We know it can be challenging to connect with like-minded people and build meaningful relationships as an adult.
Particularly in a post-Covid world, where remote and hybrid working have become the norm, social opportunities can often feel limited.
That’s why we created The Great Friendship Project back in 2021 to provide spaces where you can not only meet new people and make friends, but most importantly, maintain those friendships over time.
Through our activities, we’ve always hoped to help build a real sense of community in London, something we know can sometimes be hard to find.
Because friendship doesn’t just happen at events, we’ve also created a range of online chats to help you stay connected in between activities.
However, for these chats to be valuable, they need to be safe, inclusive, and supportive spaces for everyone.
Online Chats – Code of Conduct
1. Respectful Communication
Treat everyone with respect and dignity. Avoid any language that could be offensive, harassing, or discriminatory, even if it’s intended as a joke. Written messages can easily be misinterpreted, so take a moment to think about tone and impact before posting. If you’re unsure whether something might come across the wrong way, it’s best to leave it out.
2. Positive Attitude
Our community thrives on kindness, encouragement, and positivity. Be friendly, supportive, and uplifting. If someone shares good news – celebrate it. If they open up about a challenge – respond with empathy. We’re here to build each other up, not tear anyone down.
3. Privacy
Respect other people’s privacy, as well as your own. Don’t share personal information, such as full names, phone numbers, addresses, workplace details, or anything that could identify someone without clear consent.
What’s shared in the chat should stay in the chat. Please do not screenshot, forward, or share conversations, photos, or videos outside the group unless you’re capturing something to report to an admin.
4. No Spam or Promotions
Our chats exist for genuine conversation and connection — not advertising or self-promotion.
Please don’t post promotional content, event links, or unrelated WhatsApp groups without prior approval from an admin.
If you’re unsure, check first. Repeated or unsolicited promotions will be removed, and persistent offenders may be removed from the group.
5. Report Incidents
If you witness behaviour that breaches these guidelines or makes you feel uncomfortable, report it to the moderators straight away.
All reports are taken seriously and handled discreetly and fairly. You don’t need to deal with it yourself – we’re here to maintain a safe and respectful space for everyone.
6. Responsibility for Content
You’re responsible for everything you post. Do not share anything illegal, harmful, or false. This includes copyrighted material, misinformation, or anything that infringes on someone else’s rights.
In serious cases, messages may be referred to the relevant authorities. Always think before you share – if it could cause harm, don’t post it.
7. No Trolling or Bullying
Trolling, bullying, or deliberately upsetting others will not be tolerated. Any form of harassment – whether direct or subtle can lead to immediate removal from the chat and, if necessary, a ban from the wider community.
8. No Unsolicited Messaging
Put simply: if you don’t know someone, don’t message them privately. These chats are designed to help people connect, but they’re not a contact list and they’re not a dating platform.
If you’d like to connect with someone outside the group, ask in the chat first or speak to them in person at an event. Sending unsolicited personal messages will likely be reported and treated as inappropriate or creepy behaviour and may result in you being removed from the community.
9. Inclusivity and Sensitivity
Our community welcomes people from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Be mindful of your language and humour as even unintentional comments can make others feel excluded.
Please also keep conversations focused on the purpose of the chat. Avoid divisive or sensitive topics such as politics, religion, or anything that might cause conflict or discomfort for others.
10. Moderator Decisions
Our moderators are here to keep things running smoothly and protect the community. If they ask you to stop certain behaviour, please respect that guidance. Repeated breaches or refusal to follow direction may result in removal from the chat.
By following these rules, you’re helping to create a safe, positive, and genuinely friendly space where everyone can feel comfortable being themselves.
Our hope is that these chats help you not only stay in touch but truly feel part of something bigger: a supportive community where friendships can grow and last.
