enforcement or relevant authorities assess the situation.
Reporting suspicious activity should be done promptly and through the appropriate channels. Neighbourly provides features like alerts channels, which are ideal for sharing information about unusual or suspicious events. Timely reporting can help prevent incidents and ensure a rapid response if needed.
7. Community Watch: Participate in community watch efforts, if available in your area. Be a responsible member of your neighbourhood by keeping an eye out for unusual activities.
Community watch programs are an excellent way for neighbours to work together in enhancing the safety and security of their neighbourhoods. These programs typically involve neighbours volunteering their time and attention to keep an eye out for suspicious or unusual activities.
Participating in a community watch effort can be a highly effective way to deter criminal activity and maintain a sense of safety within your neighbourhood. By being vigilant and actively involved, you contribute to the overall security and wellbeing of your community.
If your neighbourhood has a community watch program in place, consider joining and becoming an active member. If not, you can also take on a vigilant role as an individual neighbour. Simple actions like reporting unusual behaviour, keeping an eye on vacant properties, or being aware of your surroundings can make a significant difference.
Remember that community watch efforts should always operate within the boundaries of the law and respect individuals' privacy. It's about promoting safety, not engaging in vigilante activities. If you are uncertain about your role in a community watch program, consult with local law enforcement or community leaders for guidance
In the next section, we will explore the principles of responsible communication and how they contribute to a positive and respectful environment on Neighbourly.
8. Clear and Honest Communication: Be truthful and transparent in your interactions. Misleading information or fraudulent activities will not be tolerated.
Effective communication is the cornerstone of any healthy community. Neighbourly encourages neighbours to engage in clear and honest communication with one another. Honesty and transparency build trust and ensure that information exchanged within the community is reliable and accurate.
Clear communication involves expressing your thoughts, ideas, and intentions in a way that is easily understood by others. It means being concise, using language that is inclusive and respectful, and ensuring that your message conveys your intended meaning.
Honesty is a fundamental value on Neighbourly. We expect all neighbours to be truthful in their interactions and to represent themselves and their intentions accurately. Misleading information, impersonation, or fraudulent activities are strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated.
Responsible communication also extends to the sharing of information and news within the community. It's essential to verify the accuracy of information before sharing it. Misinformation and the spread of false information can cause confusion, harm reputations, and even lead to panic. Neighbours should exercise caution and critical thinking when consuming and sharing news and information.
By practising clear and honest communication, we create a foundation of trust within our community. Neighbours can rely on the information shared on Neighbourly, knowing that it is accurate and truthful. This trust enhances the effectiveness of our community in various ways, from organising events to responding to emergencies.
9. Responsible Posting: When posting on Neighbourly, ensure your content is accurate, appropriate for all audiences, and adheres to our guidelines.
Posting on Neighbourly is an opportunity to share information, express opinions, and engage with your neighbours. However, with this privilege comes responsibility. Responsible posting ensures that the content shared on Neighbourly contributes positively to the community and adheres to our guidelines.
Responsible posting involves several key principles:
By practising responsible posting, you contribute to a positive and respectful online environment where neighbours can engage in meaningful discussions, share valuable information, and build connections.
Avoid Gossip: Refrain from spreading rumours or unsubstantiated information that can harm individuals or businesses.
Gossip is the spreading of rumours or unverified information about individuals or businesses. It can be harmful, damaging reputations and causing unnecessary stress and anxiety. On Neighbourly, we discourage and prohibit gossip as it goes against our principles of responsible communication and respectful behaviour.
Gossip can take various forms, from false accusations to baseless speculation about a person's personal life or a business's practices. It often lacks credible evidence and can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts within the community.
To maintain a positive and respectful environment on Neighbourly, it's essential to refrain from participating in or perpetuating gossip. If you have concerns or information about a specific incident or individual, we encourage you to report it through the appropriate channels, such as crime and incidents channels or alerts channels. These channels are designed to handle situations that require attention or investigation, ensuring that information is handled responsibly and accurately.
Responsible communication means choosing not to engage in gossip and instead relying on verified information and official channels to address concerns or issues within the community. By doing so, you contribute to a more transparent and trustworthy environment on Neighbourly.
In the next section, we will explore the principles of privacy and security and how they apply to our online community.
Respect Privacy: Respect the privacy of others. Do not share personal information without consent.
Privacy is a fundamental right, both in the physical world and the digital realm. Respecting the privacy of others is a core value on Neighbourly, and it's essential to create a safe and trustworthy environment.
Respecting privacy means not sharing personal or sensitive information about others without their explicit consent. This includes details such as full names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and any other information that can identify an individual.
While Neighbourly encourages connecting with your neighbours and building relationships, it's important to respect boundaries and understand that not everyone may be comfortable sharing certain information. Always ask for permission before sharing someone else's personal information, even if it seems harmless.
Additionally, respecting privacy extends to respecting the boundaries of personal spaces, both physical and digital. Do not invade someone's privacy by attempting to access their accounts, devices, or personal information without their permission. Online privacy breaches can have serious consequences and may result in legal actions.
On Neighbourly, we take privacy seriously, and we have robust measures in place to protect the personal information of our users. We encourage neighbours to familiarise themselves with our privacy practices and to report any concerns or potential privacy violations promptly.
By respecting privacy, we create an environment where neighbours can trust one another and feel secure in sharing their thoughts, experiences, and information. It's a fundamental aspect of responsible and respectful communication within our community.
Online Safety: Be cautious online. Protect your personal information and be aware of online scams.
Online safety is a shared responsibility, and every neighbour on Neighbourly plays a role in protecting their personal information and that of others. The internet can be a wonderful place for connecting and sharing, but it also comes with risks that require vigilance and awareness.
To ensure your online safety:
Online safety is a critical component of responsible online behaviour. By being cautious, informed, and proactive, you can protect yourself and contribute to a safer online environment for all Neighbourly members.
In the next section, we will explore the principles of legal compliance and governing law, ensuring that all neighbours understand
Users must comply with all applicable laws while using Neighbourly.
The legal framework within which Neighbourly operates is an important aspect of our community. It ensures that all users understand their responsibilities and obligations while using our platform. Compliance with laws is a fundamental requirement for participating in the Neighbourly community.
Neighbourly is committed to upholding local, national, and international laws and regulations. Users are expected to adhere to these laws in all aspects of their interactions on our platform. This includes but is not limited to:
Users are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the laws applicable to their region and to seek legal advice if they have questions or concerns about their activities on Neighbourly. Failure to comply with applicable laws may result in legal action and the suspension or termination of a user's account.
Governing Law and Venue
Jurisdiction and Venue
These Community Guidelines are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of South Africa. Any legal action or proceedings arising out of or related to these guidelines must be brought in the appropriate court located in South Africa.
Understanding the governing law and venue for Neighbourly is an important aspect of our commitment to legal compliance. These provisions clarify which jurisdiction's laws apply to our community guidelines and where legal disputes related to our platform should be resolved.
The governing law ensures that there is a clear legal framework within which Neighbourly operates. It specifies the laws and regulations that Neighbourly must adhere to and that users must comply with while using our platform. By defining the governing law, we provide transparency and clarity regarding the legal standards that apply to all community members.
In addition to the governing law, the venue provision establishes the appropriate court where legal actions or proceedings related to our community guidelines should be brought. This ensures that any legal disputes or issues related to Neighbourly are resolved through the proper legal channels, providing a fair and equitable process for all parties involved.
By including these legal compliance provisions in our community guidelines, we aim to create a transparent and accountable environment where all members understand their rights and responsibilities within the framework of the law.
Effective Date and Amendments
Effective Date
These guidelines are effective as of 18 October 2023.
Amendments
Neighbourly may amend these guidelines at any time. Significant changes will be communicated to users.
Effective Date
The effective date of our community guidelines is the date on which these guidelines come into force and become applicable to all Neighbourly users. It serves as a reference point for when the guidelines were established and provides clarity regarding their current status.
Amendments
Neighbourly reserves the right to make amendments to these community guidelines as needed. Amendments may be made to address evolving community needs, changes in the law, or improvements to our platform. When significant changes are made, Neighbourly is committed to communicating these amendments to users to ensure they are aware of any updates or modifications.
Amendments may include changes to existing guidelines, the addition of new guidelines, or updates to legal compliance provisions. Neighbourly recognises the importance of transparency in the amendment process and will take steps to inform users of any changes that may affect their participation on the platform.
The ability to amend these guidelines allows Neighbourly to adapt to the evolving needs and expectations of our community while maintaining a commitment to our core principles and values.
In the next sections, we will continue to explore the principles of responsible behavior and acceptable conduct within our community. We will also provide guidance on how to report violations and seek assistance when needed.
Harassment: Harassment of any kind, including online harassment, cyberbullying, and stalking, will not be tolerated. Harassment is a harmful and damaging behaviour that can have serious consequences for individuals and the community as a whole. On Neighbourly, we have a zero-tolerance policy for harassment in any form.
Harassment can take many forms, including:
Harassment can cause severe emotional distress, harm mental health, and create a hostile environment for victims. Neighbourly is committed to providing a safe and welcoming space for all neighbours, and we take swift action to address and prevent harassment on our platform.
If you believe you are experiencing harassment on Neighbourly, please report it immediately through our reporting tools. Our Neighbourhood Specialists and Community Managers are here to support you and take appropriate action to address the issue.
15. Bullying: Bullying, intimidation, or any form of aggressive behaviour is strictly prohibited. Bullying is a harmful behaviour that can have devastating effects on individuals and communities. It goes against the principles of respect, kindness, and inclusivity that Neighbourly promotes.
Bullying can manifest in various ways, including:
Neighbourly is committed to maintaining a safe and respectful environment where neighbours can interact without fear of bullying. If you encounter bullying behaviour on Neighbourly, please report it promptly. Our Neighbourhood Specialists and Community Managers will take appropriate action to address the situation and support those affected.
Additionally, if you believe you are experiencing bullying, it's important to seek help and support. Reach out to trusted friends, family members, or professionals who can provide guidance and assistance.
Hate Speech and Discrimination
16. Hate Speech: Hate speech, which includes promoting violence, discrimination, or prejudice against individuals or groups, is strictly prohibited.
Hate speech is a harmful and destructive form of expression that goes against the principles of respect, inclusivity, and empathy that Neighbourly promotes. It includes any form of communication that promotes violence, discrimination, or prejudice against individuals or groups based on characteristics such as race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or other protected attributes.
Neighbourly is committed to providing a platform that is free from hate speech and promotes positive and respectful interactions among neighbours. Hate speech can cause significant harm, both emotionally and socially, and it has no place in our community.
If you encounter hate speech on Neighbourly, please report it immediately. Our Neighbourhood Specialists and Community Managers will take swift action to address the issue and ensure that our community remains a safe and welcoming place for all neighbours.
17 Discrimination: Discrimination based on protected characteristics, such as race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation, is not tolerated.
Discrimination is the unfair or unequal treatment of individuals or groups based on characteristics such as race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or other protected attributes. Neighbourly is committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment where all neighbours are treated with fairness and equity.
Discrimination can take various forms, including:
Discrimination harms individuals and perpetuates inequalities within society. On Neighbourly, we promote a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination. If you believe you have experienced discrimination or have witnessed discriminatory behaviour on our platform, please report it immediately.
Our Neighbourhood Specialists and Community Managers are here to address and rectify such situations swiftly, ensuring that our community remains an inclusive and welcoming space for all neighbours.
Threats and Violence
18 Threats: Making threats of violence, harm, or other forms of intimidation is strictly prohibited.
Threats are a serious violation of our community guidelines and legal standards. They involve conveying an intention to harm or inflict violence on an individual, group, or entity. Threats can manifest in various ways, from direct verbal threats to written or online communications that imply harmful intentions.
Neighbourly is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all neighbours. We take threats seriously and have measures in place to address and prevent such behaviour on our platform. If you encounter threats on Neighbourly, please report them immediately. Our Neighbourhood Specialists and Community Managers will take swift action to assess and address the situation.
In cases of immediate danger or if you believe someone is at risk, contact your local law enforcement authorities or emergency services. Safety is our priority, and we encourage neighbours to take appropriate action to protect themselves and others in situations involving threats.
19 Violence: Any form of advocating or promoting violence, self-harm, or harm to others is strictly prohibited.
Violence is a grave violation of our community guidelines and goes against the principles of safety, respect, and empathy that Neighbourly promotes. Advocating or promoting violence can include encouraging harm to oneself or others, glorifying violent actions, or sharing violent content.
Neighbourly is committed to maintaining a safe and supportive environment where neighbours can interact without fear of violence or harm. If you encounter content or behaviour that promotes violence on Neighbourly, please report it immediately.
Additionally, if you believe someone is in immediate danger or at risk of self-harm or harm from others, please seek help from appropriate authorities, such as law enforcement or emergency services. The safety and wellbeing of our neighbours are of utmost importance, and we encourage all neighbours to take action when necessary.
In the next section, we will explore the principles of transparency and accountability, ensuring that all community members understand their responsibilities and the consequences of their actions.
Account Responsibility: Users are responsible for their accounts and activities on Neighbourly. Do not share your account or engage in deceptive practices.
Neighbourly encourages all users to take responsibility for their accounts and actions on our platform. Your account is a personal representation of yourself within the community, and it comes with certain responsibilities.
Account responsibility includes:
Neighbourly values accountability and transparency among its community members. By taking responsibility for your account and actions, you contribute to the overall integrity and wellbeing of our community.
Consequences of Violations: Violations of our guidelines may result in consequences, including warnings, suspensions, or account terminations.
Neighbourly is committed to upholding our community guidelines and maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all neighbours. When violations of
our guidelines occur, we take appropriate action to address them and ensure that our community remains a welcoming space.
Consequences for violations can vary based on the severity and nature of the violation. They may include:
Consequences are applied consistently and fairly to all users, regardless of their background or status within the community. Neighbourly is committed to maintaining transparency in the enforcement of consequences and providing users with an opportunity to appeal decisions when appropriate.
We believe that consequences for violations are essential to upholding our community's standards and ensuring that Neighbourly remains a positive and respectful space for all neighbours.
In the final section, we will conclude our exploration of the Neighbourly Community Guidelines, summarising the key principles and values that underpin our community.
In conclusion, the Neighbourly Community Guidelines are a comprehensive framework designed to foster a positive, respectful, and supportive environment for all neighbours. These guidelines are built on a foundation of core values, including respect, inclusivity, empathy, and transparency.
Our mission at Neighbourly is to unite neighbours, promote community safety, and encourage positive interactions. We believe that by coming together, neighbours can create strong, thriving communities where everyone feels valued and supported.
Throughout these guidelines, we have explored the following key principles:
These principles collectively contribute to a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment on Neighbourly. We are committed to upholding these guidelines and ensuring that all neighbours have the opportunity to thrive and prosper together.
As a Neighbourly community member, you play a vital role in shaping the culture and values of our platform. By adhering to these guidelines, you contribute to the collective effort to create stronger, more connected communities.
We encourage all neighbours to familiarise themselves with these guidelines, report violations when necessary, and actively participate in building a brighter future for our communities. Remember that "United We Prosper," and together, we can achieve great things on Neighbourly.
Thank you for being a part of our Neighbourly community. We look forward to the positive contributions, connections, and collaborations that will continue to strengthen our neighbourhoods.
Please note that these guidelines are subject to periodic updates and amendments to ensure their relevance and effectiveness. Neighbourly remains committed to transparent communication with its community members regarding any changes to these guidelines.
If you have any questions, concerns, or feedback about the Neighbourly Community Guidelines, please don't hesitate to reach out to our Neighbourhood Specialists and Community Managers. Your input is valued and appreciated as we work together to make Neighbourly a better place for all neighbours.
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