Online health

Staying safe online

Technology is always changing, and children are using the internet and social media more than ever.

Top tips for staying safe online:

Think before you post - once something is online, it can be very hard to make it private again.
Don’t share personal information, such as your school name, home address or phone number.
Be careful about who you talk to - not everyone is who they say they are online, so only talk to people you know and who are your age.
Use strong passwords and use different passwords for different accounts.
Cover your web camera when you’re not using it.

For more information about online safety

Gaming

Online gaming is very popular with children and young people. It can be a fun way to relax, make friends and learn new skills. But it can also become unhealthy if it takes up too much time.

For more advice about gaming, including how to talk to your child about it, you can visit:

Gambling

Gambling in the UK is illegal for anyone under 18, but online gambling has become very easy to access. Sometimes websites do not check a person’s age properly, which means under-18s might still be able to use them.

For more information about gambling and online gaming, including how to talk to your child about gambling, you can visit the website - Gambling Commission: Gambling and young people.

GamCare runs the National Gambling Helpline. They offer information, advice and support for anyone affected by gambling. Advisers are available 24 hours a day by phone on Freephone 0808 8020 133, or through web chat.

You can also find information especially for young people, parents and teachers. Young people are also welcome to contact their services for support.