E-safety

 

The development and now widespread use of the Internet, mobile phone and gaming technology has significantly enhanced our ability to communicate, entertain and learn.

 

There are enormous benefits to using such digital and interactive technology, and as a result its use is widespread in schools, other educational settings including youth clubs, libraries, cafes, and hotels, as well as in the home.

 

However, there are risks to all of us who use digital and interactive technology and we have a responsibility, therefore, to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and young people and help them develop the skills to look after themselves.

 

We also have a responsibility to take action against those who harm children and young people via digital technology.

 

Much work has already been done in schools, with teachers, pupils, and to a lesser extent - parents, to raise awareness of the risks associated with using digital technology. The challenge for us now is to roll this out to the wider community, whilst at the same time keeping abreast of new technological developments.

 

This is particularly important when the majority of children and young people often have more experience and confidence in using such technologies than their parents or other responsible adults.

 

Sheffield Safeguarding Children Board (SSCB) is coordinating the e-safety approach in the City. This is led by the SSCB E-safety Task Group, which has developed their Terms of Reference, an E-safety Strategy, and is currently developing a protocol for use by practitioners (please see documents below). We also produce a six monthly e-safety newsletter (see attachment below).

 

For other resources and guidance visit the Yorkshire and Humberside Grid for Learning website

Julia Codman, E-safety Project Manager and SSCB E-safety Lead Officer on (0114) 273 6945 or email Julia.Codman@sheffield.gov.uk  or Angie Heal, Policy Development Coordinator on (0114) 273 5195 or email Angie.Heal@sheffield.gov.uk

 

The SSCB E-safety Programme is in development. More information will be added to these pages. Please contact Julia or Angie if you have any information you wish to include.