Learning in Lockdown:

Llinos Owain is a School Community Police Officer with North Wales Police. Here, she gives a unique perspective on safe use of the internet whilst home schooling:

Sadly, School Officers across North Wales have seen a significant increase in incidents of internet misuse involving pupils being reported since the schools reopened in September 2020. Children are unware of the risks on certain new aps, and parents seem unsure where to seek advice and support.

‘As a parent of children aged 7 and 14, I know first-hand how hard it is to keep up to date with the latest trends, the latest games or the latest apps that our youngsters use.

‘This pandemic has put us all under enormous pressure to keep our children safe online, whilst at the same time encouraging our youngsters to use the internet more than ever before!

‘Even as a Police Officer of 12 years, I became too aware on a personal level how issues online can affect children during lockdown, and this has certainly hit home about the confusing landscape that parents face daily. Over the last few weeks, I have found fantastic and useful websites geared towards parents like myself; full of current and up-to date information.’

The attached guide has been created as a provision  to schools and parents as a ‘go-to’ interactive leaflet that can be used as an aid to assist anyone who needs it.

Llinos added: ‘We all want our children to have a  positive and healthy relationship with the internet, and this guide provides a wealth of information to anyone who wishes to find out a little bit more.’