Terms of Use

Terms & Conditions

Global Thinkers Forum Terms & Conditions

The below T&C apply to Global Thinkers Forum Ltd (‘GTF’), Global Thinkers Mentors and Athena40 operations, activities, collaborations and agreements unless otherwise specified in writing.

www.globalthinkersforum.org is a website operated by Global Thinkers Forum Ltd (Company No. 7968380). ‘GTF’ provides news, interviews, features, information about and registration to events, workshops, seminars, also promotional opportunities, newsletters, information on sponsors, partners and speakers profiles and is also a platform and environment for offline networking and information sharing. Its services and the Global Thinkers Forum Ltd services are subject to terms and conditions set out below. Please read them carefully.

This, Terms of Use Agreement (the “Agreement”) describes the terms and conditions applicable to your dealings with Global Thinkers Forum Ltd and the use of the ‘GTF’ websites which are identified by the uniform resource locators www.globalthinkersforum.org www.globalthinkersmentors.org www.athena40.org www.athena40forum.com (the “Sites” or “‘GTF/GTM/Athena40’”). This Agreement is entered into between you as the client or user of the Sites (the “User”), contractor, freelancers, staff member, intern, volunteer (the ‘User’), advertiser (the ‘User’), sponsor of events (‘the User’) and Global Thinkers Forum Ltd/or an affiliate company.

1. Application of and Acceptance of Terms and Conditions

1.1 For purposes of this Agreement, a “User” is any person who accesses the Sites for whatever purpose, regardless of whether said User has registered with ‘GTF’ as a registered User or whether said User is a paying customer, freelancer, contractor, staff member, intern, volunteer, advertiser or sponsor for a specific project, initiative, service and event provided by ‘GTF’. A User includes the person using these Sites and any legal entity which may be represented by such person under actual or apparent authority.

1.2 By accessing or using the Sites or entering into an agreement with Global Thinkers Forum Ltd you hereby agree to accept the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement as a User. You also agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of this Agreement with respect to your collaboration with or participation in Global Thinkers Forum events, your access or use of these Sites and any further upgrade, modification, addition or change to these Sites. If you do not accept all of the terms and conditions of this Agreement, please do not use these Sites.

1.3 This Agreement describes the terms and conditions for the use of ‘GTF’ and applies to all ‘Users’, in addition to any terms and conditions that may be applicable to any specific Service provided.

1.4 ‘GTF’ reserves the right to modify and amend this Agreement or any term or condition, at any time, for any reason and without prior notice. However, ‘GTF’ must post the amended and restated Agreement on the Sites. The amended and restated Agreement shall be effective immediately upon posting. This Agreement was last amended on February 8, 2020. Posting by ‘GTF’ of the amended and restated Agreement and your continued use of the Sites or/and your collaboration with ‘GTF’ shall be deemed to be acceptance of the amended terms. This Agreement may not otherwise be modified, except in writing by an authorized team member of ‘GTF’.

1.5 ‘GTF’ reserves the right to suspend or terminate, at its discretion and without prior notice, any user’s account if he/she fails to comply with or violates the following terms of use as well as the rules and guidelines set out by ‘GTF’.

2. Terms of Service and User Conduct

2.1 ‘GTF’ is made available for both individual and corporate use. However, companies and any other legal entities wishing to use the Sites must provide information on their legal representative and his/her power to act on their behalf.

2.2 Since ‘GTF’ also provides a platform and environment for professional networking, if users enter into agreements of any kind, with other users through the Sites, ‘GTF’ or/and any ‘GTF’-organised events are not a contracting party to these agreements and cannot, in any case, be held liable or accountable in regard to these agreements.

2.3 ‘GTF’ reserves the right at any time and from time to time, to modify or discontinue, temporarily or permanently, the Sites or the GTF Services (or any part thereof) with, or without prior notice. You agree that ‘GTF’ shall not be liable to you or to any third party for any modification, suspension or discontinuation of the online Service.

2.4 Your participation in ‘GTF’ is based upon the assumption that all information you provide regarding yourself is truthful and accurate. Misleading or false information constitutes a sufficient reason for terminating your user access.

2.5 Pseudonyms and/or alias are prohibited. Falsely misrepresenting your identity, including the use of pseudonym or alias, or your profile information will cause the suspension or termination of your usage of ‘GTF’.

2.6 You acknowledge that ‘GTF’ reserves the right to change general practices and limits at any time, in its sole discretion, without prior notice.

2.7 You understand that all information, data, text, software, music, sound, photographs, graphics, video, messages or other materials (“Content”), whether publicly posted or privately transmitted, are the sole responsibility of the person/User from which such Content originated.

2.8 ‘GTF’ does not control the Content provided by the 'Users' posted and, as such, does not ensure, support or guarantee the accuracy, integrity, reliability or quality of such Content, nor does ‘GTF’ endorse opinions expressed by Users.

2.9 As a “User” of these Sites, you understand and agree that by using this Service, Content that is offensive, indecent or objectionable may be encountered. Under no circumstances will ‘GTF’ be liable in any way for any Content, including, but not limited to, for any errors or omissions in any Content, or for any loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of the use of any Content posted, emailed or otherwise transmitted via the Service.

2.10 As a User of these Sites, you agree to not knowingly or intentionally use ‘GTF’ to:

A. Upload, make available, post, email or otherwise transmit any Content that is unlawful, harmful, threatening, libelous, defamatory, abusive, harassing, or otherwise objectionable;

B. Harm minors in any way;

C. Impersonate any person or entity, including, but not limited to, a ‘GTF’ employee, moderator or host, or falsely state or otherwise misrepresent your affiliation with a person or entity;

D. Forge headers or otherwise manipulate identifiers including copyright management information in order to disguise the origin of any Content transmitted through the Service;

E. Upload, make available, post, email or otherwise transmit any Content that you do not have a right to transmit under any law or under contractual agreement or relationship;

F. Upload, make available, post, email or otherwise transmit any Content that infringes any patent, trademark, trade secret, intellectual property, copyright or other proprietary rights of any party, whether personal, corporate or governmental;

G. Upload, make available, post, email or otherwise distribute or transmit any unsolicited or unauthorized advertising, promotional materials, “junk mail”, “spam", “chain letters", “pyramid schemes", “multi-level marketing” or any other form of solicitation, except in those areas or groups that may be designated for such purpose;

H. Upload, make available, post, email or otherwise transmit any material that contains software viruses or any other computer code, files or programmes designed to interrupt, destroy or limit the functionality of any computer software or hardware or telecommunications equipment;

I. Disrupt the normal flow of dialogue, cause a screen to “scroll” faster than other users of the Service are able to type, or otherwise act in a manner that negatively affects other users’ ability to engage in real-time exchanges;

J. Interfere with or disrupt the Service or servers or networks connected to the Service, or disobey any requirements, procedures, policies or regulations of networks connected to the Service;

K. Intentionally or unintentionally violate any applicable local, state, national or international law; or

L. “Stalk”, unreasonably disturb or otherwise harass another User.

2.11 ‘GTF’ does not pre-screen Content and Users agree to evaluate and bear all risks associated with the making available of, downloading or use of any Content. Users further agree that ‘GTF’ and its designees have the right (though not the obligation), in their sole discretion, to refuse or remove any Content, available via the Service, and/or deny further access. Without limiting the foregoing, ‘GTF’ and its designees reserve the right to remove any Content that violates the terms of this agreement, or is otherwise objectionable or because it may infringe or violate any party’s privacy.

2.12 Users of these Sites are prohibited from distributing, displaying or publishing in any form, electronic or print, any content from the Sites ‘GTF’ websites or the names of any users without the express consent of ‘GTF’ or without crediting ‘GTF’, nor can Users share, transmit or sell any content on the Sites with anyone who is not a User of ‘GTF’, for whatever reason.

2.13 Users of these Sites are prohibited from monitoring, data-mining, or copying ‘GTF’s' web pages or any content within the Sites, nor collecting, archiving, trading or selling any personal data or communications about other Users.

2.14 ‘GTF’ prohibits the use of any robot, spider, Sites search or retrieval application, or any other device to copy, retrieve, archive or index any portion of the Sites.

2.15 While ‘GTF’ encourages you, as a User of these Sites, to refer friends, family, colleagues, and others to use the Service, you may do so only through methods that are consistent with the terms and conditions of your Internet service providers as well as prevailing standards of acceptable Internet use and behavior. In particular, you are prohibited from using the Service, name, trademarks, or other intellectual property of ‘GTF’ in conjunction with the sending of unsolicited email, or cause to be used ‘GTF’ s equipment, network connectivity, or other resources to originate, deliver, relay, or otherwise transmit unsolicited email messages. You are prohibited from engaging in any of these prohibited activities by using the service of any other provider, third-party agent, remailing service, or address forwarding service, in such a way that ‘GTF’ s network addresses or ‘GTF’s-hosted Web or email services are in any way identified as being associated with the sending of unsolicited email. Other prohibited methods of advertising or promoting your involvement with ‘GTF’ include multiple postings of messages to Usenet newsgroups, mailing lists, chat rooms (including IRC, AIM, ICQ, or other interactive chat services) or other online forums. Incidents of “spamming” or similar inappropriate behaviour should be reported to ‘GTF’ officials.

2.16 Recognizing the global nature of the Internet, you, as a User of these Sites, agree to comply with all rules for local areas regarding online conduct and acceptable Content.

2.17 As a User of these Sites, you agree to comply with all applicable laws regarding the transmission of technical data exported from the country in which you reside.

3. Materials provided or posted on ‘GTF’

3.1 ‘GTF’ does not claim ownership of the materials, in any format including, but not limited to, text, images, photographs, audio, or video, that you provide to ‘GTF’ (including feedback and suggestions) or post, upload, input or submit to any Services or its associated services for review by the general public, or by the members of any public or private community, (each a “Submission” and collectively “Submissions”).

3.2 However, by posting, uploading, inputting, providing or submitting (“Posting”) a Submission, you are subject to the privacy provisions provided herein and automatically grants ‘GTF’, its affiliated companies and sublicensees permission to use a Submission in connection with the operation of ‘GTF’ businesses (including, without limitation, all ‘GTF’ Services), including, without limitation, the transferable, non-exclusive, worldwide, royalty-free, perpetual, irrevocable, fully sub-licensable right and license to: copy, distribute, transmit, publicly display, publicly perform, reproduce, edit, translate and reformat your Submission; to publish your name in connection with your Submission; and the right to sublicense such rights to any supplier of the Services.

3.3 As a User of these Sites, you additionally warrant that each person depicted or recorded in such Submissions, if any, has provided consent to the use of the Submissions as set forth in these Terms of Service, including, by way of example, and not as a limitation, the distribution, public display and reproduction of such Submissions, or that their consent is not required by law for the uses described above.

3.4 No compensation will be paid with respect to the use of a Submission, as provided herein. ‘GTF’ is under no obligation to post or use any Submission you may provide and ‘GTF’ may remove any Submission at any time in its sole discretion.

3.5 By Posting a Submission you warrant and represent that you own or otherwise control all of the rights to your Submission as described in these Terms of Service including, without limitation, all the rights necessary to provide, post, upload, input or submit the Submissions, or that you have a license to such rights, or that such rights are covered by fair use.

3.6 As a User of these Sites, you agree to indemnify and hold ‘GTF’, and its subsidiaries, affiliates, officers, agents, co-branders or other partners, and employees, harmless from any claim or demand, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, made by any third party due to or arising out of Content you make available, submit, post to or transmit through the Service, your use of the Service, your connection to the Service, your violation of the present Terms of Use, or a violation of any rights of another party.

3.7 The Service may provide, or third parties may provide, links or other means to obtain access to information from other persons, World Wide Web Sites or resources. Because ‘GTF’ has no control over such persons, Sites and resources, you acknowledge and agree that ‘GTF’ is not responsible for the availability of such external Sites or resources, and does not endorse and is not responsible or liable for any Content, advertising, products, or other materials on or available from such Sites or resources.

3.8 ‘GTF’ shall not be responsible or liable, directly or indirectly, for any damage or loss caused or alleged to be caused by or in connection with use of or reliance on any Content, goods or services available on or through any such Sites or resource as set out in 3.7.

4. Dealings with professionals, advertisers, sponsors

4.1 ‘GTF’ Users, sponsors, partners and advertisers acknowledge and agree that any correspondence or business dealings with professionals of any kind or field of specialty, including but not limited to, transfer of information, counselling of any kind, transmission of references, as well as participation in promotions of advertisers, found on or through the Service, including payment and delivery of related goods or services, and any other terms, conditions, warranties or representations associated with such dealings, are solely between ‘GTF’Users, sponsors, partners and advertisers, and such professional or advertiser.

4.2 As a User of these Sites, you agree that ‘GTF’ shall not be responsible or liable for any loss or damage of any sort incurred as the result of any such dealings with professionals as set out in 4.1 or as the result of the presence of such professionals or advertisers on the Service or ‘GTF’ event attendants/participants/speakers/sponsors or partners.

4.3 As a User of these Sites, you agree that you and the other party – whether another User of ‘GTF’ or not – engaged in any transaction or deal through ‘GTF’, are solely responsible for all interactions with each other, for arranging for payment, customer service and the exchange and fulfilment of the goods or services purchased, and for the results of the transaction and for all applicable taxes. ‘GTF’ is in no way responsible for any failure to pay any amounts due or to deliver any merchandise as promised or to provide any kind of services as agreed upon, or for any other aspect of the transaction.

4.4 As a User of these Sites, you acknowledge and agree that ‘GTF’ does not guarantee in any case, the execution or outcome of any agreement whatsoever between a User of these Sites‘ ‘GTF’ and any third party, or the quality of any services provided or promised, nor does ‘GTF’ caution credentials or specifics posted by any User and pertaining to (but not limited at) professional activity, academic curriculum etc.

4.5 Users should exercise caution in providing contact information or personal information to the other party and in making personal contact with the other party. ‘GTF’ is not responsible for the actions of any of its Users, and this Service is provided AS-IS and at your own risk.

4.6 Both parties to a transaction are responsible for determining if the transaction is illegal or otherwise does not fully comply with applicable law.

4.7 All contractors and freelancers working with GTF are bound by our standard policies and procedures.

5. GTF Voluntary Internships

GTF offers voluntary internship opportunities twice a year to graduate and post-graduate students. During these internships, individuals agree to volunteer their time to GTF in exchange with knowledge and the experience of working with a global organisation.

The GTF Voluntary Internships abide to the below standards:

  • The internship, including or not actual operation from the facilities of the employer, is similar to training which would be given in an educational environment.
  • The experience is for the benefit of the intern.
  • The intern does not displace regular employees, but works under close supervision of existing staff.
  • The employer providing the training derives no immediate advantage from the activities of the intern and on occasion its operations may actually be impeded.
  • There is no guarantee of a job at the conclusion of the internship.
  • Both parties understand that the intern is not entitled to wages for the internship.

6. ‘GTF’ EVENTS

6.1 Sponsorship of ‘GTF’ events is non-refundable unless otherwise agreed in writing.

6.2 ‘GTF’ may (at its sole discretion) change the format, speakers, content, venue location and programme or any other aspect of the Conference at any time and for any reason, whether or not due to a Force Majeure Event, in each case without liability. Force Majeure shall mean any circumstance beyond the reasonable control of GTF, which prevents or impedes the holding of the GTF, including, but not limited to, government action, war or hostilities, riot or civil commotion, plague or other epidemic such as SARS, bird flu, etc., earthquake, flood, hurricane, cyclone, fire or other natural physical disasters, explosion, accident or breakdown, supplier or contractor failure, venue damage or cancellation, strike, lack of the usual means of transportation or terrorism or due to events which are not attributable to wrongful intent or gross negligence of GTF.

6.2.1 In case of Force Majeure, the ‘GTF’ organisers have the right to alter or cancel the ‘GTF’ event without prior notice, however a notice of the occurrence shall be given by the Global Thinkers Forum team as soon as reasonably possible. ’GTF’ shall not be liable for any direct or indirect, incidental or consequential damages, losses, expenditures or any other inconveniences or costs caused by such modification or cancellation of the GTF. Furthermore, sponsorships or registration fees will not be reimbursed by GTF, ‘GTF’ reserves the right to retain delegate fees as a contribution to all venue and administrative costs incurred.

6.3 In case of any necessary changes relating to force majeure, as in 4.8 & 4.8.1, ‘GTF’ agrees to offer to all sponsors, advertisers and professionals who have already proceeded with payments same opportunities and benefits of equivalent financial value during other ‘GTF’ events.

6.4 To the fullest extent permitted by the applicable law, ‘GTF’ shall not be liable to you as a Participant in any ‘GTF’ event for any loss, delay, damage or other liability incurred resulting from or arising in connection with the cancellation or date change of the Conference howsoever arising or any venue change. Parties acknowledge and agree that all liability of ‘GTF’ is expressly excluded.

6.5 A Participant in any ‘GTF’ event acknowledges that he/she has no right to lodge damage claims against the ‘GTF’ organisers should he/she not be able to attend the conference due to cancelled or delayed travel means caused by Force Majeure. With his/her reservation, the participant accepts this proviso. Travel insurance is not included and Participants are therefore advised to take out their own personal/travel insurance and to extend their policy to cover personal possessions as the conference does not cover individuals against cancellations or theft or damage to belongings.

6.6 ‘GTF’ may (at its sole discretion) refuse admission to, or eject from the event, any person in its absolute discretion, including (without limitation) any person who fails to comply with these terms and conditions or who in the opinion of ‘GTF’ represents a security risk, nuisance or annoyance to the running of the event. You agree to comply with all reasonable instructions issued by ‘GTF’ or the venue owners at the event.

6.7 Although details are correct at time of going to print, ‘GTF’ reserves the right to make unavoidable changes to the programme or speaker identity.

6.8 GTF Licence and Editorial Fees are non-refundable unless otherwise agreed in writing. Local partners are responsible to secure sponsorship for locally organised events.

7. Procedures for nominations for the GTF Awards for Excellence

7.1 The GTF Awards go to some of the most intelligent, innovative, accomplished and socially responsible thought leaders. Extraordinary achievements, unique ideas, excellent management, artistic creativity, ethical reporting will be honoured at the GTF Awards Ceremonies.

7.2 All nominated entities must have a proven record of high integrity, recognition and can serve as role models for successful leadership, forward thinking and positive change.

7.3 GTF receives nominations from the GTF Advisory Board, Global Growth Board as well as the public.

7.4 The individual must have an established reputation and/or track record for excellence within a particular academic, scientific, business, social or policy-making field, and have demonstrated outstanding leadership, and a strong excellence record through activities such as social contribution, philanthropy, forward thinking ideas, innovation, entrepreneurship, CSR, peace, the Arts or made a substantial and exemplary contribution to the nation or global community or be of outstanding service to the community, or the nation through activities or endeavours consistent with the Global Thinkers Forum Vision, Mission and Strategy.

7.5 The contribution of the nominated individuals must had a wider impact within a large community. This means that despite the remarkable work and contribution of many individuals if the impact of their activities only manifests within a small community, there are not eligible to be nominated for a GTF Award.

7.6 Nominations will be evaluated by the GTF Awards Judges, who will select the final Awardees. GTF Awards Judges have to also be GTF Advisory Board Members or Global Growth Partners or be officially invited by GTF to participate in the Judging Committee and can serve on the Committee for a maximum of three consecutive years at a time. GTF reserves the right to merge nominations under one category.

8. Privacy Policy and Data Protection

8.1 ‘GTF’ shares your concerns about personal privacy. Through the Service provided by ‘GTF’, and through other contact with us, ‘GTF’ may collect personal information and data including, but not limited to, application and web Sites usage data, viewing data, file transfer and e-mail data, and personal contact information such as e-mail addresses, mailing addresses and phone numbers.

8.2. ‘GTF’ ’s applications and websites may use technological facilities for tagging and tracking including, but not limited to, Web cookies, login usernames and other technologies to track and correlate data.

8.3 ‘GTF’ makes every effort to keep ‘GTF’ a trusted and safe environment, but it cannot be held liable should content that you, a User of these Sites, has posted on our websites that is viewable by members be copied or distributed elsewhere.

8.4 Access to your private user information is limited to webmasters and management of ‘GTF’. No other employees, contractors or third parties will have access to this information without your express permission.

8.5 ‘GTF’ Service does not rent, sell, share or in any way disclose personal information about you with other people or non-affiliated companies except to provide products or services you requested, when ‘GTF’ has your express permission, or under the following circumstances: A. ‘GTF’ provides the information to trusted partners who work on behalf of or with ‘GTF’. These companies may use your personal information to help ‘GTF’ communicate with you about offers from ‘GTF’ and our marketing partners. However, ‘GTF’ does not grant these companies any independent right to share this information; B. ‘GTF’ responds to subpoenas, court orders, or legal process, or to establish or exercise its legal rights or defend against legal claims; C. ‘GTF’ believes it may be necessary to access, preserve and disclose the contents of your account or share information in order to investigate, prevent, or take action regarding illegal activities, suspected fraud, situations involving potential threats to the physical safety of any person, violations of ‘GTF’ s terms of use, or as otherwise required by law; D. ‘GTF’ will have to transfer information about you if the ‘GTF’ Service is transferred to, acquired by or merged with another company.

8.6 ‘GTF’ will use reasonable efforts to comply with this privacy policy and will take prompt corrective action when we become aware of any failure to comply with this privacy policy.

8.7 In light of the information set out in Section 5.7, and because of the complex and constantly changing nature of GTF’s technology and business, ‘GTF’ does not guarantee error-free performance under this privacy policy. ‘GTF’ shall not be liable for any incidental, consequential or punitive damages relating to this privacy policy.

8.8 The ‘GTF’ privacy policy may change from time to time, and any changes are binding on Users. ‘GTF’ encourages you to visit this privacy policy from time to time to review the most updated policies.

8.9 The personal information provided by Users will be held in a database. ‘GTF’ will periodically send Users information about other directly related products. Users may opt out or select “contact preferences” when registering on the ‘GTF’ websites. If a User has any questions about how ‘GTF’ uses personal data, or if a User would like to be removed from the ‘GTF’ database, please contact GTF.

8.10 NO PERSONS UNDER THE AGE OF THIRTEEN ARE PERMITTED TO USE ‘GTF’. 

Here at Global Thinkers Forum we take your privacy seriously and will only use your personal information to administer your account and to provide the services you have requested from us. In particular, we collect information about you when you contact us through this form, subscribe to our newsletter, subscribe to become a member, participate in surveys, register to attend our events or nominate individuals to receive GTF Awards. Website information is collected using cookies. In addition to the above, from time to time, we would like to contact you with details of other initiatives, events or services we provide. By becoming an individual member you consent to us contacting you for this purpose. For further information on how your information is used, how we maintain the security of your information and your rights to access information we hold on you, please contact: info@globalthinkersforum.org.

8.11 USE OF ‘GTF’ IS CONTINGENT UPON ACCEPTANCE OF THIS PRIVACY POLICY AND ALL OF THE TERMS IN IT.

9. ‘GTF’ s Proprietary Rights, Copyright and Trademarks

9.1 As a User of these Sites, you acknowledge and agree that the Service, the ‘GTF’ brand, logo, design, websites, and any necessary software contain proprietary or/and confidential information that is protected by applicable intellectual property and other laws.

9.1.1 You further acknowledge and agree that Content contained in sponsor advertisements or information presented to you through the Service or advertisers may be protected by copyrights, trademarks, service marks, patents or other proprietary rights and laws.

9.1.2 Except as expressly authorized in writing by ‘GTF’, you agree not to modify, rent, lease, loan, sell, distribute or create derivative works based on the Service, the ‘GTF’ Sites, in whole or in part.

9.2 ‘GTF’ grants you a personal, non-transferable and non-exclusive right and license to use the Service; provided that you do not (and do not allow any third party to) copy, modify, create a derivative work of, reverse engineer, reverse assemble or otherwise attempt to discover any source code, sell, assign, sublicense, grant a security interest in or otherwise transfer any right in the Service.

9.3 As a User of these Sites, you, agree not to access the Service by any means other than through the interface that is provided by ‘GTF’ for use in accessing the Service.

9.4 Global Thinkers Forum Ltd and its affiliates and licensors own and retain all rights in the ‘GTF’ websites and service, which contain proprietary and confidential information that is protected by applicable intellectual property and other laws. “GTF” is a trademark of Global Thinkers Forum Ltd.

9.5 All content on ‘GTF’ is copyright of Global Thinkers Forum Ltd.

9.6 Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the material and integrity of the analysis presented at our events, ‘GTF’ accepts no liability for the content. All registered copyrights, trademarks and logos remain the explicit property of the registered owners.

9.7 Global Thinkers Forum is a term directly related to www.globalthinkersforum.org, it is a trademark registered with the USPTO Reg No 4,323,589 and registered under the UK Copyright Service No. 285428 & No. 292581 and Great Britain & Northern Ireland Registered Trademark No. 2631374

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES

GLOBAL THINKERS FORUM LTD AND ITS AFFILIATES, LICENSORS, PARTNERS, SUPPLIERS, CONSULTANTS AND AG­ENTS DISCLAIM ANY RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR THE ACCURACY, CONTENT, COMPLETENESS, LEGALITY, RELIABILITY OR OPERABILITY OR AVAILABILITY OF INFORMATION OR MATERIALS DISPLAYED ON THE SITES. THE SERVICE AND ALL MATERIALS, INFORMATION (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY INFORMATION, MATERIALS OR SERVICES OF ANY KIND OBTAINED OR ACCESSED THROUGH ‘GTF’ WEBSITES), PRODUCTS AND SERVICES INCLUDED THEREIN, ARE PROVIDED ON AN “AS IS” AND “AS AVAILABLE” BASIS, WITH NO WARRANTIES WHATSOEVER.

‘GTF’ EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW ALL EXPRESS, IMPLIED, STATUTORY OR OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND NON-INFRINGEMENT OF PROPRIETARY RIGHTS. ‘GTF’ MAKES NO WARRANTY THAT (i) THE SERVICE WILL MEET YOUR REQUIREMENTS, (ii) THE SERVICE WILL BE UNINTERRUPTED, TIMELY, SECURE, OR ERROR-FREE, (iii) THE RESULTS THAT MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE USE OF THE SERVICE WILL BE ACCURATE OR RELIABLE, (iv) THE QUALITY OF ANY PRODUCTS, SERVICES, INFORMATION, OR OTHER MATERIAL PURCHASED OR OBTAINED BY YOU THROUGH THE SERVICE WILL MEET YOUR EXPECTATIONS, AND (v) ANY ERRORS IN THE SOFTWARE WILL BE CORRECTED. YOU EXPRESSLY UNDERSTAND AND AGREE THAT YOUR USE OF THE SERVICE IS AT YOUR SOLE RISK. YOU AGREE TO HOLD HARMLESS AND INDEMNIFY ‘GTF’ FROM AND AGAINST ANY THIRD PARTY CLAIM ARISING FROM OR IN ANY WAY RELATED TO YOUR USE OF OUR SERVICES AND SITES, INCLUDING ANY LIABILITY OR EXPENSE ARISING FROM ALL CLAIMS, LOSSES, DAMAGES (ACTUAL AND CONSEQUENTIAL), SUITS, JUDGMENTS, LITIGATION COSTS AND ATTORNEY’S FEES OF EVERY KIND AND NATURE. ANY MATERIAL DOWNLOADED OR OTHERWISE OBTAINED THROUGH THE USE OF THE SERVICE IS DONE AT YOUR OWN DISCRETION AND RISK AND YOU WILL BE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGE TO YOUR COMPUTER SYSTEM OR LOSS OF DATA THAT RESULTS FROM THE DOWNLOAD OF ANY SUCH MATERIAL. NO ADVICE OR INFORMATION, WHETHER ORAL OR WRITTEN, OBTAINED BY YOU FROM ‘GTF’ OR THROUGH OR FROM THE SERVICE SHALL CREATE ANY WARRANTY NOT EXPRESSLY STATED IN THE TERMS OF USE.

ALL REASONABLE ENDEAVOURS WILL BE MADE TO HOLD THE ‘GTF’ EVENTS (FORUM, SEMINARS, WORKSHOPS, SYMPOSIUMS, AWARDS CEREMONY, OTHER) AND TO PRESENT ITS PROGRAMME AS SCHEDULED UNDER CIRCUMSTANCES WHICH ASSURE THE COMFORT AND SAFETY OF ALL PARTICIPANTS AND THEIR GUESTS. HOWEVER, ‘GTF’ RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY THE PROGRAMME, UNILATERALLY AND WITHOUT NOTICE. NEITHER 'GTF', NOR ITS OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, REPRESENTATIVES OR AGENTS, SHALL BE HELD LIABLE BY ANY PERSON AS A RESULT OF THE CANCELLATION OF THE EVENT OR ANY OF THE ARRANGEMENTS, PROGRAMMES OR PLANS CONNECTED THEREWITH, OR FOR ANY INJURY, DAMAGE OR INCONVENIENCE WHICH MAY BE SUFFERED BY ANY PERSON WHILE TRAVELLING TO OR FROM, OR DURING SUCH PERSON’S PRESENCE AT ‘GTF' EVENTS IN CONNECTION WITH THESE EVENTS. PARTICIPANTS AND THEIR GUESTS ARE ADVISED TO PURCHASE THEIR OWN INSURANCE AGAINST ANY SUCH OCCURRENCES. ANY LITIGATION STEMMING FROM THE ABOVE CONTRACT WILL BE TRIED UK COURTS AND UNDER UK LAW EXCLUSIVELY.

LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

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10. Termination

10.1 You agree that ‘GTF’, in its sole discretion, may, immediately and without prior notice, terminate your user access, registration, password, account (or any part thereof) or all use of the Service, and remove and discard any Content within the Service, for any reason, including, without limitation, for lack of use or if ‘GTF’ believes that you have violated or acted inconsistently with the letter or spirit of the Terms of Use. ‘GTF’ may also in its sole discretion and at any time discontinue providing the Service, or any part thereof, with or without notice. You agree that any termination of your access to the Service under any provision of these Terms of Use, may be effected without prior notice, and acknowledge and agree that ‘GTF’ may immediately deactivate or delete your access and all related information and files in your user access and/or bar any further access to such files or the Service. Further, you agree that ‘GTF’ shall not be liable to you or any third-party for any termination of your access to the Service.

10.2 ‘GTF’ s proprietary rights, disclaimer of warranties, indemnities, limitations of liability and other provisions of these terms and conditions continue after termination of your access or usage. ‘GTF’ will not be liable to you or any third-party for this termination. If your user access is terminated, you may not re-enter ‘GTF’ without express permission from ‘GTF’.

11. Governing Law, Jurisdiction, General Provisions

11.1 These terms of use constitute the entire agreement between you and ‘ GTF’ with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede and replace all prior or contemporaneous understandings or agreements, written or oral, regarding such subject matter. Any waiver of any provision of the terms and conditions by a party will be effective only if in writing and signed by a party.

11.2 These terms and conditions will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales, without giving effect to its conflict of laws provisions or your actual state or country of residence. The parties agree to submit to the personal and exclusive jurisdiction of the courts located in England & Wales. If for any reason a court of competent jurisdiction finds any provision or portion of these terms and conditions to be unenforceable, the remainder of the terms and conditions will continue in full force and effect. You shall not assign these terms and conditions or assign any rights or delegate any obligations hereunder, in whole or in part, whether voluntarily or by operation of law, without our prior written consent. Any such purported assignment or delegation will be null and void and of no force or effect. Without limiting the foregoing, under no circumstances shall ‘GTF’ be held liable for any delay or failure in performance resulting directly or indirectly from acts of nature, forces, or causes beyond its reasonable control, including, without limitation, Internet failures, computer equipment failures, software failures, telecommunication equipment failures, other equipment failures, electrical power failures, strikes, labour disputes, riots, insurrections, civil disturbances, shortages of labour or materials, fires, floods, storms, explosions, acts of God, war, governmental actions, orders of domestic or foreign courts or tribunals, non-performance of third parties, or loss of or fluctuations in heat, light, or air conditioning.

11.3 You and ‘GTF’ agree to submit to the personal and exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of the UK. The failure of ‘GTF’ to exercise or enforce any right or provision of the aforementioned Terms shall not constitute a waiver of such right or provision. If any provision of the Terms is found by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, the parties nevertheless agree that the court should endeavour to give effect to the parties’ intentions as reflected in the provision, and all other provisions of the Terms remain in full force and effect. You agree that regardless of any statute or law to the contrary, any claim or cause of action arising out of or related to use of the Service or the Terms must be filed within one (1) year after such claim or cause of action arose or be forever barred. The section titles in the Terms are for convenience only and have no legal or contractual effect.

12. Content

Whilst every effort has been taken to verify the accuracy of the information published on www.globalthinkersforum.orgwww.globalthinkersmentors.org, www.athena40.org and www.athena40forum.com, neither Global Thinkers Forum Ltd nor its affiliates can accept any responsibility or liability for reliance by any person on this information, opinions or conclusions set out in our content. The OP-EDs, interviews and articles express the views of their writers and/or participants and are not necessarily the views of the Sites, its Founders, executives and affiliates.

13. Safeguarding Adults Policy Statement

This policy will enable GLOBAL THINKERS FORUM, GLOBAL THINKERS MENTORS & ATHENA40 to demonstrate its commitment to keeping safe the vulnerable adults with whom it works alongside. GLOBAL THINKERS FORUM, GLOBAL THINKERS MENTORS & ATHENA40 acknowledge its duty to act appropriately to any allegations, reports or suspicions of abuse.

It is important to have the policy and procedures in place so that staff, mentors, volunteers, service users and carers, and management committee can work to prevent abuse and know what to do in the event of abuse.

The Policy Statement and Procedures have been drawn up in order to enable Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40 to:

  • promote good practice and work in a way that can prevent harm, abuse and coercion occurring.
  • to ensure that any allegations of abuse or suspicions are dealt with appropriately and the person experiencing abuse is supported.
  • and to stop that abuse occurring.

The Policy and Procedures relate to the safeguarding of vulnerable adults. Vulnerable adults are defined as:

  • People aged 18 or over
  • Who are receiving or may need community care services because of learning, physical or mental disability, age, or illness
  • Who are or may be unable to take care of him or herself, or unable to protect him or herself against significant harm or exploitation.

                                                                                                                                    (No Secrets, Department of Health, 2000)

The policy applies to all staff, including senior managers, management committee members, trustees, paid staff, volunteers, sessional workers, agency staff, students and anyone working on behalf of Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40

It is acknowledged that significant numbers of vulnerable adults are abused and it is important that Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40 has a Safeguarding Adults Policy, a set of procedures to follow and puts in place preventative measures to try and reduce those numbers.

In order to implement the policy the Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40 will work:

  • to promote the freedom and dignity of the person who has or is experiencing abuse
  • to promote the rights of all people to live free from abuse and coercion
  • to ensure the safety and well being of people who do not have the capacity to decide how they want to respond to abuse that they are experiencing 
  • to manage services in a way which promotes safety and prevents abuse
  • recruit staff and volunteers safely, ensuring all necessary checks are made
  • provide effective management for staff and volunteers through supervision, support and training

Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40:

  • will ensure that all management committee members, trustees, staff, volunteers, service users, and carers/families are familiar with this policy and procedures
  • will work with other agencies within the framework of the Newcastle Safeguarding Adults Policy and Procedures, issued under No Secrets guidance (Department of Health, 2000)
  • will act within its confidentiality policy and will usually gain permission from service users before sharing information about them with another agency
  • will pass information to Adult and Culture Services when more than one person is at risk. For example: if the concern relates to a worker, volunteer or organisation who provides a service to vulnerable adults or children
  • will inform service users that where a person is in danger, a child is at risk or a crime has been committed then a decision may be taken to pass information to another agency without the service user’s consent
  • will make a referral to the Adult Social Care Direct team as appropriate
  • will endeavor to keep up to date with national developments relating to preventing abuse and welfare of adults
  • will ensure that the Designated Named Person understands his/her responsibility to refer incidents of adult abuse to the relevant statutory agencies (Police/Adult and Culture Services Directorate)

The Designated Named Person for Safeguarding Adults in Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40 is name and/or role and contact details

They should be contacted for support and advice on implementing this policy and procedures.

This policy is public and is kept online.

 

Procedures Template

1.Introduction

Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40 provides a mentoring service to young people aged between 18-29. These procedures have been designed to ensure the welfare and protection of any adult who accesses services provided by Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40. The procedures recognise that adult abuse can be a difficult subject for workers to deal with. Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40 is committed to the belief that the protection of vulnerable adults from harm and abuse is everybody’s responsibility and the aim of these procedures is to ensure that all managers, trustees of the organisation, management committee members, staff and volunteers act appropriately in response to any concern around adult abuse.

 

2.Preventing abuse

Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40 is committed to putting in place safeguards and measures to reduce the likelihood of abuse taking place within the services it offers and that all those involved within Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40 will be treated with respect.

Therefore this policy needs to be read in conjunction with the following policies:

Equal Rights and Diversity

Volunteers

Complaints

Whistle Blowing

Confidentiality

Disciplinary and Grievance

Data Protection

Recruitment and Selection

Any other policies which are relevant that the organisation has in place (e.g. Challenging Behaviour, Handling Money)

Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40 is committed to safer recruitment policies and practices for paid staff, trustees and volunteers. This may include CRB disclosures for staff and volunteers, ensuring references are taken up and adequate training on Safeguarding Adults is provided for staff and volunteers.

Management committee members/trustees will be required to provide two references and where appropriate have a Criminal Records Bureau disclosure.

The organisation will work within the current legal framework for reporting staff or volunteers that are abusers.

Service users will be encouraged to become involved with the running of the organisation. Information will be available about abuse and the complaints policy and the Safeguarding Adults policy statement will be available to service users and their carers/families.

 

3.Recognising the signs and symptoms of abuse

Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40 is committed to ensuring that all staff, the management committee, mentors, advisors, partners, trustees and volunteers undertake training to gain a basic awareness of signs and symptoms of abuse. Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40 will ensure that the Designated Named Person and other members of staff, trustees and volunteers have access to training around Safeguarding Adults.

“Abuse is a violation of an individual’s human and civil rights by any other person or persons” (No Secrets: Department of Health, 2000) 

Abuse includes:

physical abuse: including hitting, slapping, punching, burning, misuse of medication, inappropriate restraint

sexual abuse: including rape, indecent assault, inappropriate touching, exposure to pornographic material

psychological or emotional abuse: including belittling, name calling, threats of harm, intimidation, isolation

financial or material abuse: including stealing, selling assets, fraud, misuse or misappropriation of property, possessions or benefits

neglect and acts of omission: including withholding the necessities of life such as medication, food or warmth, ignoring medical or physical care needs

discriminatory abuse: including racist, sexist, that based on a person’s disability and other forms of harassment, slurs or similar treatment

institutional or organisational: including regimented routines and cultures, unsafe practices, lack of person-centred care or treatment

Abuse may be carried out deliberately or unknowingly. Abuse may be a single act or repeated acts.
People who behave abusively come from all backgrounds and walks of life. They may be doctors, nurses, social workers, advocates, staff members, volunteers or others in a position of trust. They may also be relatives, friends, neighbours or people who use the same services as the person experiencing abuse.

 

4.Designated Named Person for safeguarding adults

Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40 has an appointed individual who is responsible for dealing with any Safeguarding Adults concerns. In their absence, a deputy will be available for workers to consult with. The Designated Named Person(s) for Safeguarding Adults within Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40 is/are: 

Elizabeth Filippouli

info@globalthinkersforum.org

+44(0)8456347820

The roles and responsibilities of the named person(s) are:

to ensure that all staff including volunteers and Board Members are aware of what they should do and who they should go to if they have concerns that a vulnerable adult may be experiencing, or has experienced abuse or neglect.

to ensure that concerns are acted on, clearly recorded and referred to an Adult Social Care Direct team or to the allocated social worker/care manager where necessary.

to follow up any referrals and ensure the issues have been addressed.

consider any recommendations from the Safeguarding Adults process

to reinforce the utmost need for confidentiality and to ensure that staff and volunteers are adhering to good practice with regard to confidentiality and security. This is because it is around the time that a person starts to challenge abuse that the risks of increasing intensity of abuse are greatest.

to ensure that staff and volunteers working directly with service users who have experienced abuse, or who are experiencing abuse, are well supported and receive appropriate supervision.

if appropriate staff or volunteers will be given support and afforded protection if necessary under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998: they will be dealt with in a fair and equitable manner and they will be kept informed of any action that has been taken and its outcome.

 

5.Responding to people who have experienced or are experiencing abuse

Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40 recognises that it has a duty to act on reports, or suspicions of abuse or neglect. It also acknowledges that taking action in cases of adult abuse is never easy.

How to respond if you receive an allegation:

Reassure the person concerned

Listen to what they are saying

Record what you have been told/witnessed as soon as possible

Remain calm and do not show shock or disbelief

Tell them that the information will be treated seriously

Don’t start to investigate or ask detailed or probing questions

Don’t promise to keep it a secret

If you witness abuse or abuse has just taken place the priorities will be:

To call an ambulance if required

To call the police if a crime has been committed

To preserve evidence

To keep yourself, staff, volunteers and service users safe

To inform the Designated Named Person in your organisation

To record what happened in name of place/file/log where safeguarding adults concerns will be recorded

All situations of abuse or alleged abuse will be discussed with the Designated Named Person or their deputy. If a member of the management committee, a trustee, staff member or volunteer feels unable to raise this concern with the Designated Named Person or their deputy then concerns can be raised directly with Adult Social Care Direct. The alleged victim will be told that this will happen. This stage is called the alert.

If it is appropriate and there is consent from the individual, or there is a good reason to override consent, such as risk to others, a referral (alert) will be made to Adult Social Care Direct team.

If the individual experiencing abuse does not have capacity to consent a referral will be made without that person’s consent, in their best interests.

The Designated Named Person may take advice at the above stage from Adult Social Care Direct and/or the Safeguarding Adults Unit and/or other advice giving organisations such as Police.

 

Adult Social Care Direct

Phone: 0191 278 8377

Fax: 0191 278 8312

Available: Monday-Friday 8am-6pm

 

Safeguarding Adults Unit

Phone: 0191 278 8156

Fax: 0191 278 8102

Available: Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning, 9.30am-12.00noon.

Please note that this is an advice service ONLY. All alerts should be raised with Adult Social Care Direct.

 

Raising a Safeguarding Adults Alert

All safeguarding adults alerts (referrals) should be made by telephone to Adult Social Care Team.

    Call 020 7332 1224 - 9am - 5pm, Monday to Friday.
    Call 020 8356 2300 - for all other times, including weekends and Bank Holidays

A Safeguarding Adults Manager (a Team Manager from Adult and Culture Services) will then decide if the safeguarding process should be instigated or if other support/services are appropriate. Feedback will be given to the person who raised the safeguarding adults alert.

The Designated Named Person will have an overview of this process so they can explain it to the person concerned and offer all relevant support to the person and process. This could be practical support e.g. providing a venue, or information and reports and emotional support.

Information should be provided to the individual. This could be about other sources of help or information that could enable them to decide what to do about their experience, enable them to recover from their experience and enable them to seek justice.
For more details visit: https://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/services/social-care-for-adults/safeguarding-adults

 

6.Managing allegation made against member of staff or volunteer

Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40 will ensure that any allegations made against members or member of staff will be dealt with swiftly.

Where a member of staff/volunteer is thought to have committed a criminal offense the police will be informed. If a crime has been witnessed the police should be contacted immediately.

The safety of the individual(s) concerned is paramount. A risk assessment must be undertaken immediately to assess the level of risk to all service users posed by the alleged perpetrator. This will include whether it is safe for them to continue in their role or any other role within the service whilst the investigation is undertaken.

The Designated Named Person will liaise with Adult Social Care Direct to discuss the best course of action and to ensure that the Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40’s disciplinary procedures are coordinated with any other enquiries taking place as part of the ongoing management of the allegation.

Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40 has a whistle blowing policy and staff are aware of this policy. Staff will be supported to use this policy.

 

7.Recording and managing confidential information

Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40 is committed to maintaining confidentiality wherever possible and information around Safeguarding Adults' issues should be shared only with those who need to know. For further information, please see Global Thinkers Forum, Global Thinkers Mentors & Athena40 confidentiality policy.

All allegations/concerns should be recorded in name of place/file/log where safeguarding adults concerns will be recorded. The information should be factual and not based on opinions, record what the person tells you, what you have seen and witnesses if appropriate.

The information that is recorded will be kept secure and will comply with data protection.

This information will be secured in a locked filing cabinet/ or stored safely online in the organisation. Access to this information will be restricted to the Designated Named Person and the organisation’s CEO Elizabeth Filippouli.

 

8.Disseminating/Reviewing policy and procedures

This Safeguarding Adults Policy and Procedure will be clearly communicated to staff, trustees, volunteers, service users, parents and carers. The Designated Named Person will be responsible for ensuring that this is done.

The Safeguarding Adults Policy and Procedures will be reviewed annually by the Advisory Board. The Designated Named Person for Safeguarding Adults will be involved in this process and can recommend any changes. The Designated Named Person will also ensure that any changes are clearly communicated to staff, trustees and volunteers. It may be appropriate to involve service users in the review and service users and parents/carers need to be informed of any significant changes.