When we think about children and young people going online, often one of our main concerns is making sure that they are safe and have a positive experience. We know there is a range of online harms that they might come across, from bullying, online pornography, sexual exploitation and abuse, to content promoting self-harm or eating disorders.

As parents/carers and professionals working with children and young people, we need the tips and tools to be able to help them in their safe digital exploration. Ahead of Safer Internet Day on the 6th of February, we’re sharing 11 online safety resources to help you support children and young people to use digital technologies safely and positively.

Online Safety Resources

1. Get Safe Online

   

   The UK’s leading online safety advice resource.

2. UK Safer Internet Centre

   
   Helping children and young people stay safe online. Including guides and resources for a range of audiences from parents, education, social work, healthcare, and more.

3. Online Harms – Helplines, Websites, and Reporting

   

   A comprehensive document developed by the Mental Health Improvement Team at NHSGGC outlining the helplines, websites, and reporting mechanisms to support those who have experienced a variety of online harms.

4. Professionals Online Safety Helpline

   

   A free helpline from the UK Safer Internet Centre supporting professionals working with children and young people with any online safety issue they may be having. Monday – Friday during regular working hours: Call: 0344 381 4772

5. Safer Internet Day Educational Resources

   
   Educational resources from the UK Safer Internet Centre which are tailored for different age groups. The resources include activities, stories, worksheets, group discussions, assemblies, and supporting slides.

6. Relationships, Sexual Health, and Parenthood

   

   A national resource for early learning settings, schools, colleges, and community-based learning. Includes information on a range of online safety topics.

7. Social Media Privacy Setting Guides

   

   Created by Internet Matters sharing how to keep children and young people safe on all of the popular devices and platforms.

8. Online Safety Guidance and Resources

   

   A variety of online safety resources, guidance, and training from the NSPCC. Covers the 4Cs of online safety, and how to protect children and young people from online harms, amongst other topics.

9. Online Safety Resources

   

   Printable online safety leaflets and resources from Internet Matters for children and young people of all ages.

10. Online Safety Training

    

    A CPD-certified online safety training from the NSPCC to help build confidence to keep children safe online and respond appropriately to concerns (£30 per person, online).

11. Online Safety Live Events

    

    Free online safety events from the UK Safer Internet Centre sharing the latest research, legislation, technology, tools, and resources. Events are held across Scotland, including South Lanarkshire, East Lothian, and Midlothian from February – March 2024.

Download a copy

You can download a copy of these Online Safety resources to refer back to at a later time:

Online Safety Resource