While chats between users are kept private, it is important that all users feel supported at all times. Therefore, users can provide feedback on their conversations or request assistance. This can be done either through the feedback forms that users are asked to submit following conversations with other users, or by speaking to a moderator confidentially at any time.
However, if a user still feels uncomfortable, it is important to remember that they can end a conversation at any point, and for any reason, by speaking to a moderator.
Mandala is peer-to-peer organisation, and therefore we recognise that those who respond are not trained professionals and are not expected to act as such. Instead, responders should simply aim to have a genuine, friendly conversation while following the rules of the group. If a responder has any questions at any point they should speak to a moderator.
We understand that everyone has their own other commitments, and we just ask that you make this clear when responding to posts.
Maintaining user confidentiality is of utmost importance at Mandala, and for this reason we have developed a double-locked anonymisation system at both the post and the connection stages. Before posting, users are encouraged to send their draft post to a moderator who can then post it anonymously. Once others have replied to the post, the user that submitted the post can also request to a moderator that they are connected anonymously, which can be arranged through a separate platform, such as Telegram.
Additionally, if a user wishes, they are free to use alternate accounts when using Mandala, and can also request that their posts are deleted after being connected. Finally, maintaining user privacy is one of the core rules of the group that all users agree to before joining.
Mandala is a very new organisation, and as a result we are still growing our membership. The more people that join Mandala, the greater the pool of experience, and the more likely it is that you will find a match. However, this does mean that especially in the early stages, matches are not guaranteed. Nonetheless, if you want someone to speak to, a moderator will be happy to have a chat, or alternatively, you arrange to repost at a later point.
Unfortunately, at the moment we are unable to allow those under 18 to join the Mandala Campaign, due to issues with safeguarding, although we hope to be able to change this in the future. However, if you send us an email (themandalacampaign@gmail.com) we would be very happy to direct you to other organisations who can help you out. If there is anything else that we can help you out with, or if you have any other questions please feel free to send us an email, we’d love to hear from you!
