Are you a professional supporting a vulnerable child online?

Guide for professionals working with vulnerable children

Based on the ‘Changing conversations’ report, below are key points to understand, ensuring the vulnerable children you work with are supported in becoming digitally resilient.

See report summary

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Advice for professionals working with vulnerable children

1. Digital technologies have special significance for vulnerable children

It can help them access tailored advice and support, to connect with those with similar experiences and develop confidence and independence.

2. Vulnerable children are more at risk than their peers

Research suggests that vulnerable children are more likely to see harmful content, to experience pressure to share intimate images and to have their personal information shared.

3. Restricting vulnerable children's devices is rarely the best approach

We all want to ensure that vulnerable children are safe and well but unless we help them to navigate connected technologies in a supported way, they will have to learn later on their own without your help and guidance.

4. It's like teaching a child to ride a bike

We know the child might fall, scrape their knees and need help. We support them to recover and build up to bigger challenges – like when the stabilisers come off. What we don’t do is take away their bike!

5. Use our resources to change the conversations

Our Inclusive Digital Safety Hub has been designed specifically with vulnerable children in mind. All of our resources are freely available, evidence-informed and have been developed directly with children, professionals and parents.

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