School Health Service

Staying Safe Online

Do you know how to stay safe when you are using a computer or mobile?

Sometimes people post messages online that are nasty.

Being online and using the internet is just like being in the real world - you can chat to people, play games and share pictures. But sometimes things happen which can make you upset. People may say things to you which upset you, or you may see something that you don’t like.

If this happens, you must remember that it’s not your fault.

If you feel upset about anything you have seen on the computer or if someone has said something which makes you feel bad– you need to tell your mum, dad or whoever looks after you at home.

You can talk to your teachers too if anything is upsetting you and they will help you.

You can also call ‘Childline’, which is a place where people who are nice can help you. They won’t tell anyone that you have called and it’s free. You can phone them on: 0800 1111.

The most important thing to remember is to tell a grown up you like and trust if you are unhappy or scared about anything. You can also save the message so you can show it to whoever you tell.

This information has been provided by the School Health Service and Thinkuknow, a guide to internet safety at http://www.thinkuknow.co.uk