Public communication should inform without exposing children to harm.
Stories and photographs can help communities understand the work of organisations supporting children. They can also create risks if they reveal too much about a child’s identity, circumstances or location. Responsible storytelling must balance public information with the child’s right to dignity, privacy and protection.
Before sharing an image or personal story, organisations should consider whether it is necessary, whether appropriate informed consent has been obtained and whether publication could cause embarrassment, stigma or future harm. A child’s agreement should be considered in an age-appropriate way, but adults remain responsible for safeguarding decisions.
Images should not portray children as helpless objects of pity. Children have personalities, interests and strengths that deserve to be represented respectfully. Fundraising communication should never imply that support depends on a child being photographed or publicly identified. The purpose of storytelling is to explain work and build understanding, not to trade privacy for donations.
Digital content can be copied, saved and redistributed beyond the original audience. Organisations should therefore avoid publishing sensitive details such as full names, precise routines, school identifiers, case histories or medical information. Consent does not remove the need to assess whether a particular publication is safe and appropriate.
Children’s Sanctuary Trust’s public communications should reflect a commitment to care and dignity. Supporters can help by sharing official information responsibly and avoiding speculation about children shown in photographs. Protecting privacy is part of protecting children, and it strengthens the trust between families, organisations and the wider community.
Children’s Sanctuary Trust welcomes thoughtful dialogue about child wellbeing, community support and practical ways to contribute. To learn more about the organisation’s current priorities, contact the team directly using the details on this website.
