Integrity

At Chase, we believe that creative freedom is only possible in a safe environment. That’s why we’ve developed a comprehensive integrity policy where respect, diversity, and safety are central. Whether you’re creating content, attending workshops, or working as a creator coach: everyone shares responsibility for maintaining a safe environment.

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What do we mean by integrity?

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

What if you experience or witness something that isn’t okay? You can contact our Integrity Contact Person (ICP): Tim Vanhaecke (via api@chase.be). He will listen, treat your report confidentially, and help you further — or refer you to additional support if needed.

Integrity Policy Ethercentrum vzw (Chase Community)

1. Introduction‍

Ethercentrum vzw is a recognized Flemish youth organization active in the category ‘Information and Participation’. Through the Chase Community platform, Ethercentrum brings together young people who are active as content creators, digital storytellers, podcasters, photographers, musicians, and changemakers. In this context, Ethercentrum not only aims 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 central.

The integrity policy of Ethercentrum vzw was drafted and updated in line with the 2023 Youth Decree and is tailored to the specific operations of Chase Community. It focuses on prevention, education, action, and care, and is supported across all levels of the organization: from the board and staff to volunteers, workshop facilitators, and the young people themselves.

2. Policy objectives

‍The overarching objective of Chase’s integrity policy is to create a safe, inclusive, and ethical environment for everyone who participates in, is involved with, or works within the Chase Community. The specific objectives are:

• To safeguard the physical, psychological, sexual, and digital integrity of young people and staff.
• To take preventive measures to avoid breaches of integrity.
• To provide a clear and accessible reporting procedure for incidents.
• To support and guide victims of inappropriate or transgressive behavior.
• To stay connected to the social reality in which young people live, both online and offline.

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

3. Specific points of attention within Chase Community

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

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-hurtful way. Group chats, comment sections, and DMs are not free zones: the integrity framework also applies there. There is zero tolerance for cyberbullying, doxxing, online intimidation, identity fraud, or the non-consensual sharing of images or footage.

3.2. Cultural sensitivity
Chase Community is strongly rooted in youth culture, with influences from many different subcommunities. Creative expression often has sharp edges, which leads to conversations about the boundaries of language, humor, identity, and context.

The policy makes a distinction between artistic freedom and offensive behavior. There is room for debate, but always within an atmosphere of equality and respect. Young people are guided to critically reflect on the impact of their expressions.

3.3. Mentor relationships and coaching
Chase organizes programs in which young people are guided individually or in small groups by experienced coaches, often in confidential settings. In these relationships, it is essential that clear boundaries are maintained. The integrity policy includes agreements regarding closeness, privacy, communication, and respect for personal space.

Mentors are made aware of the importance of maintaining professional distance and are trained to recognize signals of boundary-crossing behavior. Young people are informed about their rights and know who they can turn to if a situation does not feel safe.

4. Preventive measures

4.1. Training and education
Each year, Chase Community organizes workshops for young people, covering 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 in sessions such as:

• "From Inspiration to Stress and Burnout”: An evening about stress and burnout among creators with Dr. Ama Kissi
• Inspirational Talk: 'Authenticity is Your Superpower' with Anastasya Chernook
• Dorien Draps (Op Wandel): From creator to community to business
• Digital Creator Talk: Jaël Ost on staying authentic on social media
• Creator Talk: 'The Life of a Full-Time Creator' with Ender Scholtens
• Creator Talk: 'Strategies for Online Success' with Nena Schuurmans

During these sessions, participants worked on strengthening self-awareness, a sense of responsibility, and respect for others within a creative context.

4.2. Onboarding and code of conduct

Within the organization, a project is being developed in which new members, staff, and volunteers receive an onboarding at the start of their journey with Chase Community, during which the integrity policy is explained. A code of conduct will be introduced that every participant must sign. It will contain clear guidelines on:

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

4.3. Physical and digital environment

At both offline events and digital gatherings (Circle, Zoom, social media), agreements are made regarding behavior, privacy, and a culture of speaking up. Organizers ensure there are sufficient points of contact on-site, clear house rules, and the possibility to report boundary-crossing behavior.

5. Reporting point and reactive approach

5.1. Integrity Contact Person (ICP)

Chase has appointed an Integrity Contact Person who is communicated both internally and externally. The Integrity Contact Person is trained, independent in their role, and available via email or a confidential reporting tool. The Integrity Contact Person:

• Listens to reports of boundary-crossing behavior.
• Investigates the situation or refers the case to external organizations.
• Registers incidents anonymously.
• Advises the team on adjustments to the policy.
  

5.2. Reporting procedure

Anyone who witnesses or becomes involved in a breach of integrity can report this confidentially. The procedure is as follows:

1. Report to the ICP via email or reporting form.
2. An initial exploratory conversation within 5 working days.
3. Internal follow-up or referral to specialized partners.
4. If necessary: consultation with the board or legal action.
5. Reporting and evaluation of the incident.
   

5.3. Aftercare

Chase commits to providing the necessary care and support to those involved after each incident. This may include:

• Individual conversations
• Referral to support services
• Temporary adjustments to work structures
• Restorative dialogue
  
  

6. Evaluation and adjustment

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

• During the performance review with the Integrity Officer (API)
• At the general assembly
• Based on feedback from participants, workshop facilitators, and staff

7. Communication and visibility

The integrity policy is actively shared through:

• The community website
• Introductory emails upon registration
• Onboarding presentations
• The internal Circle platform