The online world is integral to how children stay in touch with their friends, and access to the internet is now available like never before. However, there are inherent risks associated with new technologies and it is essential for young people and their parents / carers to understand how to reduce these risks.
Most young people have a wide variety of ways that they can go online and talk to their friends and other people. Smart phones, tablets, PCs, laptops, iPods, Xbox etc. are all readily available to young people.
Unfortunately, due to this easy availability, it is very difficult to supervise access and therefore very difficult to make sure we are keeping them safe.
Many young people are aware of the possible dangers on the Internet, but unfortunately to many of them think that it won’t happen to them.
Below are a number of links to different websites which give advice to parents/carers and young people on how to stay safe on line. Please take the time to have a look and then follow the advice. You can also read more by clicking here.
Action for Children supports and speaks out for the UK’s most vulnerable and neglected children and young people, for as long as it takes to make a difference in their lives.
The Child Exploitation and Online Protection (CEOP) Centre is part of UK law enforcement.
Childnet International, a non-profit organisation working with others to “help make the Internet a great and safe place for children”.
Facebook’s own page explaining its privacy settings to users.
Get Safe Online is a UK-based website offering factual and easy-to-understand information on online safety.
Think U Know is a Guide to Internet safety and safe surfing. The information on the site is targeted at all different age ranges as well as advice for parents and carers and teachers. The site is run by CEOP.
