The purpose of this policy statement is to:

• Ensure the safety and wellbeing of children is paramount when adults, young people, or children are using the internet, social media, or mobile devices.
• Provide staff and volunteers with the overarching principles that guide our approach to online safety.
• Ensure that, as an organisation, we operate in line with our values and within the law in how we use online platforms and devices.

This policy statement applies to all staff, volunteers, children, and young people involved in BDSFA activities.

We Believe That:

• Children and young people should never experience abuse of any kind.
• Children should be able to use the internet for education and personal development, but safeguards must be in place to ensure their safety at all times.

We Recognise That:

• The online world provides many opportunities, but also presents risks and challenges.
• We have a duty to ensure that all children and adults involved in our organisation are protected from potential harm online.
• We have a responsibility to help keep children and young people safe online.
• All children have the right to equal protection from all types of harm or abuse.
• Working in partnership with children, parents, carers, and other agencies is essential in promoting young people’s welfare and supporting responsible online behaviour.

We Will Seek to Keep Children and Young People Safe By:

• Providing direction to staff and volunteers on appropriate online behaviour through our Code of Conduct.
• Supporting and encouraging children and adults to use the internet, social media, and mobile phones in a safe and respectful way.
• Supporting and encouraging parents and carers to help keep their children safe online.
• Responding appropriately to any incidents of inappropriate online behaviour, whether by an adult or a child/young person.
• Regularly reviewing and updating the security of our information systems.
• Ensuring personal information about adults and children is held securely and shared only when appropriate.
• Using images of children and adults only after written consent has been obtained, and only for the specified purpose.
• Providing supervision, support, and training for staff and volunteers about online safety.
• Risk-assessing any social media platforms and new technologies before they are used within the organisation.

We are committed to reviewing this policy and our good practice annually.