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Something happened online
If something online has worried, frightened or upset your child, stay calm. Listen to what happened and reassure your child that telling you was the right thing to do.
Is Your Child in Immediate Danger?
Call 999.
What Should I Do First?
1. Stay Calm
Reassure your child that they have done the right thing by telling you.
2. Listen
Ask your child to explain what happened. Try not to blame or judge them.
3. Report & Block
Use the reporting and blocking tools provided by the app, game or social media service.
4. Get Help
Choose the concern below to find the most appropriate source of help.
What Has Happened?
Choose the option that most closely matches your concern.
Bullying, Threats or Hurtful Messages
Use the app, game or social media platform's reporting and blocking tools first. If another pupil is involved or the issue is affecting school, contact your child's school.
Someone Online Is Worrying Your Child
If you are worried about online sexual abuse, grooming or sexual communication involving a child, report the concern to CEOP.
An Intimate Image or Video of Your Child Has Been Shared
If your child is under 18, Childline and the Internet Watch Foundation provide Report Remove to help young people report sexual images or videos of themselves online.
Harmful or Inappropriate Content
First use the reporting tools provided by the website, app, game or social media service.
Report Harmful Content provides further advice about reporting harmful online content.
You Have Found Suspected Child Sexual Abuse Content
If you come across suspected child sexual abuse images or videos online, report them to the Internet Watch Foundation.
Not Sure Where to Report It?
The UK Government's Kids Online Safety service explains where different types of online concerns can be reported.
Need to Speak to Someone?
NSPCC
Parents and carers can contact the NSPCC for safeguarding advice and support.
0808 800 5000
Childline
Children and young people can contact Childline if something online is worrying them.
0800 1111
When Should I Contact School?
Contact your child's school if the online concern:
- Involves another pupil.
- Is affecting your child's wellbeing at school.
- Is affecting attendance or learning.
- Continues between school and home.
- Raises a safeguarding concern.
The school can help you identify the appropriate member of staff to speak to.
More Trusted Support
UK Safer Internet Centre
Guidance for parents and carers about reporting and online safety.
Internet Matters
Practical guidance for families about online issues and reporting.
Your Child Is Not in Trouble
Listen, stay calm and work through what happened together. Knowing that they can come to you for help is an important part of keeping your child safer online.