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Keeping kids safe

Every parent knows that keeping their children safe online is a daunting task.

Young people are growing up in a world where they access the internet with ever-increasing ease and, along with the benefits come a number of dangers that can pose a risk to any child at any time.

NSPCC and O2 research has found that four out of five children feel that social media companies aren’t doing enough to protect them from pornography, self-harm, bullying, and hatred on their sites.

The findings are revealed in the latest Net Aware guide, the UK’s only parents’ guide to 39 of the most popular social media sites, apps, and games used by young people, produced by the NSPCC in partnership with O2.

Preventing children from using the internet or mobile phones won’t keep them safe in the long run, so it’s important for parents to have conversations to help their child understand how to stay safe and what to do if they feel scared or uncomfortable.

We would urge parents to keep their knowledge up to date. Having the right information at their fingertips will help them feel in control.

For information call the NSPCC’s online safety helpline on 0808 8005002, or visit www.net-aware.org.uk or www.internetmatters.org.

O2 Gurus run workshops giving free online safety advice, helping set up parental controls and teaching how to make a phone safe for a child. Go to: www.o2.co.uk/help/nspcc/child-protection.

INGRID ANSON, Service Manager – NSPCC, Albert Street, Swindon

Why I can’t hide away

I MUST admit, that although I stated on these pages that I would turn TV channels over, at the slightest hint of any more boring gibberish from all the main political parties I now have another almost insurmountable problem.

This is regarding my love of reading the newspapers and buying the Adver and Daily Mail every day. I also like to keep up with current events on other newspapers on the internet but I now find that already there is no escape from this incessant political drivel.

I have two options. I disappear for six weeks to join the tax evader remoaner Richard Branson on his Caribbean island while my meagre pension is taxed at source.

Or I decide to sneak into my back garden shed for six weeks, with numerous crates of alcohol as well as dog food for my little Westie.

The problem, who would take my dog his walks? Who would help my large brood in time of need - “Hi dad, how are you and mum?”

My reply, “how much cash do you need?” It cuts down the phone bill. Not to mention other little scenarios: “Hi mum and dad, we are coming round with a box of chocolates for mum on Mother’s Day.”

My reply: “Cash or cheque? Save the journey.”

I hope you all take this in the light hearted manner that is intended.

BILL WILLIAMS, Merlin Way, Covingham, Swindon