# data[].attributes.body
Guidance to support children’s relationships, identity and personal development.

# data[].attributes.body
Help for children and families facing or have faced additional responsibilities or challenging home situations.

# data[].attributes.body
Practical advice and support to help with parenting, routines and family life.

# data[].attributes.body
Advice and tools to help keep children safe when using the internet and devices.

# data[].attributes.body
Information and services for children with additional needs, including SEND support and guidance.

# data[].attributes.body
Support and advice to help children with feelings, behaviour and mental health.

# data[].attributes.body
Where to go for immediate help if you are worried about a child’s safety or wellbeing.

# data[].attributes.body
Advice for parents and carers on how to talk to your child about relationships, sex and consent.

# data[].attributes.body
Our Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCo), Anica De Sa Pereira, oversees the work of a team of specialists and classroom assistants who support and advise Class Teachers.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities

# data[].attributes.body
We are lucky enough to have Mrs Wilkinson as our trained ELSA at Westvale.

Emotional Literacy Support Assistants can support with:

Social Skills

Bereavement

Anxiety

Low Mood

Healthy Relationships

And much more

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
An educational psychology led intervention for promoting the emotional wellbeing of children and young people. Find out more.

# data[].attributes.body
Our Family Wellbeing service, in partnership with the YMCA East Surrey, empowers parents with the tools and knowledge to support wellbeing. This recording and downloadable worksheet from Gemma Gay (YMCA’s Family Wellbeing Service) encourages parents and carers to pause and reflect on their own wellbeing. Using the Healthy Mind Platter by Dr Daniel Siegel, she highlights gaps where our mental health could be improved and easy-to-access strategies to do this.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 | The Eikon Charity

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The resources on this page have been created by our Eikon Schools Programmes Team to support schools in taking practical, meaningful action this Mental Health Awareness Week and beyond.

# data[].attributes.body
Mindworks Surrey is the children and young people’s Emotional Wellbeing, Mental Health and Learning Disability services in Surrey.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Emotional wellbeing and mental health services for children and young people, including the CAMHS service, now known as Intensive Interventions.

# data[].attributes.body
Get help and advice online

Whether you want to understand more about your young person's mental health, find the right help for them or hear from other parents who've been there, their guides can help.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
It's okay to reach out for help. Your situation is unique and no parent has all the answers. We all need a little extra support sometimes, and we hear from parents and carers just like you all the time.

So, if you're worried about the mental health and wellbeing of a child or young person up to the age of 25, you can chat to us by phone, email or webchat.

Our Parents Helpline is also accessible for those who are hard of hearing or speak English as an additional language. If English is not your first or preferred language, we can arrange for a language translator to support you on a call with one of our helpline advisers. Or if you would like to use our webchat or email service, we offer a digital translation service.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Parents Mental Health Support | Advice for Your Child

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Practical tips, advice and where you can get help if your child or teenager is struggling with their mood, feelings, or their behaviour seems different.

# data[].attributes.body
Growing Health Together is an initiative supporting the NHS to collaborate with people and partners to improve the conditions for health and wellbeing in neighbourhoods across East Surrey.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
About the Programme - Growing Health Together

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Collaborative partnerships are developing in Horley, Caterham, Merstham, Redhill, Oxted and surrounding areas.

# data[].attributes.body
SEND Advice Surrey is Surrey's statutory Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities Information, Advice and Support (SENDIAS) service for children and young people aged 0 to 25 years with additional needs and/or disability, their parents/carers and professionals.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
We are currently replying to contacts within 10 working days. Sorry for any convenience.
SEND Advice Surrey staff update can be found on the hot topics page below.
Our hot topics page has information on the most talked about topics for SEND Advice Surrey at the moment

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
SEND Advice Surrey is Surrey's Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities information, advice and support (SENDIAS) service.

# data[].attributes.body
A programme for parents and carers.

A  support programme for parents and carers of  children and young people, aged 5-18, who are autistic.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The Cygnet Parenting programme really helped me deal with Q's behaviour and gave me coping strategies. I am now able to take Q out in public without being in fear of a major tantrum and having people judge me in how I deal with his behaviour

- (Parent attending Cygnet in Kent)

I know at the beginning of the course I wasn't very positive and thought its wasn't going to make a difference but it has, massively. I can now see a light at the end of the tunnel and feel so much more confident in dealing with 'my son'. You have helped our family so much!

- (Parent attending Cygnet in Hampshire)

Cygnet didn't change our autistic child, but it changed the way we understand and support our autistic child

- (Parents attending Cygnet in Grimsby)

As a trainer and parent of a child with Autism myself, I have really enjoyed seeing the progression the parents have made from the start of the course to the final session. Lots of emotions from parents including acceptance, relief, understanding and empathy.

- (Parent facilitator in Lancaster)

# data[].attributes.body
Learning Space is a children’s emotional well-being and mental health charity that provides individual and group support for 5 – 18 years olds in Surrey.

Our unique offer is a strengths-based, therapeutic mix of solution focused support together with a variety of creative activities customised to the individual needs and interests of the child, young person or adult.

# data[].attributes.body
We provide compassionate guidance and support for families navigating their loved ones’ LGBT+ journeys.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A national voluntary organisation and charity dedicated to supporting parents and their lesbian, gay, bisexual and Trans sons and daughters

# data[].attributes.body
Where can I find help if I need it?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
What is a young carer?

If you're under 18 years old and look after someone who has a long-term illness, disability, mental health condition, or drug or alcohol problem, then you're a young carer.

You might be doing things like making meals or washing clothes. Or maybe you help your mum get washed and dressed in the morning. You may be looking after other children or perhaps your brother or sister is the person in your family needing extra care. Young carers very often provide emotional support as well.

Sometimes doing all this might make you feel lonely, but it's important to remember you're not alone - there are an estimated 14,000 young carers in Surrey.

There is also a lot of support out there for you to help you manage all the things you have going on.

Where can I find help if I need it?

Surrey Young Carers supports young carers in lots of different ways. They can give you someone to talk to and run loads of events to help you have some fun away from caring. They also have lots of opportunities to speak to other young carers who might have similar experiences to you

It's important to let your GP know that you are looking after someone. They can help with all sorts of things like offering you appointments to suit your timetable and free flu jabs.

Speak to someone you trust at school - Once they understand your situation they will be better able to support you with things like homework or course work or time out of school. Lots of schools also have young carer's clubs that you might like to join.

Get a carer's assessment. This is a way to tell the council about the care you give to make sure you're getting the right help for you and your family. For further information contact Children's Services.

Young Adult Carers

Carers aged 18 to 24 are known as "Young Adult Carers" if this is you, you can also get support from Action for Carers Surrey. Action for Carers Surrey will help you plan some of your next steps in life and support you as you think about college, or university and moving into adulthood.

You can be offered a carers assessment which is available to all carers over the age of 18.

For support for over 18s please contact the Action for Carers Surrey enquiry desk:

Young carers strategy

Here you can find out more about the Surrey Joint Strategy for Young Carers. This is the plan for how Surrey will work to support you as a young carer. It has been put together by people from Surrey County Council and the NHS. There has also been a lot of input from young carers to make sure you're getting your voices heard.

Files available to download

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If you're a young carer or a young adult carer in Surrey, find out about all the support that's out there for you to help you with your caring role.

# data[].attributes.body
Being a young carer: your rights

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Being a young carer: your rights - Social care and support guide

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If you are 18 or under and you care for someone you are entitled to help and support.

# data[].attributes.body
Action for Carers Surrey provides support, advice and information for unpaid carers across Surrey. Whether you’re an adult carer, a young carer, or a professional working with carers, you’ll find the help and support you need here. Simply click below to find the information which is right for you.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Action for Carers | Supporting carers of all ages across Surrey

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Action for Carers Surrey offers advice and local support for unpaid carers of all ages, including young carers, adult carers and professionals.

# data[].attributes.body
Driven by love, we take action so children don’t miss out on a safe and happy childhood. We have thousands of people on the ground, giving children and young people the protection and practical help they urgently need. And we campaign for lasting change.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Young carers: who are they and why do they need support?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Looking after family members is hard when you’re a child. One in three young carers say their caring role makes them feel stressed. We make sure no one has to cope alone.

# data[].attributes.body
Wellbeing tips for parents to help you support a healthy, happy childhood - with advice on sleep, bullying, mindfulness, as well as ways to look after you and your child's mental health.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Wellbeing - BBC Parents' Toolkit - BBC Bitesize

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Wellbeing tips for parents to help you support a healthy, happy childhood - with advice on food, sleep, mindfulness, as well as ways to look after you and your child's mental health.

# data[].attributes.body
The NAS Surrey Branch is for families that include someone with autism.

Volunteers are there to help with local parent / carer support groups around Surrey, talks, workshops and family activities. They publish a roundup of local meetings. talks and workshops, plus details of local events, activities, news and information relevant to families in Surrey every two months in their Newsletter.

# data[].attributes.body
Provides independent guidance to parent carers of children and young people with additional needs aged 0-25 in Surrey, shining a light on the challenges that SEND families regularly face.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Family Voice Surrey's vision is clear: cultivate a diverse and inclusive society where parent carers feel valued and listened to and all children and young adults with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are supported to reach their full potential.

We provide independent guidance to parent carers of children and young people with additional needs aged 0-25 in Surrey, shining a light on the challenges that SEND families regularly face.

Together we're stronger; together, we can make a difference.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Family Voice Surrey's vision is clear: cultivate a diverse and inclusive society where parent carers feel valued and listened to and all children and young adults with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are supported to reach their full potential.

# data[].attributes.body
A good place to start if you have any worries about your child’s needs and aren’t sure what support is available.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Local Offer parents and carers - Surrey County Council

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Information and resources for parents and carers of children and young people with special educational needs and disability (SEND).

# data[].attributes.body
Call 999 if a child is in immediate danger or at risk of serious harm.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Contact the police by calling 999 to report emergencies or by calling 101 for non-emergencies

# data[].attributes.headline
Child exploitation and Online Protection (CEOP)

# data[].attributes.subject
Child exploitation and Online Protection (CEOP)

# data[].attributes.body
Make a report to one of CEOP's Child Protection Advisors

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Are you being bullied?

If you are being bullied, or you are not ready to make a report to CEOP, you can talk to Childline anonymously online or on the phone - No worry is too big or too small.

Visit Childline

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Are you being bullied? If you are being bullied, or you are not ready to make a report to CEOP, you can talk to Childline anonymously online or on the phone - No worry is too big or too small. Visit Childline

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Help and support for people experiencing domestic abuse in Surrey

# data[].attributes.body
Advice for parents and carers to help support children and young people in their safe and responsible use of the internet.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to content

What we do

Help & advice

Helpful information and guidance on a range of key online safety topics.

The Childnet Film Competition 2024 is open!

Do you know any young people aged 7-18 who are passionate about film? Can they tell a good story, create animation or inspire positive change? Would they like to make a short film about online safety?
Then enter the competition now!

Download brand new interactive resource ReelLife!

An interactive resource to help young people aged 9-14 identify the potential risks of social media.
Check out the resource...

Try out the Childnet Digital Leaders Programme today!

A youth leadership training programme empowering young people to educate their peers about online safety.
Sign up for a guest login

Blog

The latest advice and guidance on key online safety issues, as well as information on the latest apps and games.

Free resources to help you teach about online safety.

We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking "Accept All", you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Childnet - Online safety for young people

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Helping make the internet a great and safe place for children and young people.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
97% of 12-year-olds in Britain have a smartphone.

When children started getting them, there was no research about their impact. Now there is, and it's overwhelming.

Smartphones expose children to harmful content, raise the likelihood of developing a mental illness and are highly addictive.

But parents have been put in an impossible position.

Either we give our children access to something that opens the door to porn, bullying, grooming and the anxiety machine that is social media, or we risk alienating them from their peers.

Regulation hasn't caught up with the technology, so it's parents and children that lose out.

We started Smartphone Free Childhood to give power back to parents, and to kickstart the change society needs.

We've learned over time to restrict alcohol and smoking to certain age groups. Smartphones have been with us for barely 15 years, and now we know their effect, we need to act.

Our mission We're determined to turn the groundswell of public support we've already recieved into real change for our children and future generations. We'll do it by:

🗣️ Growing the national conversation about the harms of smartphones for children.

👩‍🏫 Empowering parents and schools to create change at a local level.

👊 Putting pressure on government and tech companies to help us protect our children.

Just as we marvel at the fact cigarette companies used to market their products as healthy, people will look back on this era and ask why children weren't protected from smartphones.

Let's get together and change the norm.

Sign up to be part of the movement and for the latest updates from our campaign.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Smartphone Free Childhood is a grassroots movement on a mission to keep childhood smartphone free. We want to connect parents in their local communities so that together they can make a pact not to give their children smartphones until at least 14, or social media before the age of 16.

# data[].attributes.body
From understanding apps to setting parent controls. These pages provide resources and information to help you understand and talk to your children about online safety.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Campaigning for change

We fight to change laws to make society safer for children. Our Wild West Web campaign has pushed for new regulations through the Online Safety Bill to make sure websites, apps and games are safe for children to use. But the draft Bill doesn't go far enough to protect children.
Help us end the Wild West Web

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Understanding online safety is tricky for all ages - we have advice and guides to help you learn about staying safe online as a family.

# data[].attributes.body
We all like being one step ahead. And the same applies when we’re spending time online. So we’ve got tips to help feel more in control when you’re scrolling.

# data[].attributes.body
'We asked Will Gardener, CEO of Childnet, and Suzanne Taylor, Assistant Director Impact - Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation at Barnardo’s, to answer some of your questions about keeping children safe online.'

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Published on 4 April 2022

We asked Will Gardener, CEO of Childnet, and Suzanne Taylor, Assistant Director Impact - Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation at Barnardo's, to answer some of your questions about keeping children safe online.

How do I keep my child safe online? What age should I speak to my child about online safety? How do I keep up with an ever-changing online landscape?

While the internet has created fantastic new opportunities for children to learn, play and connect, we know it has created some big risks as well. A 2021 Office for National Statistics (ONS) report found that nearly a third of children had accepted a friend request from someone they did not know and around 1 in 10 children (11%) aged 13 to 15 years reported receiving a sexual message, while 1 in 100 reported sending a sexual message.

Read Will and Suzanne's answers to frequently asked questions about keeping children safe online.

Watch parents reflect on the issues they encounter balancing trying to keep children safe online and letting them make the most of what the internet can offer them.

What types of harms do I need to be aware of as a parent?

a

Suzanne:
There are different types of inappropriate, concerning and illegal content online. From bullying, violent videos and 'sexting' to blackmail. We know that those that want to harm our children can use chat rooms, gaming and social media to befriend and groom children.

Children tell us that they can be quickly exposed to content they didn't search out. Therefore, it's vital not to blame children and keep calm if you are faced with this as a parent. The responsibility always lies with those that want to harm.

The risk of online harm differs by age and what they are doing online. So, finding age-appropriate ways to educate our children is essential.

The Child Exploitation and Online Protection Command(CEOP) have some great animations to show younger children. Plus, they're split into age brackets with key messages you can revisit as a parent.

What age should you start to talk to your child about online safety?

As soon as your child shows an interest in engaging with technology, it's time to begin sharing simple online safety strategies with them.

Will Gardener

CEO of Childnet

Will:
For younger children, it's best to use technology together and use that time to discuss what to do if something unusual or scary pops up. As they get older, they will need more independence, but keep those conversations about online safety going. Remind them to tell someone if they need help, are worried or something makes them feel uncomfortable.

Suzanne:
Children tell us conversations about the internet and online safety should be frequent and not a one-off.

Regular dialogue allows children to lead the conversation and leaves space for them to ask questions and share concerns. For older children, it allows us to explore what they are doing online. These conversations will change as they grow and mature but started early, they get easier.

You can find more information about having a conversation with your children on our o nline safety hub.

Which parental control tools would you recommend? What features should they include?

Will:
Parental controls are designed to help protect children when they go online. Childnet would recommend putting parental controls on the home Wi-Fi and all devices that your children might use. Key features to look out for are content restrictions (to block things like pornography), in-app purchases and time limits.

There are companies who will charge money to provide parental controls, but most Wi-Fi services, devices and apps have parental controls that you can use for free. Internet Matters has step-by-step guides on how to put many of these in place.

Whilst parental controls will reduce the chances of your child seeing something they're not ready for, inappropriate content can still get through. Supervise younger children and keep talking about their online lives. It is also a good idea to test the parental controls yourself and adapt them as your children get older.

Whilst parental controls will reduce the chances of your child seeing something they're not ready for, inappropriate content can still get through. Supervise younger children and keep talking about their online lives.

Will Gardener

CEO of Childnet

Suzanne:
We all know the saying "do as I say, not as I do". Alongside parental controls, one of the best ways we can protect children is to lead by example. This could mean being aware of your own use of technology, asking children's permission before sharing a picture of them online or talking about your own digital life. Barnardo's have partnered with Vodaphone who have some good suggestions on leading by example and being a digital role model for your child.

It's also important to remember that, as adults, we don't always understand what teenagers or children like to wear, do and watch on TV. This is the same with what children watch online. But you don't have to like or understand what they watch, just be aware of whether it's harmful.

Being a good listener is also vital. Having an open relationship makes it easier for them to tell us if they feel uncomfortable online.

As a parent, how can I stay up to date with platforms, such as TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, and their safety and settings. What are the biggest dangers to children online right now?

Will:
The dangers that pose the most risk to your child will depend a lot on how they use the internet, what is already being done to keep them safe, and what they already know about using the internet safely and responsibly.

A simple and effective way to hear about the latest online trends or what your child is getting up to is to talk with them about their life online. By maintaining an open dialogue and encouraging them to talk to you about their internet use, parents can help children access the amazing resources and opportunities the internet has to offer whilst keeping them safe.

a

Read Childnet's advice on talking to your child about life online.

Suzanne:
The risks to each child are different depending on what they are doing online and the ever-changing tactics of those who want to harm. Therefore, it is most effective to equip your child with the skills to identify harmful or uncomfortable situations, seek support and offer them regular opportunities through conversation to talk with you.

My advice would be:

equip yourself with some basic knowledge by using internet sites

ask your child to show you what new apps are

speak with other parents or older teens to see what they are doing online

ask your child's school how they are educating children and staying up to date.

Vodaphone also have shared information on apps every parent should know about.

Do you have advice on keeping children safe when they're using an Xbox or PlayStation?

Will:
The best way to keep your child safe when they are playing games or using games consoles is through discussion. Talk with your child about the games they enjoy playing and where possible, sit down and play these together.

Speak to your child about what else they do on their consoles, aside from play games. For example, what else do they access? Who do they communicate with?

Next, establish and support realistic boundaries with your child, whilst encouraging safe choices. For example, make sure young people know not to share their personal information or anyone else's when playing online games.

a

You may also want to think about the amount of time your child spends on these devices or take control of in-app purchases. Childnet's family agreement has some great ideas for areas to focus on with your family. The UK Safer Internet Centre also has further information specifically relating to the use of games consoles.

Internet Matters and Thinkuknow are excellent tools to explore parental controls available through games consoles.
Learn more about why young people like online gaming.

How can I report someone who has contacted my child with inappropriate content?

Will:
Online grooming is where someone befriends a child online and builds up their trust with the intention of exploiting them and causing them harm. For more advice about grooming and the forms it can take, you can visit Childnet's advice page on online grooming.

If you are worried your child is being groomed online or sexually exploited, you should report your concerns to CEOP. CEOP is the Child Exploitation Online Protection command, part of the National Crime Agency.

Visit our online safety hub

We all want the best for our children, and that includes keeping them safe online. Find out how with our tips and advice.

Keeping children safe online: how to start the conversation

Struggling to talk about online safety with your child? Here are some expert tips on how to start the conversation.

Are you following these 5 tips to keep your child safe online?

Here are some basic steps you can take to support your child to stay safe online.

Online pornography and age verification: what parents need to know

This guide from the BBFC outlines what you need to know for when the time comes to speak to your child about online pornography and how to broach those tricky conversations

*According to Government statistics, in 2016 pornography was accessed 1.4 million times by UK children every month. That number is likely to be higher now due to the increase in time spent online during and post pandemic.

Imagery by Popla Media

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Keeping children safe online - Parent's questions answered

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We answer some common questions on things like parental controls, keeping things age appropriate and the types of harms to be aware of.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Content warning: This section includes graphic sexual descriptions.

A nude image must include one of the following to be removed:

nude or semi-nude sexual posing

someone nude or semi-nude touching themselves in a sexual way

any sexual activity involving a child

someone hurting someone else sexually

sexual activity that includes animals.

Where possible, it is better if you can upload the original image or video, or a copy of it, rather than a photograph of it on another screen. This helps IWF find the image more accurately.

If you want to report something that isn't a nude image or video to see if it can be taken down, you can see more information from Childline about deleting things shared online here. You can make a report to CEOP, the part of the police who are there to support children and young people online. You can always speak to a Childline counsellor.

Confirming your age with ID gives us more legal powers to remove images from as many places as possible. If you don't have ID or feel comfortable using it, we can still take down images, but from fewer places.

You can use the following ID to confirm your identity using Yoti:

passport or biometric residence permit

driving licence and provisional licence

Young Scot Card (Yoti app only)

CitizenCard (Yoti app only).

If you don't have any of these, you can get a young person's ID card. You'll be able to get this for £5 with the promo code NSPCC5. Make sure you choose 'Yoti CitizenCard' on the first page.

Whatever ID you use, please make sure that it is valid and in-date.

IWF will read all reports within one working day, from Monday to Friday. The time it takes to get your image removed from the internet can be different depending on where the image is hosted.

If the image is on a UK-based website it can often be removed within 2-3 hours. Unfortunately, in some countries it can take longer - sometimes days or weeks. But IWF analysts will always try to make sure it happens as soon as possible.

We'll do our best to let you know once your image has been removed by sending a message to your  Childline locker.

We recommend you check your locker every few days after you make a report. This is so you can see if your image has been removed, and so Childline can let you know if IWF need more information to be able to remove it. Remember, IWF can't contact you directly.

If you need support to help you cope while you're waiting, you can also speak to a Childline counsellor any time.

When you use Report Remove, your image or video is shared with the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF). They'll work to get your image removed from the internet. See 'Who are the IWF?' to learn about how that happens.

Most of the time, nobody will know that you've made a report and your report won't be shared with anyone else.

If the police already have the image or video you report, then they might investigate what's happened. Only the police can decide if they'll need to tell someone else.

The police might already have your image or video if:

someone has reported it on another website and that website passed it to the police

they're investigating someone who had or has the image or video already (if someone is found to have your image and is breaking the law - regardless of how, it may be included as evidence in a criminal case against that person

someone else reported the image to them directly.

Remember that the police are there to protect you, not to get you into trouble. If the image has been reported somewhere else and you're worried, you can always  speak to a Childline counsellor.

If you have parental controls on your phone your parent or carer might see when you want to download a new app, so they might get a notification if you try to download Yoti and want to know why. To avoid this, use the second option to prove your age (called 'ID verification').

The IWF can remove images that are public or available to anyone on the internet. However, they won't be able to remove images or videos on encrypted networks like WhatsApp, or which are saved on a person's phone or computer.

If you're over 13 and you've made a report without using ID, then there may be some sites the IWF can't take images down from.

If you don't use ID the IWF can help by removing your image or video from most sites. If you do use ID, the IWF can remove from all sites

The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), a UK charity, are there to help remove illegal nude images of under 18s posted online.

Once the IWF has confirmed your nude image is against the law and can be removed from the internet they give it a digital fingerprint called a 'hash'. The hash can be used to find your image online even if it has been cropped or slightly changed.

Sharing just the hash with certain trusted companies and organisations, means that technology can be used to find online matches of the image - this is key to trying to stop it appearing in different places on the internet. Even though the hashes and images are shared with UK police, this is so that if they came across the image some other way, they'd know that you also reported it yourself. Report Remove was developed with the full support of the police and no one involved wants to get you into trouble for sharing the image so it can be removed.

Different companies use the hash in different ways. For example, if an illegal image match is found to have been shared by an online account holder, a company may decide to close that person's account as posting illegal images will be against the company's terms and conditions. If your image(s) are found on or are linked to your online user account(s) it may be possible for the company to associate your profile with the images.

The companies that take the hashes trust the Report Remove process, however if they have significant concerns that the person in the image may not be the person who was age verified, they may get in touch with the IWF to raise their concerns.

There are 3 organisations that help you report your image using Report Remove. These are Childline, the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) and also Yoti if you are 13 or older and choose to prove your age using ID. All of them have a responsibility to keep all of your personal information safe.

1. We'll ask you to choose your age range (under 13, 13-15, 16-17, 18 and over). If you're under 13, you'll go straight to step 3. If you're aged 13 or older, us at Childline will ask you if you have access to ID to prove your age. If you do, you'll be asked to visit Yoti. The only information we will share with Yoti is that you are wanting to prove your age to use Report Remove.

2. Once you prove your age using Yoti, you will come back to Report Remove on Childline. The only information Yoti will share with Childline is confirmation that you're younger or older than 18.

3. We'll then ask you to create or sign in to a Childline account. Then you'll go to the IWF website to share the content you want removed. Childline will only share the information below with IWF:

that you're younger than 18 (either confirmed by Yoti, or that you told us you are younger than 18),

the age range you selected at the start,

a unique number that is created when you use Report Remove.

4. After your report has been passed to the IWF, they will tell Childline if they were able to work to take the images or video down from the internet, and why. This is so Childline can let you know what happened. IWF may also tell Childline some information about what you reported, to help them know how best to support you and keep you safe. IWF will never share an image or video that you report with Childline.

Information you give to Childline
Any information you give Childline will always be treated carefully and in line with our  Privacy Policy. This means that any information you give us as part of Report Remove will only be used to help the IWF review your report and to keep you safe. This will include the age range that you select and a unique number that's created when you go onto the IWF website. We will not share any of your information with Yoti.
Information you give to IWF
The only information you will give to the IWF are the images, videos or URLs you report. There is space to add information such as where the image or video is on a webpage.

They will process this in line with their privacy policy.

Nude images and videos that IWF decide are illegal may be kept by the IWF for up to 2 years. This is because there is an agreement with the Police and CPS (Crime Prosecution Service), called a 'Memorandum of Understanding' (MOU). Illegal images are given a hash (a string of numbers that are like a digital fingerprint). The hash is shared with organisations such as technology companies who host online content, so that they can look for the image and take it down. The actual image is not shared with these companies. The image and the hash are shared with the police who store it on their Child Abuse Image Database. Any images or videos that they decide are not illegal may be kept for a maximum of 6 months for quality checking and any follow up questions. They will then be deleted. Sometimes, even if it's decided that the content isn't illegal, IWF can share the content URL with some industry members to see if they can take the content down.

If you report a URL (link to a webpage), and choose not to prove your age using ID, IWF will still check to see if the content is something they can take action on. If so IWF may share the URL with South West Grid for Learning (SWGfL), who are a charity who help people who have had intimate images of them shared online. SWGfL will never view the content on a URL that is shared with them. SWGfL send a notice to internet companies that host the webpage you reported, to tell them to take it down. This is because IWF can only send a notice to companies to take a specific webpage down when it is confirmed it is of a child. SWGfL can also send notice to take down content, but they do not need to prove it is of a child. This helps get your images or videos from even more places.

Childline will never see what pictures, videos or URLs you share with the IWF. The only information the IWF shares with Childline apart from your case number is whether or not they could take down your images or videos, and why, so we can let you know, as well as information about the image or video that you reported that will help Childline to support you and keep you safe.

Information you give to Yoti
You can choose to use Yoti to confirm your age if you're over 13. This may involve taking a selfie, so Yoti know it is you who are proving your age, and uploading a picture of some ID. Any personal data you send Yoti - like your photo, date of birth or address - is scrambled with a high level of encryption so that even if it was stolen, no one could use it to identify you. The only information Yoti shares with Childline is confirmation that you're under or over 18.

You can see Yoti's privacy policy here, and more information about their age portal here, which is what is used in Report Remove to prove your age.

If you're using the Yoti app, Yoti may use the selfie, month and year of birth you add to the Yoti app to improve its age estimation technology. You can opt out from this in the More> My Data> Biometric consent menu of the app.

There are lots of ways to get help with your report:

if you're having problems with Yoti, you can contact them directly in the app.

if you need any support with making your report send a message to Childline with the title 'Report Remove'.

Childline counsellors are always here for you and want to help. And you can  talk to them  about anything you're going through.
I have a technical issue, what should I do?

Try using your default browser and close private browsing if you're using the Yoti app.

See if you can log in to your locker and send an email to Childline explaining your problem and the team will be able to help.

Make sure the ID you're using is valid and in-date (not expired).

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Use Report Remove to remove a nude image shared online

# data[].attributes.body
This website is for adults to report concerns about a child or request support for a family.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
If you think that a child is in immediate danger you should call 999.

If your query or request for support is for an adult (18 years and over), please contact Adult Social Care.

Children's Single Point of Access (C-SPA)

If you are a child or young person being abused or neglected, or an adult who is concerned about a child or young person's safety and wellbeing, you can contact the Children's Services 'Single Point of Access' between 9am to 5pm on Monday to Friday.

For people with hearing or speech impairments:

During evenings, weekends and bank holidays, the Emergency Duty Team is available:

For people with hearing or speech impairments:

Text line: 07800 000388

Text relay (a speech-to-text translation service): 18001 01483 517898

If you have already been in touch with children's social care services and would like to contact your allocated social worker or family support worker directly, please find your local area number below.

Before making a request for support to Children's Services

Please consider if the child or young person's needs can be met by services from professionals who are already working with the family, or whether you could use the Surrey Family Information Service website and Surrey Family Information Directory to find support.

If you are requesting support from Children's Services, please gain consent from the parents or carers beforehand, except where doing so may increase the risk of harm to the child or young person.

Please download and complete the Request for Support Form. Please see our levels of need document for reference as to what level of support applies.

Professionals may use the consultation option given on 0300 470 9100 if they are unsure about the course of action.

C-SPA Child Protection Consultation Line

The Child Protection Consultation Line provides advice and support to professionals to ensure we are able to direct you to the most appropriate service that can meet the child and family's needs.

The Consultation Line is open to all professionals who work with families who live in Surrey.

Availability: 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday

Phone: 0300 470 9100 option 3

Concerns about individuals who work or volunteer with children

The Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) Service manages allegations against individuals in contact with children and young people in an employed or voluntary role. If you have a relevant concern please contact the LADO on 0300 123 1650* or lado@surreycc.gov.uk

Availability: Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm

If you have already been in touch with Children's Services and would like to contact your allocated social worker or family support worker directly, please use your local area number. If you are unsure which borough or district you live in, you can find out using your postcode in this search facility.

North-East Surrey: 0300 123 1610

The north east area covers the following three boroughs:

Elmbridge (Esher, Walton on Thames and Weybridge)

Epsom and Ewell (Epsom, Ewell and part of both Stoneleigh and Worcester Park)

Spelthorne (Ashford, Laleham, Shepperton, Staines-upon-Thames, Stanwell and Sunbury-on-Thames)

South-East Surrey: 0300 123 1620

The south east area covers the following three district and boroughs:

North-West Surrey: 0300 123 1630

The north west area covers the following three district and boroughs:

South-West Surrey: 0300 123 1640

The south west area covers the following two boroughs:

* Surrey County Council call charges:
Calls to 03 numbers cost no more than a national rate call to an 01 or 02 number and must count towards any inclusive minutes in a call plan as 01 and 02 calls are. These rules apply to calls from any type of line including mobile, landline or payphone.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Report a concern about a child or young person

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Suspect a child is at risk of abuse, neglect or harm? Contact the Children's Single Point of Access (C-SPA). In an emergency, call Surrey Police on 999.

# data[].attributes.headline
National parenting service- Family Lives

# data[].attributes.subject
National parenting service- Family Lives

# data[].attributes.body
Advice and support on a wide range of parenting matters

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Parenting and Family Support - Family Lives (Parentline Plus) | Family Lives

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Parenting and family support from Family Lives (formerly Parentline Plus) through our website, helpline 0808 800 2222, email service at askus@familylives.org.uk, live chat and local services.

# data[].attributes.body
Family life can be full of moments that make you smile, as well as times that test your patience or leave you searching for answers. That’s why we’ve created our Family Space, a place for parents and carers like you to get advice and guidance from our specialists.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
We can help you make sure your child gets the best start in life

As well as offering services which your child may be able to access in your local area, we also provide guidance and support online for parents, carers and families.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find out about the support, guidance and services we offer to parents, carers and families to ensure that every child grows up safe and loved.

# data[].attributes.headline
Courses for parents on supporting Children and Young People

# data[].attributes.subject
Courses for parents on supporting Children and Young People

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find out about the range of adult learning courses on offer across Surrey.

# data[].attributes.body
Anyone under 19 can contact Childline for free, confidential support about anything that’s worrying them—such as feelings, friendships, bullying, family problems or staying safe online.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
On Thursday 30 November from 2:30am - 7:30am, you won't be able to contact Childline whilst we do some important maintenance to our systems. This means that 1-2-1 chats, calling and messages to Childline will be unavailable. You'll still be able to use the Childline website for advice and information.

If you're in danger or it's an emergency, you should always call 999

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Get help and advice about a wide range of issues, call us on 0800 1111, talk to a counsellor online, send Childline an email or post on the message boards.

# data[].attributes.body
Effective Early Help means providing support as soon as a problem emerges, at any point in a child's life, from the foundation years through to the teenage years. Early Help can also prevent further problems arising
cspa@surreycc.gov.uk
0300 470 9100

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
In Surrey, our approach to ensuring children, young people and families receive the right early support, at the right time by the right service is changing.

We know that providing early help is more effective in promoting family resilience than reacting later. Effective Early Help means providing support as soon as a problem emerges, at any point in a child's life, from the foundation years through to the teenage years. Early Help can also prevent further problems arising; for example, if it is provided as part of a support plan where a child has returned home to their family from care, or in families where there are emerging parental mental health issues or drug and alcohol issues. (Working Together 2018).

Effective Early Help relies upon local organisations and agencies working together to:

identify children and families who would benefit from early help

undertake an assessment of the need for early help

provide targeted early help services to address the assessed needs of a child and their family which focuses on activity to improve the outcomes for the child

The majority of families will be able to access universal services and are encouraged to make use of the Family Information Service to identify services in the community that may be able to support them and the needs of their children.

Any practitioner, child, young person or family member can directly access the Family Information Directory. This provides a detailed list of a variety of services that are available in the community by typing in a keyword search.

Helping Families Early Webinar

The Helping Families Early Webinar was recorded in November 2020. The webinar introduces Surrey's revised Early Help Assessment, guidance and training for practitioners. You can download a full transcript of the Helping Families Early webinar or watch the webinar below.

View on YouTube

Files available to download

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
In Surrey, our approach to ensuring children, young people and families receive the right early support, at the right time by the right service is changing. We know that providing early help is more effective in promoting family resilience than reacting later.

# data[].attributes.body
Horley Food Bank offer free emergency food and basic toiletries to those in crisis and will help them as part of a package of support being offered by local agencies such as Citizens Advice, probation services, family centres, health visitors, doctors’ surgeries, social services, housing trusts, the police and local schools. Whatever your situation, they offer a warm welcome, sign posting and a listening ear.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Horley Food Bank - Surrey County Council

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Information about Horley Food Bank from our family information service directory, including location and contact details.

# data[].attributes.body
There's no such thing as a perfect parent. One day all's calm, the next it's chaos. However it's going, you can access all our parental advice webpages below.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Explore expert support and advice for every parenting challenge. Whether in calm or chaos, we guide parents and carers through the ups and downs.

# data[].attributes.body
We support families by offering home visits, practical help and a listening ear—building confidence, strengthening wellbeing and helping parents access support within their community.

# data[].attributes.body
The NSPCC helpline is for adults to get advice or report concerns if they are worried about a child’s safety or wellbeing.

You can contact our Helpline by calling 0808 800 5000 between 10am–4pm Monday to Friday or emailing help@NSPCC.org.uk any time for free. You have the option to remain anonymous.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
You can contact our Helpline by calling 0808 800 5000 or emailing help@NSPCC.org.uk

# data[].attributes.body
A guide for parents, carers, family members and guardians on how to talk to young people about their mental health and wellbeing.

# data[].attributes.body
Calm Down Toolkit For Kids

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Affiliate and Referral links are used below to promote products I love and recommend. I receive a commission on any purchases made through these links. Please see my disclosure policy for more details.

All children can benefit from calm down strategies, whether they have sensory processing challenges or not. Today I have teamed up with Fun and Function to share this great calm down toolkit for kids. You can use it in your home, classroom, or clinic/school-based practice. It's a great way to encourage independence in self-regulation for kids of all ages, with a little training. I have a free download for you today with some printables for setting up.
This post is sponsored by Fun and Function. I received monetary compensation as well as free products in order to write this post. The giveaway below is also sponsored by Fun and Function.
MY LATEST VIDEOS

Teaching Self-Regulation Techniques

In order for calm down toolkits or any sensory strategy to work successfully, you need to teach children how to use them, BEFORE they are melting down.

There are many different emotions, but we all come hardwired with 6 main emotions. These are:

Teaching all children about emotions and how to react to emotions can benefit the entire classroom, home, or clinic/school-based setting. Children need to be able to recognize these emotions, how they feel, and the how different responses can affect them or those around them. Calm down strategies will not work as effectively unless a child understands WHAT they are feeling, WHY they are feeling the way they do, and then HOW to respond.

As an adult, I have to challenge myself to practice my own calm-down strategies in order to show my kids how to react appropriately. Of course, we all make mistakes and don't always respond the appropriate way. But by practicing these responses before we need them, it helps our brain to access these responses when we need them.

If you have a child or work with a child with sensory processing challenges, they often have emotional reactions to sensory input. These reactions can affect how they function in the home or classroom, which affects their ability to problem solve and learn. Preparing them with calm down strategies can be extremely helpful to them to function in the different environments.

Setting Up a Calm Down Toolkit

When you are setting up a calm down toolkit, it's important to provide things that will hit all 8 senses. Lots of gross motor movements to provide proprioception, vestibular, and also tactile input are the first 3 senses to focus on. Typically, these 3 senses are the basis of sensory processing challenges, so it is important to address these 3 senses first. Then you can pull in visual, auditory, taste, and smell to help with calming.

I was really excited when Fun and Function asked me to use some of their products to create this calm down toolkit. I wanted to choose items that would hit multiple sensory systems that you could use with multiple kids. Fun and Function also has a lot of other amazing products you can look through to add to your toolkits. And of course, you can always use your own DIY options.
Remeber to scroll down to the bottom of this post where I have a free download to get you started with your calm down toolkit and there is also a giveaway from Fun and Function!
Your toolkit can be put into a basket or plastic bin with a lid that child has access to in your home or classroom. It's important that it is accessible without the child needing your input to encourage self-regulation and independence with calming strategies.

I included the following items in my calm down toolkit:

And I wanted to suggest some other ideas you could include, these can be found on the Fun and Function as well.

Subscribe and Get Your Free Calm Down Toolkit Printable Packet

This printable packet will get you started with setting up your own calm down toolkit for your regulation station or sensory calm down station.

Subscribe to Growing Hands-On Kids for weekly newsletter activity tips and ideas, just like this one. You'll also be the first to know about new printables, resources, and product recommendations.
As a free gift, I'll send you the My Calm Down Station printable download!
You'll also be receiving my 9-day sensory processing email series. You can unsubscribe at any time.

By downloading this free printable, you are agreeing with my site's terms of use and privacy policy as detailed here.

If you have already subscribed, don't worry, you won't be subscribing again. By entering your email address below it lets my email provider know which printable to send you. You will not receive duplicate emails from me!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Calm Down Toolkit for Kids - Home, Classroom, or Clinic!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Affiliate and Referral links are used below to promote products I love and recommend. I receive a commission on any purchases made through these links. Please see my disclosure policy for more details. All children can benefit from calm down strategies, whether they have sensory processing challenges or not.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Welfare support for families with children - Surrey County Council

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find help for your family including tax-free childcare, free school meals and school uniforms as the cost-of-living increases.

# data[].attributes.body
Support for adults or children who are or have been victims of domestic abuse.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Participants will be offered a 1-2-1 session with a programme facilitator before the sessions begin. This allows them to complete a group work assessment and start to build a relationship.
Session one - introductions
Getting to know each other, setting ground rules and exploring what will be covered.
Session two - why am I here?
Exploring what's happened and how to cope with difficult feelings.
Session three - self-esteem, what is it?
Exploring self-esteem, what it means, and how experience of domestic abuse can affect it.
Session four - who's in my family?
Exploring relationships with family members, and how to increase levels of safety.
Session five - talking positive
Revisiting self-esteem and introduction positive affirmations.
Session six - ways to handle difficult feelings without getting into trouble
Exploring healthy ways to cope with anger, and simple relaxation techniques.
Session seven - health relationships and trust
Examining what a health relationship looks like.
Session eight - what now?
Identifying tools that will be helping in the future.
Follow-up session
Programme facilitators will make a final call to participants to assess any outstanding needs, and complete final outcome measures.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Participants will be offered a 1-2-1 session with a programme facilitator before the sessions begin. This allows them to complete a group work assessment and start to build a relationship. Session one - introductions Getting to know each other, setting ground rules and exploring what will be covered.