Integrity

At Chase, we believe that creative freedom is only possible in a safe environment. That's why we've developed an integrated integrity policy that focuses on respect, diversity and safety. Whether you co-create content, attend workshops or act as a creator coach: everyone shares responsibility for a safe atmosphere.

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What do we mean by integrity?

For us, integrity means treating each other respectfully - both online and offline. Transgressive behavior, discrimination or abuse will not be tolerated. Our community is a place where everyone can be themselves.

What if you experience or see something that is not okay? You can contact our Integrity Contact Point (API): Tim Vanhaecke (at api@chase.be) He listens, keeps it confidential, and helps you further - or refers you to help if needed.

Integrity policy Ethercentrum vzw (Chase Community)

1. Introduction‍

Ethercentrum vzw is a recognized Flemish youth organization active within the "Information and Participation" category. Through the Chase Community platform, Ethercentrum brings together young people who are active as content creators, digital storytellers, podcasters, photographers, musicians and change makers. In that context, Ethercentrum aims not only to provide a place where young people can develop their creative talents, but also to guarantee a safe space where respect, equality and well-being are key.

Ethercentrum vzw's integrity policy was drafted and adapted in line with the 2023 Youth Decree and is tailored to the specific operation of Chase Community. It focuses on prevention, education, action and care, and is supported by all levels of the organization: from management and staff to volunteers, workshop facilitators and the young people themselves.

2. Policy objective

‍Chase's Integrity Policy has the overarching goal of creating a safe, inclusive and ethical environment for everyone who participates in, is involved with or works within Chase Community. The specific objectives are:

• Ensure the physical, psychological, sexual and digital integrity of youth and staff.
• Take preventive measures to avoid integrity violations.
• Provide a clear and accessible incident reporting procedure.
• Support and guide victims of transgressive behavior.
• Keeping in touch with the social reality in which young people move, online and offline.

The policy is applied not only within the internal operation, but also in the context of public activities such as workshops, content production, coaching tracks and events.

3. Specific concerns within Chase Community

3.1. Online behavior and communication
Within Chase Community, online behavior plays a prominent role. Creators communicate through social media, closed chat groups, livestreams and online publishing channels. This digital context increases the likelihood of misunderstandings, transgressive behavior or inappropriate content distribution.

The policy sets clear guidelines for respectful and safe online interaction. We encourage young people to give feedback on each other's work, but in a constructive and non-offensive way. Group chats, comment sections and DMs are not free zones: the integrity framework applies there too. There is zero tolerance for cyberbullying, doxxing, online harassment, identity fraud or the unwanted distribution of images.

3.2. Cultural Sensitivity
Chase Community is strongly embedded in youth culture, with influences from many sub-communities. Creative expression often happens with sharp edges, leading to conversations about the boundaries of language, humor, identity and context.

The policy here distinguishes between artistic freedom and offensive behavior. There is room for debate, but always within an atmosphere of equality and respect. Young people are guided in critically reflecting on the impact of their expressions. 

3.3. Mentoring relationships and coaching
Chase organizes pathways in which young people are mentored individually or in small groups by experienced coaches, often within confidential settings. In these relationships it is essential that clear boundaries are guarded. The integrity policy includes agreements around proximity, privacy, communication and respect for personal space.

Mentors are sensitized to maintain professional distance and are trained to recognize signs of transgressive behavior. Young people are informed of their rights and know who to turn to if a situation does not feel safe.

4. Preventive measures

4.1. Formation and Education
Annually, Chase Community hosts workshops for young people, including on topics such as online storytelling, podcasting, community management, self-branding, critical citizenship and moral boundaries in content. In several of these sessions, integrity was an explicit part of the dialogue, including at:

• "From Inspiration to Stress and Burnout": An evening around stress and burnout in creators with Dr. Ama Kissi
• Inspirational Talk: 'Authenticity is your superpower' with Anastasya Chernook
• Digital Creator Talk: Jaël Ost on staying authentic on social media
• Creator Talk: 'Strategies for online success' with Nena Schuurmans
• Creator Talk: 'The life of a full-time creator' with Ender Scholtens
• Dorien Draps of Op Wandel: from creator to community to business

These sessions worked on strengthening self-awareness, a sense of responsibility and respect for others in a creative context.

4.2. Onboarding and code of conduct

A project is underway within the organization whereby new members, staff and volunteers will receive an onboarding at the start of their journey with Chase Community that explains the integrity policy. There will be a code of conduct that each participant signs. In it are clear guidelines about:

• Respectful communication
• Boundaries in personal relationships within the organization
• Use of images of others
• Safe and inclusive language
  

4.3. Physical and digital setting

Both at offline events and digital get-togethers (Circle,, Zoom, social media), agreements are made about behavior, privacy and approach culture. Organizers ensure there are enough contact points on site, clear house rules and the possibility to report transgressive behavior.

5. Reporting point and reactive approach

5.1. Integrity Point of Contact (API).

Chase has designated an integrity point of contact to be disclosed internally and externally. The API is trained, independent in his/her role, and available via email or a confidential reporting tool. The API:

• Listens to reports of transgressive behavior.
• Investigates the situation or refers to outside agencies.
• Records incidents anonymously.
• Advises the team on policy adjustments.
  

5.2. Reporting procedure

Anyone who witnesses or becomes involved in an integrity violation may report it confidentially. The procedure is as follows:

1. Report to API via mail or form.
2. Initial exploratory interview within 5 working days.
3. Internal follow-up or referral to specialized partners.
4. If necessary: consultation with board or legal action.
5. Incident reporting and evaluation.
   

5.3. Aftercare

Chase is committed to providing appropriate care to those involved after each incident. This may include:

• Individual interviews
• Referral to assistance
• Temporary adjustment of work structures
• Recovery-oriented consultation
  
  

6. Evaluation and adjustment

The integrity policy is a living document that is evaluated annually. This evaluation occurs:

• During the performance review with the API
• At the general meeting
• Based on feedback from participants, workshop facilitators and staff

7. Communication and visibility

The integrity policy is actively shared through:

• The community website.
• Introduction emails upon enrollment.
• Onboarding presentations.
• The internal Circle platform