Internet Safety, Mental Health and Wellbeing
The Internet is often the most important place for young people to find out about the world, research information, socialise and find entertainment but we all need to be mindful of the risks online communication can pose.
Here are some tips from saferinternet.org.uk on how to stay safe, please visit their website for more information on how to follow this advice:
- Protect your online reputation – manage your digital footprints and ‘think before you post.’ Content posted online can last forever and could be shared publicly by anyone.
- Know where to find help – Understand how to report to service
- providers and use blocking and deleting tools. If something happens that upsets you online, it’s never too late to tell someone.
- Don’t give in to pressure – Keep calm and keep in control; once you’ve pressed send you can’t take it back.
- Respect the law – Use reliable services and know how to legally access the music, film and TV you want.
- Acknowledge your sources – Use trustworthy content and remember to give credit when using others’ work/ideas.
The CEOP ‘ThinkUKnow’ Site also has a wealth of information for parents and students:
If you have any concerns about behaviour online, you can report to the police via this link:
http://www.ceop.police.uk/safety-centre/
More information on keeping children safe whilst the access the internet:
Headstart Kernow Online Resilience Podcast (Opens link in Spotify)
Our Safeguarding and Student Support team have put together a bank of recommended resources which support young people with mental health and wellbeing.
Self-care resources created specifically for young people:
https://www.annafreud.org/on-my-mind/self-care/
Apps specifically for supporting young people with mental health and emotional wellbeing:
Young Minds have some resources that speak directly to young people:
YZUP Cornwall is a free and confidential support for young people in Cornwall around drugs and alcohol, offering support to make changes to their own substance use or to manage the impact of family members substance misuse.
Blogs on a range of issues to support parents: https://yzupblog.wixsite.com/yzupblog
Facebook page aimed at parents/carers and professionals: www.facebook.com/YZUPCornwall
We Are With You website with loads of information about getting help to cut down or stop using: www.wearewithyou.org.uk
Or call YZUP for advice or to make a referral: 01872 300816
Then of course there is Childline, who also have an app now called ForMe:
There is also a text number young people can use if they are in crisis simply by texting SHOUT to 85258
