Hope For Families respects the autonomy of every person in our community. This policy explains how and when we seek consent, what we do with consent information, and how consent can be withdrawn.
1. Participation in Activities
Before a child (under 18) joins any of our programmes — including Little Stars, the Adolescent Development Initiative, FirstPass Football Academy or any community event — we obtain written consent from a parent or legal guardian. This consent form:
- Describes the activity and any physical or emotional demands involved.
- Includes an emergency contact number.
- Asks about any medical conditions, allergies or additional needs we should be aware of.
- Is renewed at least annually or whenever a new programme begins.
Adults participating in our programmes (e.g., Community Mental Health & Wellbeing sessions, Food Bank & Café) give verbal consent by choosing to attend. For sessions that include a structured activity — such as Afro Dance Exercise — participants are informed of the nature and intensity of the activity before it begins.
2. Photography & Filming
We celebrate our community's stories on our website, social media channels (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok) and printed materials. Before publishing any image or video that identifies an individual, we require:
- For children under 18: explicit written consent from a parent or guardian, specifying which platforms the image may be shared on.
- For adults: verbal consent confirmed at the time of photography, or written consent if the image will be used in marketing or fundraising materials.
If a participant or parent withdraws consent for existing images, those images will be removed from our platforms as quickly as reasonably practicable (typically within 10 working days).
No images may be taken by staff or volunteers on personal devices. Only designated staff members with camera responsibilities may photograph or film at Hope For Families events.
3. Data Consent
When we collect personal information — for example, when someone registers for an event, joins a programme or contacts us — we explain clearly:
- What information we are collecting and why.
- How long we will keep it.
- Who it may be shared with.
We rely on consent as our legal basis for processing personal data only where it is the most appropriate basis. For full details see our Privacy Policy.
4. Parental & Guardian Consent
A parent or guardian with parental responsibility must provide consent for any child under 18. We do not accept consent from older siblings or other relatives unless they can demonstrate they hold parental responsibility.
Where a child is Looked After by a local authority, consent must be obtained from the relevant social worker or authority before the child can join a programme.
5. Withdrawing Consent
Consent can be withdrawn at any time. To withdraw consent for photography, data use or a specific activity, contact us at kelechioliora@gmail.com or speak directly to a staff member. Withdrawal of consent will not affect any services already provided.
6. Storing Consent Records
Written consent forms are stored securely in line with our Privacy Policy. They are retained for the period of a child's participation in our programmes and for three years afterwards, after which they are securely destroyed.