Events aim to keep children safe from online abuse

Children will learn how online content affects identity, self-esteem and wellbeing

Schoolchildren will be learning about the potential dangers of social media and the online world through a series of events to be held in schools this autumn.

Mental health advocate Natasha Devon MBE will speak to young people across Jersey about the influence of social media, the impact of online content and the challenges of screen addiction and cyberbullying.

Later, a play commissioned by the NSPCC will tour 28 schools aiming to improve understanding about online safety and self-generated images.

The States of Jersey said the events were part of the work by Children, Young People, Education and Skills (CYPES) to support the wellbeing and online safety of young people across Jersey.

The States said Ms Devon's talk, "Phones, Social Media & Surviving the Online World", would be given to children in primary and secondary schools during the week starting 15 September.

Key themes will include the psychological design of social media platforms and how online content affects identity, self-esteem and wellbeing.

Later in September, the play called "The Net", which has been created by the NSPCC with input from young people, parents and professionals in Jersey, will tour schools.

'Shared responsibility'

It is part of a "Be The First Filter campaign" co-developed with Jersey parents, NSPCC Jersey and partners to improve understanding about online safety and self-generated images.

The NSPCC said the play follows the story of Sam, a popular girl who believes she is tech savvy, but whose life changes when she begins sharing images on platforms inappropriate for her age.

Each performance will be followed by a workshop co-facilitated by NSPCC Jersey and theatre staff.

Emma Motherwell, from NSPCC Jersey said: "Online safety is such a key issue right now.

"The worrying rise in the sharing of indecent images and image based sexual abuse online means this is something we all need to get to grips with and ensure that we, the adults, are the first filter for protecting young people.

"The reaction we have had to the campaign has been really positive and our parent campaign group has been really engaged in helping us to create a campaign which is right for Jersey."

David Goosey, chair of the Jersey Safeguarding Partnership, added: "Keeping children safe online is a shared responsibility.

"This campaign, and the powerful story told through The Net, will help children, parents and professionals in Jersey talk openly about risks, choices and consequences in the digital world."