The internet is a great way to learn, explore and connect with each other. The digital age has developed at a rapid pace and presented wonderful opportunities for individuals, communities and businesses. However, it has also presented criminals with opportunities to exploit vulnerabilities and it is vital that all of us are aware of the risks in order to keep each other safe.

Banbridge Neighbourhood Sergeant Kevin Quinn and his team will be on hand to talk to the community (aged 13+) about E-Safety for Young People by empowering, educating and encouraging them and their families to be safe in their virtual world. The meeting will take place on Thursday 13th of February at 7pm in the school hall. 

This will be achieved by:

Empowering young people by

• Ensuring that they know who the Public Protection Branch are and how they keep people safe.
• Ensuring that they are aware of the pressures they will face as teenagers both in their virtual and real worlds.
• Ensure that they are aware it’s alright to say ‘No’.
• Ensuring that they are aware of risky behaviours and know how to keep themselves and each other safe.

Educating young people by

• Ensuring sound legislative knowledge around issues such as age of consent etc.
• Ensuring they know of the immediate and longer term consequences of becoming involved in any type of offending not only as victims, but also as perpetrators.
• Ensuring they are aware of the problems associated with excessive on-line usage.

Encouraging young people by

• Ensuring they think about their on-line reputation.
• Promoting real world relationships as opposed to virtual ones.

The talk has been chosen to deliberately coincide with Safer Internet Day 2020. Safer Internet Day 2020 will be celebrated globally with the theme: Together for a better internet.