Online safety message for Larne High pupils

The ‘Chat Share Think’ project is designed to empower young people and help them to understand the risks associated with growing up and forming relationships in a digital age.

The scheme combines the unique insight of police officers working in the Public Protection Unit (PPU), with funding, school links and the support of Larne Policing and Community Safety Partnership.

The result is a workshop for pupils and parents which deals with issues such as online grooming, general internet safety and guidance on the law on the sharing of indecent images.

Project leader Sergeant Siobhan Ennis, who works as an officer within the PPU, said one of the functions of this specialist unit is the management of registered sex offenders, and increasingly, dealing with the fall out associated with the misuse of technology involving young people, with some becoming either victims or offenders after having made, possessed or shared indecent images.

She added: “Chat Share Think is about empowering young people to make the most out of the internet and social media.

“It can make for uncomfortable listening and discussions for parents and pupils, but ultimately the project aims to protect our young people and ground their virtual world in real world situations. We are delighted to have brought the project to Larne High School with the support of the senior staff and look forward to visiting other schools in the area soon.”