The NSPCC joined forces with Hampshire Constabulary last week (Tuesday 26th June) to bring their first online safety workshop to the Isle of Wight.
Approximately 25 parents and carers attended a free hour-long workshop, which has been devised in partnership with O2, to help tackle the growing concerns of children’s safety online.
The evening started with the recently launched Megan’s Story campaign from Hampshire Constabulary which aimed to tackle the issue of children sending and sharing nude/sexual pictures online, followed by delivery of the NSPCC online safety workshop by NSPCC staff.
The evening was an opportunity to gain skills and knowledge to understand more about the internet and technology – from online games and cyber bullying, through to setting up privacy settings and controls – and to help parents have the right conversations with their children.
Speaking from Carisbrooke Church of England Primary School, Emma Motherwell, NSPCC Campaigns Manager, said:
“The online world can be unfamiliar and sometimes daunting to parents. But to protect our children it is vital that we understand technology and can have informed conversations with them about it.
“The workshop this evening has enabled parents to understand the internet as young people do and encouraged parents to talk to their children about the online world, its positives and its risks”.
Maria Carrick School & Youth Engagement Coordinator from Hampshire Constabulary said:
“We were delighted to collaborate with the NSPCC to deliver this event; the information and support jointly provided was very well received, demonstrating the value and the importance of professionals, parents and carers working together to keep children safe online.
“We would like to thank Carisbrooke Church of England Primary School for kindly hosting us”.
Local police officers and professionals were on hand to answer questions and offer support during and after the event.
