Guide and resources centre

Changing conversations explores the current approach to online risks faced by vulnerable children and how regulators, professionals and parents/carers can change these practises to better support these children.

This version of ‘So you got naked online…’ is a resource that helps and advises young people who may find themselves in a situation where they (or a friend) have put a sexting image or video online and have lost control over that content and who it’s being shared with.

All young people, including those who are LGBTQ+ and those who are not, should be supported to browse the internet safely – there are inherent risks for all young people, and for LGBTQ young people these can include exposure to inappropriate content or bad advice around exploring their sexual orientation and identity.

Online gaming is incredibly popular among children and young people. Whether it is through phones and mobile devices, PCs, or games consoles, most children and young people will have experience in gaming online.

For LGBTQ+ children and young people, connecting and sharing online can be a vital way to interact with peers, educate themselves, and find solutions to issues that friends or family may not understand. However, there are also areas of risk for young people within the LGBTQ+ community when interacting online.

Children and young people with care experience using the internet and social media share the same risks and benefits as any young person growing up today. However, their previous lived experiences, their placement moves, and changes in caregivers disadvantage them in ways that can make them more susceptible to those risks.

To help children and young people with care experience to stay safe while browsing online, we have provided insight and advice on what you can do as a parent or carer to support them.

Gaming is a major part of children and young people’s lives today and those with experience of living in care are no exception. They provide children and young people with entertainment, relationship building, learning, and development opportunities. However, there are also risks to their safety, mental, and physical health to consider.

To encourage children and young people with SEND, get the best out of their gameplay and reduce potential risks, use this advice on strategies you can use to ensure it has a positive impact on their wellbeing.

To help CYP with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) browse safely online, we’ve provided a range of practical things you can do to equip them to do it safely.

To help children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) connect and share safely with others online, we’ve provided insight and advice on what you can do as a parent or carer to support them.

Written by specialists, the Index of Harms highlights the indicators and behaviours that may be of concern and offers suggested intervention and escalations.