My Reasons for Creating a 'Secret' Group Blog

Earlier this year I was asked to volunteer helping a group of 'extra-care' residents access the internet, helping them use a pc, laptop, mobile phone, ipad, basically anything that has internet access.

The residents had only had instruction from their digital inclusion project leader for a few months but had already got a fascination with the internet and how to use it. They needed help in 'moving around' the internet, using their equipment, learning how to access websites and finding out the benefits of using the internet and certain sites.

Most of them had a Facebook account, which had been set up for them by family or friends. But they were very wary of using Facebook and the amount of people who were able to see their information and being approached by 'strangers on the net'. Some also did not see any benefit in using Facebook.

As a group we worked together helping the residents set up their security settings to Friends/Friends & Family only, preventing unwanted contact from people they dont know.

I then thought it would be nice for the residents to have their own 'Group' on Facebook either as a 'Closed' or 'Secret' Group. A place where they could 'hangout' and chat, share photos and their news. And if for some reason they could not come down to their communal lounge for a digital inclusion session they could still log on to the group and join in the session from their accommodation. For those residents who live alone it also meant they could log on the group during evenings when they want to be cosy in their homes but still have company. The group could also be used as a central contact for informing the residents of what will be happening that current week during their digital inclusion sessions.

I spent a lesson with them discussing what a 'Secret' Group on Facebook was and the benefits of it to them. A place basically where they could almost 'hide' on Facebook but still be sociable with each other, speak more freely without having others on Facebook contribute to their posts and comments.

They loved the idea! So I then set up a Secret Group for the residents. There are eleven members in the group, so far. We even have one or two members who were not so keen on joining now join, also one or two who initially did not want their photo put up now asking for us to help them upload their photo to their account.

The group is in its early days, so to help them along I have posted the odd photo to make it more visual for them and asked them questions to encourage them to start posting and not just read.

I am hoping once they are more confident using the group that I can just stand back and let them take control.

Setting up your Group on Facebook

You are now ready to set up your group on Facebook.

Firstly you will need a name for your group. You may want the name to relate to the subject of the group or maybe just have a nickname or title that the members will relate to or remember.

You will have to select which type of group you would like to create. You can choose from an 'Open', 'Closed' or 'Secret' Group.

The following information may help you decide which type of group you would like to create.



You need to consider why you are using a group and what the members would like from the group.

Setting Up a Facebook Group for Your Class - A simple and quick explaination

Facebook Privacy Settings 2012 Part 1 of 2

Security and Safety on Facebook

Now you have your Facebook account up and running you will be thinking about internet safety, and who you want to share your Facebook information with. It is wise to go through your security settings on your Facebook account and restrict who views your information and posts. e-Crime Wales have an excellent video that explains Facebook security settings and I will post it for you to help you through the process.

How To Setup a Facebook Account / Profile - Here is a video I found that will help you join Facebook

Requirements for a 'Closed or Secret' Group page on Facebook

Here is a list of minimal requirements required for a Closed or Secret Group Page on Facebook:

1 People interested in joining the group.
2 Access to the internet.
3 PC or Mobile Phone or other equipment that has internet available.
4 Facebook Account.
5 Members who are willing to act as Admin to monitor the Group Page and to Approve New Members to the Group.