WhatsApp for what purpose?

WhatsApp for what purpose? A briefing from our Executive Team on Wednesday 10th April 2024

Dear all

WhatsApp has been in the news recently, more especially when a plumber was awarded a significant payout after he was left out of a work chat – Plumber awarded more than £130,000 after he was left out of work chat  Excluding people from WhatsApp group can be discrimination, judge rules (thetimes.co.uk)

It’s prompted us to share a few thoughts and reminders; all work related communications using a chat app should be done using Microsoft Teams. It’s our approved app. This is especially important when discussions might include work processes, confidential or personal information and /or sensitive data. This is to ensure information is protected and secure.

We recognise that departments across the charity may be using alternative instant messaging for social reasons, with volunteer colleagues for instance or where the use of Teams isn’t possible. Please remember that if you are in chats with colleagues or stakeholders, you’re still representing Cornwall Hospice Care, so don’t let the chat become personal or in the case of clinical colleagues, patient identifiable.

If it’s a WhatsApp group for the whole of your team, then that’s what it should be, please don’t leave anyone out, and always consider the following…

• Is this chat work related? Stick to relevant topics such as shifts, shop opening times. Don’t let the chat become personal, negative or in the case of clinical colleagues, patient/family identifiable
• Do I really need to send a message now? Remember that it’s important to have down time away from work and work messages, especially before or after your work hours.
• Am I including everyone in my team? Communication is about being inclusive, so please be mindful that some staff and volunteers may not be able to access WhatsApp or have a Smartphone. They still deserve to know what you’re telling their colleagues.

If you have any questions please ask your Line Manager in the first instance.

Best wishes

Paul, Gina, Will and Frazer