Thanks very much for taking the time to post, it is great to hear your thoughts.

These guidelines were developed to introduce and set the scene for new members joining PatientsLikeMe. They aim to clarify and support a sense of both individual and community responsibility, and can be a timely reminder for all of us at times!

It is great to see the ‘Light Touch’ approach work well; when communities effectively self moderate, with members setting the boundaries regarding acceptable behaviour such that moderators aren’t required! It also helps guide overly enthusiastic moderation so that members are free to use the site and self-moderate without feeling over protected or policed.

We have made some modifications over the years, for example we have started to introduce time out when necessary, as well as plans to introduce a ‘hide user’ function, all with the aim of facilitating positive patient interaction and safe exchange of experience.

It is really helpful to have feedback, thank you for all that you and our members contribute in making their community work

Emma Willey

Community Manager

This is a thoughtful, useful set of guidelines. Emma posted a link to this some time ago during a struggle with a troll. I should have read this sooner. Our troll has returned, nothing has changed, and now two PLM friends who should know better are feeding it.

Nevertheless, this is a great guide. I’ll do my best to use it well.

Thank you!

Lee