A new scheme focused on internet safety classes for Northamptonshire kids will start on Monday (February 7).
With the likes of TikTok and Fortnite more popular than ever, keeping children protected while online is increasingly important.
Supporting young people around healthy relationships, mental health and wellbeing is the focus of the national Safer Internet Day 2022.
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North Northamptonshire Council, West Northamptonshire Council and Northamptonshire Police have come together to host two events aimed at discussing relevant issues.
Experts will be on hand to answer queries on how to maximise internet safeguarding.
Parents, professionals and teachers are invited to ask anything about safeguarding children and young people online on an Instagram Q&A session.
Simon Aston, the county’s online safety and wellbeing officer, will be answering questions from 4pm on Monday, February 7 and you can search ncccybersafe on Instagram to take part.
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On Safer Internet Day itself, February 8, anyone who works with young people and children can take part in a dedicated webinar.
Expert speakers will be delivering presentations via Zoom on gangs, child sexual exploitation, peer on peer abuse and digital resilience.
Cllr Scott Edwards, North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive Member for Children, Families, Education and Skills, said: “The internet is constantly evolving and it’s hard to keep up to date with the rapid pace of change.
“I think we all have questions about what is safe online and what isn’t.
“I’m delighted that such a dedicated panel of experts has been assembled to offer their advice and I’m pleased that we have been able to work with our partners to support this important issue.”
Anyone who would like to find out more information about booking on to the event can go to Eventbrite.
People can also show their support for Safer Internet Day and obtain resources for schools or organisations by signing up to the UK Safer Internet Centre.
Cllr Fiona Baker, WNC’s Cabinet Member for children, families and education, said: “The lines between the virtual and real-world continue to blur.
“If we want young people to thrive, we need to educate them and those who look after them, about the rights and wrongs of going online.
“It’s no different these days to road safety, only it’s the green cross code of the internet.”
A Northamptonshire Police spokeswoman added: “Online safety is a really important subject and Safer Internet Day is, therefore, a great opportunity for parents and guardians to speak with their children about the importance of staying safe online.
“As police officers, we know all too well the dangers that exist online and in fact, have a team dedicated to investigating illegal behaviour and individuals who would look to use the internet in order to target and groom children.
“It’s so important to make your children aware of these dangers by starting open conversations early on that build trust and rely on mutual understanding as opposed to restrictions and secret-keeping.”
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