Delph Side Primary School in Skelmersdale has apologised after facing criticism for a social media policy that appeared to permit teachers to use OnlyFans, a platform widely associated with adult content. The headteacher acknowledged the wording was outdated and did not reflect the platform's current reputation.
Policy Documents Spark Parental Concern
Parents raised concerns after reviewing the school's publicly available social media policy, which listed OnlyFans alongside platforms like Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Snapchat. The policy stated that it would not be reasonable to expect employees to avoid these sites and that appropriate use could have professional benefits.
One parent told the ECHO: "I find it disturbing that my child's school has a 'social networking and use of social media policy' that includes teachers' use of OnlyFans. It reads to me that it is acceptable for teachers to be on it. I find it odd to refer to OnlyFans as social media."
Headteacher Apologises and Explains Oversight
Liz Ormerod, headteacher of Delph Side Primary, apologised for the concern caused. She explained that the reference to OnlyFans was part of a generic list taken from local authority guidance several years ago. Although the school's social media policy was updated in 2025, this section had not been revised since 2022.
Ms Ormerod stated: "The wording is out of date and does not reflect the platform's current association with adult content. The reference does not mean the school endorses or approves use of the platform by staff."
Policy Updated but Online Documents Still Show Old Version
Ms Ormerod confirmed that the policy has now been updated to remove the OnlyFans reference and ensure it reflects current expectations. However, as of Thursday evening, July 16, the online policy documents still included the outdated wording. She added: "All staff are expected to maintain the highest professional standards at all times and are subject to strict safeguarding and conduct requirements. We apologise for any concern this may have caused."
