County Derry children given internet safety talk by the PSNI
Children from two schools were given a talk on safer internet use on Tuesday, February 7th, to coincide with national internet safety day.
Const. Martin Allen, Schools Liaison Officer said: "This was a safety workshop, which has been funded by the PCSP here in Mid Ulster and was delivered jointly by the PSNI and The Speedwell Trust.
“In previous years most internet access for young people was limited to the home or school however these days with the huge expansion in the availability and affordability of mobile internet enabled devices such as tablets and smartphones this is not the case. Children are able to go online practically anywhere and they are becoming web-savvy at a much earlier age. As a result many children unwittingly find themselves in risky situations when online whether by sharing inappropriate images of themselves or being contacted by a stranger. Others engage in potentially criminal activities and online bullying not realising the impact it can have on their 'real' lives. It is important therefore that we educate children about the internet. We're also encouraging parents to take an active role. Find out what children are up to online and make sure you talk to them about how they use their social networks or any other accounts. Parents can also consider setting up parental controls on devices connected to the internet to restrict the kinds of sites children can access. We hope this workshop helped parents and children understand this issue.”
Chair of Mid Ulster PCSP Cllr Frances Burton said “Mid Ulster Policing & Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) are delighted to be involved in this very important internet safety project. This programme will help to inform parents of the dangers of the internet and will assist them to put appropriate measures in place to protect their children. Internet safety is a priority for Mid Ulster PCSP and we strive to make our community safer by implementing programmes such as this.”