Play it safe on Internet

Play it safe on Internet

17 April 2013

A GROUND-BREAKING internet safety programme for teenagers and older people has been rolled out by Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership.

During March, Year 10 pupils from Ballynahinch High School and older people from the Grove Day Centre, Ballynahinch, participated in the two-week intergenerational programme at Ballynahinch Baptist Church.

The programme aimed to give an insight into the benefits and risks of using the internet, especially around the world of social media.

PCSP chair, Councillor Carmel O’Boyle, said: “Social networking sites on the internet are a great tool for young people and elderly to connect with others, share photos, videos and personal messages but they need to be informed of the risks associated with these sites such as cyber bullying, hackers, viruses, identity thieves and spammers.

“Following the success of the programme an advertising campaign, highlighting useful websites packed with internet safety advice, can be viewed throughout the district on bus shelters and prominent places across the district.”

Alayne McGivern, training consultant from BT, designed and delivered the programme to give participants an appreciation and understanding of the safety aspects of the internet and social media.

During April, programme participants will engage in further workshops on the Cool FM bus, were they will be given the opportunity to a radio ad on the topic and will spend a day at the Cool FM Studio.

For further information on internet safety contact the Policing and Community Safety Partnership at Down District Council on (028) 4461 0800.