📅 Safer Internet Day – Keeping Children Safe Online

Good Afternoon,

Yesterday was Safer Internet Day, an annual event that promotes the safe and positive use of digital technology for children and young people. It’s a reminder of how important it is for all of us—parents, carers, schools, and communities—to help young people navigate the online world confidently and safely.

Over the last two days, officers from the Sevenoaks Child Centred Policing Team, have been working with schools across the district, delivering inputs and speaking with pupils about online safety.

Our focus has been on helping young people understand how to use the internet responsibly, make safe choices, and know where to turn if something doesn’t feel right.

The internet has huge benefits—for learning, communication, creativity and fun. With the right guidance and awareness, children can enjoy these opportunities safely.

👪 Advice for Parents & Carers

We encourage all parents and carers to take a moment to review what their children are doing online and make use of practical guidance available.

Simple steps like setting privacy controls, talking openly about online behaviour, and knowing how to report concerns can make a big difference.

Here are some trusted sources of support:

🔗 Internet Matters – practical advice for all age groups
https://www.internetmatters.org/

🔗 ThinkUKnow (CEOP) – guidance on online safety and reporting concerns
https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/

🔗 NSPCC Online Safety – advice for families, including guidance on apps and social media
https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-safety/

By working together, we can help ensure children enjoy the online world safely and positively.
 

Kind Regards

Claire