Kate’s the lady in red
DUKE AND DUCHESS ATTENDED EVENTS CONCERNING CHILDREN’S WELFARE AND TACKLING CYBER-BULLYING
CROWDS lined the streets of Manchester to welcome Prince William and Kate to the city.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were greeted by adults, children, and even Postman Pat, at the event yesterday to discuss what can be done about cyber-bullying.
Prince William spoke at the Children’s Global Media Summit at Manchester Central Convention Complex to look into ways of improving safety online for children.
The Duchess, who is expecting their third child next year, joined a discussion with Sesame Workshop, the charitable foundation for Sesame Street, and spoke about research commissioned into children’s emotional well-being.
Television presenter Nicky Campbell and McFly’s Tom Fletcher were also part of the discussion.
The visit comes after a new code of conduct was announced earlier this month by The Royal Foundation’s Taskforce on the Prevention of Cyber-bullying.
During his speech, Prince William praised Manchester after a difficult year and encouraged those at the summit to explore the city as it was ‘an example’ to all.
He spoke about the impact of social media on youngsters, including his own children, George and Charlotte.
He said: “Parents like Catherine and me are raising the first generation of digitally-immersed children – and this gives us many reasons to be optimistic about the impact of technology on childhood.”
Prince William added: “What we cannot do, however, is pretend that the impact of digital technology is all positive or, indeed, even understood. I am afraid to say that, as a parent, I believe we have grounds for concern.”
It took 18 months to create a plan of action to help reduce this which included standard guidelines for reporting and handling of bullying, a national advertising campaign to show what is and isn’t acceptable online behaviour, and an emotional support platform on social media for children. Prince William said: “What we have shown through the taskforce – and what we show when we gather on days like today – is that solutions to our challenges are possible when we work together.
“We can be optimistic about the way digital media will help our children when we can be frank about our concerns.
“Families can embrace technology with confidence when they can access the best support and advice.
“And we can be hopeful about the future of our society when we all know that protecting the essence of childhood remains our collective and urgent priority.”