In digital safeguarding we know that standing still is falling behind. Our team of online safety experts have been working tirelessly to make sure you have the right information in your pocket, when you need it. 

In the last few weeks there have been a number of major changes to the most popular social media platforms including Instagram, WhatsApp, Snapchat and TikTok. These platforms might not look much different to the average user, but these changes alter the very nature of the online experience for children and young people.

The changing functionality of these platforms means that the online risk to children and young people changes. These changes have come at a time when young people have been spending even more time online in the midst of recurring pandemic restrictions.

As platforms evolve, so do the risks to children and young people online

Members of our network have told us that these changes can feel daunting and new risks can leave them feeling overwhelmed and worried about the children and young people in our care. We have compiled a list of advice, resources and guidance to support you to get to grips with these recent changes.

There’s now an unprecedented demand for safeguarding information, advice and guidance from parents, carers and safeguarding professionals. But this appetite has facilitated an increase in non-traditional outlets sharing and or re-sharing information without fact checking. 

It remains vital that those responsible for safeguarding children have access to the correct  information so they do not miss vital opportunities to protect the children and young people in their care from harm. Make sure you get your information from a reputable source.

It’s important to recognise the value of regularly talking to children about being safer online. We know that parents, carers and safeguarding professionals already know how to talk to children about online risks. But they’re often concerned that they might not have the right information, or know enough about the issues to address online risks. 

Our team of online safety experts stress test popular platforms and create risk assessments to inform your conversations with those you care about. You can access Our Online Safety Centre, which provides safety cards for popular platforms and walkthroughs of safety and privacy settings.