HOW YOU CAN HELP

Kate Edwards, NSPCC Online Safety and Net Aware Partnership manager, says, “All children will respond differently if they are being bullied, but signs you can look out for include them not wanting to go to school or take part in normal activities, getting anxious or angry if you go near their phones or computers and having problems sleeping or eating – as well as having outbursts that seem out of character.” When trying to help, follow the TEAM approach:

T ALK ABOUT STAYING SAFE ONLINE

Let them know they can come to you or another trusted adult if they’re feeling worried or upset by anything they have seen or by anyone they are talking to online. Remind them that if they ever see or experience bullying, then you are there to listen and support them.

E XPLORE THEIR ONLINE WORLD TOGETHER

Understand why they like playing certain games and make sure they know what they can do to keep themselves safe. Also take time to explore the safety features on the apps and games your child is using so they know where to find them and how to use them.

A GREE RULES ABOUT WHAT’S OK AND WHAT’S NOT

Decide on your own rules as a family when using social networks, apps and games.

M ANAGE YOUR FAMILY’S SETTINGS AND CONTROLS

Monitor your technology and use the settings available to keep your child safe. Visit NSPCC.org.uk for help with parental controls and safety settings on your child’s favourite app, site or game.

● Anti-Bullying Week runs from Monday 16 November to Friday 20 November. For more information, go to Anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk/anti-bullying-week