We Are The
Stories We Tell

Principles:

• Inclusivity and Diversity: I deeply respect and celebrate the diversity of individuals in our community storytelling projects, acknowledging that each person has a unique story to share.
• Empowerment: I empower individuals, including vulnerable adults and children, to share their stories in a safe and supportive environment, ensuring their voices are heard.
• Informed Consent: I ensure that informed consent is obtained from all participants, clearly communicating the project's purpose, how their stories will be used, and any potential implications.
• Confidentiality: I handle all personal stories with the utmost confidentiality, ensuring that sensitive information is protected from unauthorised access or disclosure.
• Reporting Mechanism: We all share the responsibility to report safeguarding concerns, irrespective of a person's status, profession, or authority. Any concerns about the conduct or behaviour of a practitioner/person in a position of trust will be reported to social services or the police.
• DBS Check Certification: I am committed to maintaining an up-to-date Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check certificate for myself, and I insist that individuals I might collaborate with do the same.
• Collaboration with Partner Organisations: I collaborate closely with partner organisations, sharing our safeguarding policy and ensuring alignment with their policies to create a unified approach to safeguarding.

At Community Storywork, I am dedicated to cultivating an inclusive and equitable environment for all individuals and communities I engage with.

• Equality in Storytelling: My storytelling approach is unbiased and respectful, ensuring fair representation and inclusion of all voices.
• Non-Discrimination: I do not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.
• Inclusivity in Portfolio Presentation: Due to the sensitive nature of my media work involving personal stories, not all content is showcased on my website. In-person meetings are encouraged to present a more comprehensive array of examples.
• Accessibility: I strive to make my services accessible to all individuals, including those with disabilities. Reasonable accommodations will be made to facilitate engagement and participation.
• Confidentiality and Privacy: I prioritise the privacy and confidentiality of personal stories shared with me. All data gathered will be handled with the utmost sensitivity and in compliance with data protection regulations.
• Sole Trader Commitment: As a sole trader with no staff, I am personally committed to upholding these principles in every aspect of my work.

I recognise the critical importance of data protection and privacy in our storytelling activities. My commitment to GDPR compliance ensures that when handling personal data:

• Lawful and Transparent Processing: I process personal data lawfully, transparently, and for specified explicit purposes.
• Data Minimisation: I only collect and process data necessary for community storytelling projects.
• Accuracy and Updates: I strive to maintain accurate and up-to-date data, providing individuals the right to access and correct their personal information.
• Storage Limitation: Personal data is retained for no longer than necessary, with procedures in place for secure and timely data disposal.
• Security Measures: I implement appropriate security measures to protect against unlawful or unauthorised processing.
• Sensitive Information: I recognise and provide stronger legal protection for sensitive information, including that of vulnerable adults and children.
• Data Subject Rights: I respect individuals' rights under the Data Protection Act 2018, including the right to be informed, access personal data, update incorrect information, have data erased, restrict processing, and exercise data portability.

My Pledge:

• Respecting Copyright: I pledge to honour the copyrights of original works, understanding that unauthorized copying, distribution, performance, or display is strictly prohibited.
• Responsible Patents Usage: I commit to respecting patents and ensuring that our projects do not infringe upon inventions protected by intellectual property laws.
• Preserving Design Rights: I commit to respecting both registered and unregistered design rights. Our projects will not intentionally replicate or infringe upon the distinctive features of protected designs.
• Trade Mark Integrity: I pledge not to use any trademarks in a manner that may lead to confusion or infringe upon the rights of the trademark owners.
• Adhering to Database Right Principles: I will not extract or reuse substantial parts of databases without proper authorization.
• International Integrity: I am fully aware of the international dimensions of intellectual property protection.
• Educating and Cultivating Ethical Practices: Community Storywork is committed to fostering a culture of awareness and respect for intellectual property rights.

I am committed to weaving not only impactful narratives but also a sustainable and eco-conscious approach into the fabric of my business:

• Reduce Driving: Reducing the need for unnecessary driving.
• Support Local Businesses: I will actively engage in shopping locally to bolster small businesses and contribute to the community's economic vitality.
• Cut Back on Flying: I commit to cutting back on unnecessary flights and exploring alternative travel options.
• Energy Conservation: I will take deliberate steps to reduce energy consumption.
• Reuse and Repair: I will prioritise the reuse and repair of items, promoting longevity and minimising unnecessary waste.
• Waste Reduction and Recycling: Actively working towards reducing waste and improving recycling practices within my business operations.
• Nature-Friendly Garden: I will create a space for nature in my personal and professional surroundings, incorporating native plants and providing habitats for wildlife.
• Advocacy within Personal Network: I will encourage my friends and family to join me in adopting sustainable practices.