May 2016

Welcome…

… to the May 2016 Safeguarding Newsletter

News:

Internet Watch Foundation ( it’s annual report (published on 21st April), the Internet Watch Foundation gives details of the number of images of child sexual abuse which have been taken down as an impact of them being able to actively search. Following on from this, they plan to expand their team of 12 expert analysts to 17, offer the Image Hash List to the wider internet industry and challenge non-Member online companies to take action.

The full report can be found here:

‘Sexting’ has become part of the flirting ritual for many young people. The problem with accepting this as the new ‘normal’ is that sexting carries risks. Images which are supposed to remain private are often shared with a much wider audience, and can be used to bully and control. Sexting can also be influenced by pornography, introducing inappropriate expectations into young people’s relationships.

Training:

Compass:don’t forget to check that your mandatory safeguarding training is correctly recorded on Compass. As you will be aware, we all need to undertake this training at least every 5 years as part of our ongoing learning commitment. This can be done face-to-face, or (with your GSL’s agreement) via the on-line training on the Scout Association website. The link is: which links you to the online page at

I’m happy to run running locally-based sessions, for which I need a minimum of 10 people to make it worth-while (not new leaders). If Districts want to arrange local training please let me know.

Resources:

Facebook groups and pages: Many groups and districts already have facebook groups and pages which they use to communicate with parents and others. There is a handbook about using facebook as a communication aid which can be found at

Whilst the information is aimed at schools, it will be useful for Scout groups wishing to explore this as a means of communication.

The Family Online SafetyInstitute( published some Quick Tips for Parents – please feel free to pass this info on.

  • Check the age and content rating information.
  • For mobile games and apps with an ESRBrating, check for additional notices describing interactive elements, such as user interaction, digital purchases, if unrestricted Internet access is provided and/or the sharing of location or personal information.
  • Useparental controls,which are available for all video game consoles and leading app stores likeGoogle Play,to help manage which apps and games your children download and play. And keep your password or PIN a secret!
  • Teach your children healthy online habits that mirror the ones you expect from them in the real world.
  • Discuss with your children how in-game purchases will be handled.
  • Use the ESRB’s Family Discussion Guideto help structure a conversation with your children about establishing some ground rules about the video and mobile games they play.
  • Monitor and/or play games with your children. There’s absolutely no substitute for being an involved parent.

Date for your diary:

Safer Internet Day 2017 will beon 7 February

That’s it for this month

Sheila Gibbon, Safeguarding Awareness Coordinator, Durham Scout County

Tel: 0191 2577571

Email:

Website: