Online safety

The world is a wonderful place full of information and opportunities. It is the place where your children will express themselves, explore and be creative. They will also try new things, sometimes push boundaries and take risks. This document will provide you with some key links to help you support your child as they grow up.

Has someone acted inappropriately towards your child online?

If your child has experienced sexual or offensive chat that has made them feel uncomfortable or someone is trying to meet up with them, you can report this directly to the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP). This may have happened in a chat room, message board, instant message or on a social networking site. It could be on a mobile phone, games console or computer. It could be messages, images or conversations over webcam. The important thing is that if an adult is making inappropriate advances to your child on the internet you should report it to CEOP.

Make a CEOP Report – https://www.ceop.police.uk/Ceop-Report/.

If you or your child is in immediate danger call 999.

How can I help my child stay safe online?

For a wide range of information about keeping your child safe online visit https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/parents/.

Sexting help – So you got naked online? http://www.swgfl.org.uk/products-services/Online-Safety-Services/E-Safety-Resources/So-You-Got-Naked-Online/Content/Sexting-Toolkit.aspx.

What help can I get for my child?

If your child needs someone to talk to because something has upset them, it could be that they are being bullied or that they have seen something online which they wish they hadn’t. Children can ring NSPCC Childline on 0800 1111 and speak to trained counselors about any problems they may face or visit www.childline.org.uk.

Child sexual exploitation

Child sexual exploitation is a type of sexual abuse in which children are sexually exploited for money, power or status. Children or young people may be tricked into believing they’re in a loving, consensual relationship. They might be invited to parties and given drugs and alcohol. They may also be groomed online.

Find out more here:

Radicalisation

Parents can now call a free, 24-hour NSPCC helpline if they are concerned about their children becoming radicalised 0800 800 5000.

Counsellors from the NSPCC have been trained by experts from the Home Office to advise parents on how to spot signs of radicalisation in children who could fall victim to online groomers.

The helpline is also available for parents who want to know how to reassure children worried about terrorist attacks taking place.

Signs which may hint towards radicalisation in children:

  • They isolate themselves from family and friends;
  • They become disrespectful or ask inappropriate questions;
  • They seem to be more angry or aggressive;
  • They have an unhealthy obsession for websites about terrorists;
  • Their speech seems scripted when talking about radicalised ideas;
  • Children who may be targeted by online groomers;
  • Those with low self-esteem;
  • Those with a history of gang membership; and,
  • Those with a history of being bullying.

Wellbeing

Does your child need support with mental health and well being?

Please visit: