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ODA Associate Relationship Explained

 

ODA Associate Relationship

The ODA exists to ensure standards are set and maintained in the online dating sector, to give the industry an effective and collective voice with government, search and social network providers, media and others. We share information on research, legal, commercial and other developments affecting the sector. We create opportunities for networking across the dating community. We want to build high levels of trust and an environment where business can invest and innovate. 

The ODA was set up by online dating providers and the ODA Code is directed at providers of dating services. But there are a broad range of parties with a commercial interest in the sector and its health and strength. The ODA is offering a new associate relationship with such businesses. The associate relationship allows businesses to:
 
  1. Benefit generally from the ODA as an effective collective voice, diffusing possible criticism and celebrating the economic and social significance of the sector.
  2. Participate at ODA events without charge, allowing networking and learning opportunities.
  3. Receive ODA briefing and other alerts and materials on legislative, media and other matters.
  4. Enjoy managed access to research, guidance and information hosted in member-only space on the ODA website.
  5. Enjoy any membership benefits on offer to ODA members, including legal helpline support and support at potentially discounted rates.
  6. Use of the ODA logo as a demonstration of the business’ commitment to standards and public protection and to have a listing and link on the ODA’s site.
  7. Have at least one opportunity annually for those with a significant UK market presence to offer ODA members the opportunity to attend an event, briefing or other function of relevance to them as dating providers.
An Associate relationship helps strengthen the ODA’s capacity and capability to speak for the sector and help protect and grow a healthy market. For those with interests in several jurisdictions a strong ODA could, in time, prove a model that delivers those same benefits overseas.

The UK dating sector has grown steadily in the past. Online and social network dating is part of everyday life for millions. But the sector has still to achieve the levels of recognition and acceptance that should come with this presence. In its first two years the ODA has established a Code of Practice and seen this applied across the membership. It has engaged with the Police, the Information Commissioner, Internet Service Providers, public protection charities, the media and government to ensure the sector and its needs are understood. It has hosted member events on consumer protection law, data protection, scam prevention and cross border tax law changes. It has focused on the issues of personal safety and scam prevention online producing new guidance and seeking to prevent harm by better information sharing with users and plans for information sharing across the membership. The ODA has a partnership arrangement with Wiggin LLP who have supported various events and who offer a free legal hot-line and services to members on special terms.
 
ODA Associate status is available to businesses that share the objectives in this note. Associates are not “members” and are not bound by the full Code of Practice but their services and actions must never bring the reputation of the ODA or industry into disrepute but reflect a shared commitment to standards and user trust. 

Associate arrangements are through an annual fee that should reflect the Associate’s size and level of involvement with the dating sector. Businesses wishing to discuss this opportunity should contact the ODA at ann@onlinedatingassociation.org.uk.

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