Highlights
Governance forms the foundation of any robust trust and safety framework. It’s about establishing clear team structure, roles and responsibilities, external policies, internal enforcement guidelines and procedures that govern how your platform operates and addresses safety concerns & user rights.
Here is what we took away from our discussion with Agne Kaarlep (Tremau), Hollie K-Akhurst (Ofcom), Emma Drake (Bird & Bird), and Mike Farrell (Compiler):
- OSA risk assessments aren’t a “set it and forget it” task. They will require annual updates and more frequent reviews when new features or guidelines emerge. A structured process with clearly defined roles and governance is essential.
- Don’t skimp on data. Data collection is both critical and challenging. Identify your data sources early on and coordinate regularly to fill any gaps. Each assessment offers a chance to learn and improve.
- Ofcom isn’t looking for perfection but for progress. The regulatory approach will evolve as platforms mature, so proactive engagement is key to staying ahead.
- Effective risk assessments do more than just meet compliance standards. They improve platform safety and functionality, leading to better business outcomes and a safer online environment.
What's next?
Governance forms the foundation of any robust trust and safety framework. It’s about establishing clear team structure, roles and responsibilities, external policies, internal enforcement guidelines and procedures that govern how your platform operates and addresses safety concerns & user rights.
Developing comprehensive policies that outline acceptable behaviour, content standards, and user rights on your platform is key to effective T&S operations. These policies should be clear, accessible, and easily understood by all users. They serve as the backbone of your T&S efforts, providing a reference point for both users and your internal team.
