Guidance on the Use of Social Networking Sites  
 
 
 
Carmarthenshire County Council is aware that employees will use the internet 
to access social networking sites and other such facilities for personal 
purposes.  Many of employees are likely to participate in social networking on 
websites such as Facebook, My Space and Twitter as well as use Blogs to share 
views and opinions.  
 
It is acknowledged that such sites are increasingly useful communication tools 
and are a part of modern life. However it is acknowledged that, following a 
number of recent incidences publicised within the media, there is the potential 
for such sites to blur the boundaries between personal and employment lives. 
Therefore, it is important that all employees are mindful that, when using such 
sites, they must consider the potential impact of their actions on their contract 
of employment with the Council.  
 
Employees must remember that anything posted on a social networking site is 
in the public domain and reflects on the individual as an employee of the 
Authority. Consequently it is considered necessary to issue the following 
guidance to staff: 
 
EMPLOYEES MUST NOT USE SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES: 
  To breach confidentiality  
  To criticise or abuse users of the Authority’s services, any other Council 
employee or elected members 
  To bring the Authority or any of its employees and/or its elected 
members into disrepute 
  During working hours  
 
FURTHERMORE ALL EMPLOYEES MUST ABIDE BY: 
  Council Policies and Procedure (e.g. Internet Usage and Monitoring 
Policy, Flexitime Scheme)  
  Codes of Practice (e.g. Data Protection Act 1998)  
  Contract of Employment – Confidentiality clause  
  Code of Conduct for Council Employees  
 
Employees are advised that the publishing of any inappropriate, inaccurate or 
defamatory information/ material in the public domain may result in 
Use of Social Media 
People Management 
Guidance 
& Performance 
August 2011 
 
 
 

---

disciplinary action being taken by the Council in accordance with its 
Disciplinary Policy & Procedure.  Furthermore, in certain circumstances, civil 
court proceedings could ensue.  
 
Staff are reminded that the Council has a number of policies and procedures to 
enable staff to pursue personal concerns or grievances. 
 
These include:-  
  Grievance Policy & Procedure 
  Dignity at Work Policy & Procedure 
  Whistleblowing Policy & Procedure  
 
Further information in respect of these Policies is available via the documents 
library on BRIAN or from your supervisor/line manager. 
 
Should you need any support or guidance in respect to these sites please 
contact your supervisor/line manager or contact the Human Resources Team.  
 
 
 
Use of Social Media 
People Management 
Guidance 
& Performance 
August 2011 
 
 
 

---