Wider Circle Community Small Group Guidelines

Thank you for your interest in joining a Wider Circle small group on WhatsApp! We believe in building a community where everyone feels respected, valued, and connected.

These simple guidelines help make sure we’re all creating the kind of space we’d love to be a part of. By joining Wider Circle’s WhatsApp group, you agree to follow the below Community Guidelines.

Know Before You Post

  1. This is a peer group, not medical care. You’ll be connecting with other members, not a doctor or health provider. Do not rely on this group for medical advice or emergencies.
  2. Keep what’s shared here private. Members may open up about personal things. Don’t repeat or share what others post outside the group.
  3. A group leader is here to help. They’ll be part of the group and may remove messages that don’t follow our community guidelines.
  4. Your phone number will be visible. Once you join, other members in the group will be able to see your phone number.

Be Kind and Respectful

  1. Celebrate differences. Our members come from all walks of life. Share what you care about, and always respect other people’s views, backgrounds, and opinions.
  2. Keep it kind. No personal attacks, name-calling, or hateful talk. If a conversation gets heated, take a breath. If someone is making you uncomfortable, message your group leader and let them know. We have a zero-tolerance policy for bullying.

Keep It Real and On-Topic

  1. Be yourself. No fake profiles or false information. Be honest about who you are and what you hope to get from this group.
  2. No spam or selling. Keep chats about the group’s topic. Please don’t post ads, chain messages, or things you’re trying to sell. Also be careful with messages asking for money or personal details, these can be scams. If you see one, tell a group leader.

Look Out for One Another

  1. This is a group chat. Everyone in the group can see what you post. You can share personal things about yourself if you want to. But once you post it, others can see it, so think first before you share anything private.
  2. Protect each other’s privacy. Never share another member’s phone number, personal details, health information, or private screenshots outside this group. What’s shared here should stay here.
  3. Share experiences, not medical advice. It’s wonderful to support each other. But please don’t give medical advice or tell someone to change their care. Share your own story, and remind each other to talk with a doctor about health decisions.
  4. Report problems. Group chats move fast. If you see something that breaks these rules, or if you ever feel unsafe, tell a group leader right away so we can help.

A Few More Things.

  1. It’s okay to just read. You don’t have to post to belong here. Read along, jump in when you’re ready, both are welcome.
  2. You can leave anytime. If the group isn’t right for you, that’s okay. Just let your group leader know.
  3. In an emergency, call for help. This group is for connection and support, not emergencies, and it is not monitored in real time. A group leader may not see your message right away, so there may be a delay before anyone reads what you share. Please don’t wait for a reply here. If you or someone else is in danger or having a health crisis, call 911. If you are struggling and need to talk to someone right away, call or text 988 (the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), available 24/7.

By joining the group, you agree to the following.

  1. I understand this is a peer community group, not a medical service.

  2. I agree to keep what members share confidential.

  3. I understand a group leader will be in the group and may remove messages that violate community guidelines.

  4. I agree to be added to a WhatsApp group, and I understand other members in the group will be able to see my phone number.