The internet and social media are integral to many young people’s lives.  Whilst they can have a positive impact, there are also many risks associated, particularly with social media usage.  Many online platforms have age restrictions as they are not suitable for use by younger people.
The following social media platforms have an age restriction of 13 years and upwards:

• TikTok
• Instagram
• Facebook
• Snapchat
• Twitter
• YouTube
• Houseparty

WhatsApp has an age restriction of 16. Many young people use WhatsApp as the primary source to communicate with others, including in group chats. The App has a function that allows up to 256 people in one chat and allows users to join as many group chats as they wish. This can result in hundreds of messages being exchanged, often in the evenings or at night. This can have a negative impact on peer relationships and the wellbeing of users.

We recommend that parents/carers regularly talk to their children about their social media usage, check their devices regularly and do not allow them to have access to their devices at night. 

The NSPCC have a really useful weblink to help you keep your children safe online.  As well as helpful guidelines, they have factsheets about each of the main social media platforms and tips for supporting your child in using them.  

Other useful resources, including ways to report online abuse or inappropriate content, are found below:

Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP) 

Child Exploitation and Online Protection provides up-to-date information and a way to report online behaviour.  They also have a range of home safety activities that you can do with your child to promote safe internet use and online presence.
www.ceop.police.uk 

Childnet International- The UK's safer internet centre

The latest advice and guidance on key online safety issues, as well as information on the latest apps and games.
www.childnet-int.org  

Internet Watch Foundation 

IWF works to eliminate child sexual abuse imagery online, preventing the ongoing victimisation of those abused in childhood and making the internet safer for all. There is an anonymous reporting tool and updates on internet safety.
www.iwf.org.uk 

Safe4Me

Child-Centered Policing. An initiative from colleagues in West Mercia who have produced a range of materials aimed to promote self-help and signpost support for families and young people around cyberbullying.
https://www.safe4me.co.uk

Thinkuknow 

An excellent resource, produced by CEOP education and regularly updated and available at a range of age-appropriate levels to support all young people, parents and professionals.
 www.thinkuknow.co.uk