Content Safety Framework

The four layers

We don't rely on a single line of defence. Four layers stack to catch different categories of risk — and to make sure no piece of content reaches a public audience without a human reading it first.

What we won't publish

The following content categories will not pass review and may result in removal from YSP programmes:

• Plagiarism & misrepresentation — submissions that are not your own work, or that misstate credentials, age, or institutional affiliation.
• Hate speech & discrimination — content targeting individuals or groups based on race, gender, nationality, religion, disability, sexuality, or any other protected characteristic.
• Violence & self‑harm — content that promotes, glorifies, or provides instruction in violence, self‑harm, or illegal activity.
• Targeted attacks — personal attacks against named individuals, including doxing or unsolicited disclosure of private information.
• Undisclosed conflicts of interest — policy work where a material financial or political tie is concealed from the reader.

Safeguarding for members under 18

Roughly a third of YSP members are under 18. We treat that responsibility seriously and visibly.

• Mentor vetting. All adult mentors complete a screening before being paired with members under 18 — including a written code‑of‑conduct acknowledgement and reference checks where appropriate.
• Channel defaults. Mentor–member communication stays on YSP‑facilitated channels (programme calls, doc threads, our discord) by default. Moving off‑platform requires consent and notification.
• No private 1:1 fundraising or commercial solicitation. Mentors cannot solicit money, services, or commercial work from members.
• Mandatory reporting. Where local law requires disclosure of safeguarding concerns to authorities, YSP will comply in full.

Reporting a concern

If you encounter content, behaviour, or a situation that worries you — about your own safety, someone else's, or the integrity of a piece of work — please tell us. You do not need to be a YSP member to file a report.

Reports are read by a named staff member, kept confidential by default, and aggregated (without identifying details) in our Annual Report.

Removal & appeals

If content or a member is removed under this framework:

• You'll be told why. Removal decisions come with a written explanation citing the specific clause violated.
• You can appeal. One appeal is permitted, in writing, within 14 days. Appeals are reviewed by someone outside the original decision.
• Repeat or severe violations are final. Patterns of harassment, safeguarding breaches, and any conduct that risks the safety of minors are not appealable.

How this framework evolves

We review this framework at least annually, alongside our Annual Report. Material changes are summarised in plain language at the top of this page and noted in the changelog below. Members are not bound by retroactive changes to safeguarding rules.