When we think of dating apps like Tinder or platforms like eHarmony, we think about romantic experiences or funny dating disaster stories our friends have shared. What we don’t normally associate with dating platforms are children and young people. Dating apps are designed for adults but online dating culture has steadily become normalised as the socially acceptable way to connect with and meet others. These
The lockdown inevitably resulted in children and young people spending more time playing online games. Research conducted during the lockdown has found that over half of 13- to 18-year-olds prefer to keep in touch with friends via gaming than social media. In the past several years, the line between online gaming and online gambling has become even more blurred. There are also legitimate concerns that being introduced to gambling via
‘Let’s get to cunch-line’ From the Children’s Commissioners 2019 report ‘Gaming the System’ we know that around 93% of children in the UK play video games and this leisure time has benefits for their development. Despite these benefits, we know that some features of online games can and do present risks to children and
The Covid-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic has disrupted the lives of people all over the world, whilst bringing monumental change to how we teach and care for children and young people. Unfortunately, a major theme of the pandemic has been the spread of misinformation. The internet has played host to
It's Mental Health Awareness Week, which means it's the perfect time to check in with ourselves and others. But, it's important we don’t forget, we need to be aware of our mental health every week! That’s why we, at Ineqe Safeguarding Group, have made a Gratitude Journal for young people at home (and young
Key Points Gaming Disorder has been classified as a mental health condition by the World Health Organisation The NHS has launched a service to tackle gaming disorder Gaming Disorder has multiple symptoms including irritation and lack of sleep Young people with pre-existing mental conditions may be more susceptible
Whilst most of us are locked down in our homes, there may be a tendency to think that simply because we know exactly where they are, our children and young people are somehow safer. Sadly, the truth is they might not be. We know children are spending more time online than
As the Covid-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic develops further young people in your care will begin studying at home. The virus has brought monumental change to how we teach and care for children and young people. The virus presents a particular challenge for a lot of younger children