Group ground rules

We ask everyone attending meetings to read and respect these ground rules.

1. Barnet Depression Alliance self-help group exists for the mutual support and encouragement of adults (18 years and over) in the London Borough of Barnet suffering from depression. It is open to all regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability, age or any other indicators of difference.

2. Complete confidentiality will be maintained between group members. Nothing personal said within the group will be repeated outside of it and the names of those attending are also to be kept confidential.

3. The personal dignity of members will be upheld at all times and no-one will be subjected to personal criticism, improper language or improper approaches, whether physical, sexual or emotional. Members should behave towards one another in a non-judgmental manner.

4. Members are free to keep personal details (names, phone numbers, email and postal addresses) given to them by other members. Any such information given to the Group Organisers or committee will be treated as confidential and only released with the permission of the member concerned.

5. Religious, cultural and other beliefs will be respected at all times.

6. No individual will be permitted to dominate the group, including the Group Organisers. People will be encouraged to share their experiences and support each other both for their own good and for the good of the group.

7. Any complaint or concern should be taken to the Group Organisers or any member of the Committee.

8. The Group Organisers cannot be held responsible for the content of visiting speakers’ presentations, talks or activities.

9. Members who show up under the influence of recreational drugs or alcohol will not be permitted to participate in the group and will be asked to leave.

10. Each group member takes responsibility for her or his opinions and actions. Whatever is said at a group meeting does not constitute advice or medical opinion, and no one in the group can be held responsible for the consequences of any action taken by any group member as a result of attending a group meeting.

11. Individual members have the right (but not the obligation) to be involved in decisions about the group and its activities.

12. Any comments or advice between members is not the responsibility of the Group Organisers or the Committee.

13. Medical advice should always be sought from an appropriately qualified medical professional.

14. Anyone who is unable to adhere to these ground rules may be requested to leave the group.

(Last updated September 2022)