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Life lessons are the company that we work with for the delivery of PHSE/RSE lessons at The Grange. Please have a loo around the site.

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Who does the guidance apply to? Curriculum focus A legal requirement Optional but recommended Relationships Sex and Health Education (RSHE) All schools providing secondary education years 7-11, including:– All through […]

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Letter sent to parents October 2024 PSHE and RSE update.

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Letter sent to parents October 2024 PSHE and RSE update.

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The Grange Academy Curriculum Maps for PSHE and RSHE 2025-6

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The Grange Academy Curriculum Maps for PSHE and RSHE 2025-6

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see the topics and titles of the sessions that we have each week on PSHE and RSE at The Grange

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Wake up Wednesday:  Managing exam stress. 

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Wake up Wednesday:  Managing exam stress. 

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Letter sent to parents April 2024 PSHE update

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Letter sent to parents April 2024 PSHE update

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A lot of work goes into helping young people make a smooth transition from primary to secondary education. We have created these videos and accompanying resources to help with the online aspects of this move.

The videos cover issues like wanting a first phone, group chats, and handling friend and follower requests.

Simply scroll to the bottom of this page to watch the videos and and look through the accompanying resources for educators, parents and carers.

This resource focuses on helping young people aged 10-13 when moving from primary to secondary education, in the UK this usually happens at the age of 11. This is also a time when many young people will receive their first phone and start to use apps, including social media, to keep in touch with old friends and make new ones, even when they do not meet the age requirements. Most social media and messaging apps have a minimum user age of 13, and we recommend to parents, carers and young people that they wait until they reach this age.

Whilst we do encourage young people to wait, we are aware that there will be learners who are already active on these platforms, and this is why they are discussed in this resource. For those learners who are not using social media yet, the activities will be helpful if they choose to do so later.

Teachers and educators, if you believe that some of your learners are using social media before they are 13, you should follow the procedures of your school or setting in this situation.

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Toolkit with videos and lesson plans for adults helping young people aged 10-13 with the online aspects of moving to secondary school.

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Let's Discuss: Fundamental British Values

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Great Parenting Tips and Strategies for Coping with ADHD

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Know more tips and ideas to significantly increase your success rate when it comes to caring for a child with ADHD. Learn more.

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Child sexual abuse, help, advice, information, prevention, helpline

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Advice, info on how to protect children from sexual abuse, what to do if sexual abuse has or is taking place, where to get help. Child seuxal abuse Helpline

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A meditation app that acts as a personal guide to health and happiness

An online cognitive behaviour therapy program for depression and anxiety

​

A free app designed to help teens and young adults cope with anxiety.

Helps build resilience - the ability to stay strong, motivated and optimistic even in the face of difficult obstacles

Turns the latest innovations in the science of happiness into activities and games that help you lead a more fulfilling life.

A meditation program developed by psychologists and educators to help bring mindfulness into your life

Chill Panda helps children better understand their stress and shows them ways to feel better using breathing techniques, yoga, exercise and calming games.

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A meditation app that acts as a personal guide to health and happiness An online cognitive behaviour therapy program for depression and anxiety ​ A free app designed to help teens and young adults cope with anxiety.

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Sexual abuse on video, live streaming and images

Video functions were once novelty, now they are integrated into almost every social media platform. Live streaming, or 'going live', has become more and more popular with children and young people. Whilst it can be a fun way for them to socialise and express themselves, children and young people can be sexually abused on these platforms. This is known as 'non-contact' or online sexual abuse and can be just as harmful as 'contact' sexual abuse.

The impact of online sexual abuse

Sexual abuse that takes place completely or partly online:

● can make a child or young person feel powerless or that there is no escape from the abuse as technology is part of their everyday life and used in safe spaces, such as their bedroom, home or school.

● can involve offenders threatening to share photos or videos to keep control over a child. These threats can make it difficult for a child to feel the abuse has come to an end as they fear that images will be out there forever

● can make children feel they are to blame for sending images, even if their actions were directed by the offender

● can cause psychological problems in the same way as contact abuse, such as nightmares, flashbacks, phobias, depression, anxiety or self-harm

Concerned about a child?
If you have concerns that a child is being sexually abused online, you should report your concerns to the police. If you have concerns that a child is at immediate risk of harm, you should call 999.

How does this happen?

In cases of online sexual abuse, children may never meet the offender face to face, with all abuse taking place over the internet - via images, webcam or live streaming. Or, the abuse may begin online but lead to a face to face meeting or contact (in person) abuse. Offenders trick or force a young person to share a sexual image, strip or perform sexual acts on webcam or live streaming platforms. They may do this by:

Relationship building - grooming the child, building a relationship with them in which the child feels love or loyalty to the offender.

'Catfishing' - creating a fake identity to target a victim for abuse. This could include using fake profile phots and pretending to be the same age as the child, building a friendship or relationship.

Getting personal - using information the young person has shared, such as their sexuality, personal problems or family difficulties, against the young person, to get them to go on live video or share a sexual image.

Making threats - once they have an image or video they may use it to threaten them, telling the child that if they don't do what they say, they will share the image or video online.

Children can then feel trapped and forced to do whatever the offender wants. This can start a cycle of abuse, with offenders making increasing demands for the children to appear on video and perform sexual acts.

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Video functions were once novelty, now they are integrated into almost every social media platform. Live streaming, or 'going live', has become more and more popular with children and young people.

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The Boys biggest conversation with Dr Singh

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The Boys biggest conversation with Dr Singh

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TIPS BY TOPIC

BODIES & BODY IMAGE

​

Making babies, puberty before it hits & teenage development

Only 1% of parents use the word "vulva" with their children, 44% use a euphemism like "flower" or "fairy" - and 20% don't speak to their daughters about that part of their bodies at all!

​

atasha Devon's Channel 4 show Naked Beach teaches us that being around body-confident people makes a positive impact. So try to model body comfortableness . Don't talk about dieting, say "ugly" or emphasise looks & appearance. And look at the

A helpful tone on the topic of body image falls somewhere between realistic, empathic and encouraging:

"I remember having a real problem with my tummy. It's tough but a lot of people struggle with how they look then find new ways of looking at it. You will too"

"Being active in other areas
- such as clubs, sports or hobbies - where your young person can excel is a good way to ensure that their body image is not so central to their identity"

​

How To Help Your Child With Their Body Image

- Parenting NI

"First moon" or "red tent" parties - yes or no? Test the waters with this comedy video (totally age appropriate for a 10-year-old).

Use it as a way in
to discuss if and how you and your daughter would
like to celebrate
her first period.

See also the great Period Fairy ...

"I used to be terrified to ever show parts of my body that
I didn't think were perfect. Learning that perfection doesn't exist and that beauty lies in those flaws and those individualities and nuances
is just the most liberating
thing ever..."

- actor Aimee Lou Wood, who plays Aimee in Sex Education

Don't expect a barrage of puberty questions, even if school is abuzz with who's got what so far. Ask your child if talk about bodies is troubling them.

Your key messages: "Puberty happens to people at different times - even up to age 24!" and "We all end up looking unique - isn't that great though?"

More help with #Bodies&BodyImage

Remember: every child is different. Adjust these suggestions for the age and stage of your child. Children with special educational needs and disabilities, looked-after children and children who have experienced abuse may all need different support.

If you're in doubt about your child's emotional, physical or psychological development, please seek the advice of a professional

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TIPS BY TOPIC BODIES & BODY IMAGE ​ Making babies, puberty before it hits & teenage development Only 1% of parents use the word "vulva" with their children, 44% use a euphemism like "flower" or "fairy" - and 20% don't speak to their daughters about that part of their bodies at all!

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Just Ignore it: Anti-Racism film created by young people in Hull

Youth Aspire Connect has worked with young people in Hull to create an animation based on their real life experiences of racism and racial prejudice. These are true stories that have affected everyone who took part.

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Give information about crime 100% anonymously | Fearless | Crimestoppers

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Fearless has launched a new campaign to keep teenagers across Scotland safe this autumn. Focusing on Halloween and Bonfire Night, the charity's pro-social behaviour messaging provides teens with information on how to stay safe and look out for their local community.

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Find out who the winners are in the inaugural Crimestoppers Volunteer Awards! As a national charity, we have groups of volunteers all around the UK, and we wanted to show them how much they are appreciated.

See the winners

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Independent UK charity taking crime information anonymously | Crimestoppers

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Find out who the winners are in the inaugural Crimestoppers Volunteer Awards! As a national charity, we have groups of volunteers all around the UK, and we wanted to show them how much they are appreciated. See the winners

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True Vision is is a police-funded web site designed to provide you with information about Hate Crime.

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BeGambleAware®: Gambling Help & Gambling Addiction | BeGambleAware

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"No one ever talks about losses. So, it's really hard to even know if someone's got a problem or not, because if you haven't won for a while - you just won't say anything...Hearing other people's stories that are similar to mine kind of makes you think 'Wait a minute'...

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Rape Crisis England and Wales - specialist services for women and girls who have been raped and/or experienced any other form of sexual violence at any time in their lives

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Support for everyone affected by a parents drinking

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Support for everyone affected by a parents drinking

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We have joined forces with award-winning voluntary organisation, The Sleep Charity, as part of an ambitious five-year plan to become the leading, independent, authority on sleep. Please visit The Sleep Charity website for advice and support on sleep issues and to access the most up-to-date relevant information.

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We have joined forces with award-winning voluntary organisation, The Sleep Charity, as part of an ambitious five-year plan to become the leading, independent, authority on sleep. Please visit The Sleep Charity website for advice and support on sleep issues and to access the most up-to-date relevant information.

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Safeguarding tracking app for parents and carers

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Safeguarding tracking app for parents and carers

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The best way to deal with grooming is to prevent it happening by making sure your child is well-informed, uses privacy settings on social networks and knows that they can talk to you if they feel unsafe or worried. Teach your children how to be safe online:

Keep personal information private

Private details which could identify them in the real world - name, age, gender, phone number, home address, school name, photographs - should only ever be shared with people they know.

Know who their friends are

Talk to them about being cautious about what they share with people online. Remind them that even though people they've met online might feel like friends they may not be who they say they are.

Be safe in real life

Never arrange to meet someone they only know online without a parent present.

Tell someone

If something makes your child worried or uncomfortable online their best course of action is always to talk to an adult they trust.

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Online grooming: what you should know | Internet Matters

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The best way to deal with grooming is to prevent it happening by making sure your child is well-informed, uses privacy settings on social networks and knows that they can talk to you if they feel unsafe or worried.

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See our list of wellbeing apps for kids that are designed to help them learn how to manage their mental health.

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LGBTQ+ inclusive books for children and young people

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Welcome to the Stonewall Book List for schools, colleges, parents, and carers. We’ve hand-selected a wide range of LGBTQ-inclusive books for children and young people to enjoy. Since we first released our book lists, there has been enormous growth in LGBTQ-inclusive children’s and young adult…

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Today there are a number of products that are designed to help you during your period. They are made to absorb the blood that is lost - potentially saving your underwear!

The name of these products are Sanitary Products.
1. Sanitary Pads
This is probably the first option that you will use when you first start. They are a sticky pad that sticks to your underwear to catch the blood as it leaves the vagina.

They come in a variety of sizes and shapes for different flow (the amount you bleed) rates.

You can also buy something called Liners which can be used on very light flow days. Pads must be disposed of in a sanitary way and can be place in normal bins at home or sanitary bins in public places.
2. Tampons
These are small tubes of cotton wool tubes that are inserted into the vagina and absorb the blood before it leaves the body.

There are two types of tampons:

With an applicator

Without an applicator

Each brand will supply instructions on how to insert the tampon. When a tampon is in the right position you shouldn't be able to feel it, so if it hurts, it's best to remove it and try to insert a new one.

Always change tampons regularly, every 3 to 6 hours. And never leave a tampon in for more than 8 hours.

Try to alternate tampons with using sanitary pads and use a tampon that matches the blood flow you have, like not using a super absorbency tampon when you have a light period day.

A tampon can never get stuck or lost inside you and the muscles of your vagina hold it in place. It will expand inside you as it fills with blood so it will look bigger when you take it out. Tampons must be disposed of in a sanitary way and can be place in normal bins at home or sanitary bins in public places.
3. Menstrual Cups
These are small rubber or silicone cups which can be put inside the vagina to catch the blood. The muscles of the vagina keep them in place so they don't fall out. They're then emptied, washed and used again.
4. Period Underwear and Charcoal Pads
In recent years, period underwear has been developed and are designed to be worn (catching the blood like a sanitary pad) and then washed rather that disposed of.

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Today there are a number of products that are designed to help you during your period. They are made to absorb the blood that is lost - potentially saving your underwear! The name of these products are Sanitary Products. 1. Sanitary Pads This is probably the first option that you will use when you first start.

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Children's Mental Health Week

Children's Mental Health Week 2021 took place from 1-7 February 2021. This year's theme was Express Yourself.

Watch our Royal Patron HRH The Duchess of Cambridge's video message to mark the start of the week.

Take part in our Virtual Assembly with BAFTA and Oak National Academy - featuring Jodie Whittaker, Matthew Lewis and more...

All of our free resources can be adapted for use in school, for home-schooling, online lessons or independent learning.

And don't forget to add yourself to the Children's Mental Health Week map to let us know how you celebrated the week!

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Children's Mental Health Week 2021 took place from 1-7 February 2021. This year's theme was Express Yourself. Watch our Royal Patron HRH The Duchess of Cambridge's video message to mark the start of the week. Take part in our Virtual Assembly with BAFTA and Oak National Academy - featuring Jodie Whittaker, Matthew Lewis and more...

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Periods. When will they start? Will they hurt? Will there be lots of blood? Most people have lots of questions about periods and we hope to answer some of them.

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Help regarding Domestic Abuse and Domestic Violence

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I need help - information and support on domestic abuse

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Women's Aid Live Chat does your relationship not feel right? It could be domestic abuse. Send an email to a Women's Aid domestic abuse support worker. Help for all aspects of domestic abuse, suc...

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If you are in immediate danger, call 999 and ask for the police. If you can't speak and are calling on a mobile press 55 to have your call transferred to the police. Find out how to call the police when you can't speak.

For free, confidential advice, 24 hours a day contact a domestic abuse helpline.

Household isolation instructions do not apply if you need to leave your home to escape domestic abuse.

Translated guidance

If English is not your first language, information has been translated into several languages as well as an easy read version.

Women's Aid also have guidance documents on domestic abuse and coronavirus available in a number of languages for victims, family and friends, and community members of those affected.

If you are deaf, you can access a British Sign Language video that explains how to get help if you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse.

Recognise domestic abuse

Does your partner, ex-partner or someone you live with:

cut you off from family and friends and intentionally isolate you?

bully, threaten, or control you?

take control of your finances?

monitor or limit your use of technology?

physically and/or sexually abuse you?

Domestic abuse is not always physical violence. It can also include:

coercive control and 'gaslighting'

economic abuse

online abuse

threats and intimidation

emotional abuse

sexual abuse

Anyone can be a victim of domestic abuse, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, religion, socio-economic status, sexuality or background.

If you believe that you are a victim of domestic abuse, there are signs that you can look out for including:

being withdrawn, or being isolated from your family and friends

having bruises, burns or bite marks on you

having your finances controlled, or not being given enough to buy food, medication or pay bills

not being allowed to leave your house, or stopped from going to college or work

having your internet or social media use monitored, or someone else reading your texts, emails or letters

being repeatedly belittled, put down or told you are worthless

being pressured into sex or sexual contact

being told that abuse is your fault, or that you're overreacting

See more signs to look for.

Get help and support

All forms of domestic abuse are not acceptable in any situation.

If you're experiencing domestic abuse and feel frightened of, or controlled by, a partner, an ex-partner or family member, it's important to remember that it's not your fault and there is no shame in seeking help.

It may seem like a difficult step to take, but there is support available and #YouAreNot Alone.

Free, confidential support and advice is available to victims and their concerned family members or friends, 24 hours a day.

Bright Sky app

Bright Sky is a mobile app and website for anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or who is worried about someone else.

The app can be downloaded for free from the app stores. Only download the app if it is safe for you to do so and if you are sure that your phone isn't being monitored.

Women's Aid local support services directory

Women's Aid have a directory of domestic abuse support services across the UK.

If you are experiencing domestic abuse or are worried about friends or family, you can access the Women's Aid live chat service 7 days a week, 10am to 6pm.
helpline@womensaid.org.uk
Victim Support

Victim Support run these services for victims and survivors of any abuse or crime, regardless of when it occurred or if the crime was reported to the police:

Ask for ANI codeword

If you are experiencing domestic abuse and need immediate help, ask for ANI (Action Needed Immediately) in participating pharmacies and Jobcentres (Jobs and Benefits Offices in Northern Ireland).

When you ask for ANI, you will be offered a private space, provided with a phone and asked if you need support from the police or other domestic abuse support services.

To find your nearest participating provider, search using the postcode checker on the Ask for Ani page on the Enough website.

Ask for ANI logo used in participating pharmacies and Jobcentres (Jobs and Benefits Offices in Northern Ireland).

Safe Spaces

Ask for ANI is delivered in partnership with Safe Spaces, a safe and confidential room where victims can take some time to reflect, access information on specialist support services or call friends or family.

Safe Spaces are also available in Boots, Morrisons, Superdrug and Well pharmacies, TSB banks and independent pharmacies across the UK.

Find your nearest Safe Space.

Check whether someone has an abusive past

If you are concerned that a new, former or existing partner has an abusive past you can ask the police to check under the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (also known as 'Clare's Law'). This is your 'right to ask'. If records show that you may be at risk of domestic abuse, the police will consider disclosing the information. A disclosure can be made if it is legal, proportionate and necessary to do so.

If you are concerned about a friend or family member, you can apply for a disclosure on behalf of someone you know.

You can make a request to the police for information about a person's previous violent offending in person at the police station or elsewhere, by telephone, by email, online or as part of a police investigation. Support agencies and services can also help you ask the police about this.

Get a court order to protect you or your child

If you're a victim of domestic abuse you can apply for a court order or injunction to protect yourself or your child from:

your current or previous partner

a family member

someone you currently or previously lived with

This is called a non-molestation or occupation order.

You can apply online, by email or by post.

Get a court order if you've been the victim of domestic abuse.

Support someone you know

If you are worried that a friend, neighbour or loved one is a victim of domestic abuse, you can call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline for free and confidential advice, 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247.

Or you can contact the other support services listed on this page.

Seeking help for someone you know can be challenging but #YouAreNotalone. Domestic abuse advisers will offer confidential, non-judgemental information and advice on the options available to you helping you to keep safe and make informed choices.

If you believe there is an immediate risk of harm to someone, or it is an emergency, you should always call 999.

If someone confides in you, there is more information on how to support a friend who is being abused.

If you are an employer

Let your employees know that if they are facing domestic abuse you want to help them to get help. Stay in regular contact with employees you know, or fear, may be facing abuse and if you lose contact with them, take swift action to visit them. If you believe there is an immediate risk of harm to someone, or it is an emergency, always call 999.

Encourage employees to look out for others who may be facing domestic abuse and signpost them to support. Your staff may also be worried about their own abusive behaviour at this time. There is no excuse for domestic abuse, no matter what stresses you are under and support is available.

Hestia's Respond to Abuse Advice Line is a free resource for employers. Employers can call 020 3879 3695 Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, or email adviceline.eb@hestia.org for support, guidance or information about domestic abuse and how to support employees and colleagues experiencing domestic abuse.

The  Employers' Initiative on Domestic Abuse website provides resources to support employers including an  employers' toolkit.

If you are a professional working in the domestic abuse sector

SafeLives  provides guidance and support to professionals and those working in the domestic abuse sector, as well as additional advice for those at risk.

Find additional information and support

If you want to access help specifically to cater to your background and needs or want support and help for specific types of abuse there are several organisations that can help - see Domestic abuse: specialist sources of support.

You can also find additional information and support here on topics including:

help for children and young people

welfare benefits and housing advice

help if you don't have settled status in the UK

support for specific types of abuse

Get help if you think you might be an abuser

If you are concerned about your behaviour or the behaviour of someone you know, there is support available.

The Respect Phoneline  is an anonymous and confidential helpline for men and women who are abusing their partners and families. It is open Monday to Friday 9am to 8pm. The helpline also takes calls from partners or ex-partners, friends and relatives who are concerned about perpetrators.

A webchat service is available Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10am to 11am and from 3pm to 4pm.

Telephone: 0808 802 4040

How to call the police when you can't speak

If you are in danger and unable to talk on the phone, call 999 and listen to the questions from the operator and, if you can, respond by coughing or tapping on the handset.

Call 999 from a mobile

If prompted, press 55 to Make Yourself Heard (PDF, 348KB) and this will transfer your call to the police. Pressing 55 only works on mobiles and does not allow police to track your location.

Call 999 from a landline

If the operator can only hear background noise and cannot decide whether an emergency service is needed, you will be connected to a police call handler.

If you replace the handset, the landline may remain connected for 45 seconds in case you pick up again.

When 999 calls are made from landlines, information about your location should be automatically available to the call handlers to help provide a response.

If you are deaf or can't use a phone

You can register with the emergencySMS. Text REGISTER to 999. You will get a text which tells you what to do next. Do this when it is safe so you can text when you are in danger.

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Find out how to get help if you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse.

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Discrimination and The Equality Act Explained for Kids | Pop'n'Olly | Olly Pike

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Black History Month 2023 - Celebrating our Sisters | Matriarchs of Movements #WEMATTER

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In recognition of their leadership, talent, and impact, this year's Black History Month 2023 will highlight pioneering black women who have blazed a trail in literature, music, fashion, sport, business, hair, catering, academia, social and health care, and more.

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The NCSC's cyber security advice to protect you and your family, and the technology you rely on.

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Her appointment follows the departure of Clare Marchant in September 2023, after 6 years in the position, to take up the role of Vice Chancellor at the University of Gloucestershire.

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UCAS connects people to University, post Uni studies including teacher training, apprenticeships & internships. Find all the information for your next step.

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RSE what does this mean and how can i help as a parent? 

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RSE what does this mean and how can i help as a parent? 

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It's ok to tell your teen that you don't know the answer to something. Either tell them that you'll get back to them after you've done a bit of research or use it as an opportunity to do the research together. There are plenty of great resources and websites on the internet for parents and their children. If you're not sure where to start, try

We always love to hear from you, so do let us know if there are any subjects you'd like us to chat to you about. Don't forget, subscribe to our parent newsletter and receive all the latest tips, advice and support on how you can help your teenage child straight to your inbox. Stay safe and keep happy,

If you're interested in practical things you can do at home to support your teen with their studies and development, read The Parents' Guide to Homelife and study -

It's ok to tell your teen that you don't know the answer to something. Either tell them that you'll get back to them after you've done a bit of research or use it as an opportunity to do the research together. There are plenty of great resources and websites on the internet for parents and their children. If you're not sure where to start, try

We always love to hear from you, so do let us know if there are any subjects you'd like us to chat to you about. Don't forget, subscribe to our parent newsletter and receive all the latest tips, advice and support on how you can help your teenage child straight to your inbox. Stay safe and keep happy,

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"Relationships and Sex Education" - what does this mean for my teen and how can I help as a parent?

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As of 2020, Sex and Relationships Education ("SRE") was replaced by Relationships and Sex Education ("RSE") - and it's more than just switching the letters about! RSE is compulsory in secondary schools and the content has been updated since SRE's introduction in 2000 to reflect changes that teenagers now experience in an increasingly online world.

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WAKE UP WEDNESDAY:  Parents- do you know about the App MYLOL?

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WAKE UP WEDNESDAY:  Parents- do you know about the App MYLOL?

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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).

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Use Report Remove to remove a nude image shared online

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And Those Mads, Bads and Grumpies...
Anger Management Tips and Techniques to Decrease Anger Discover proven strategies for parents, teachers and counselors about discipline, parenting, bullying and divorce, lesson plans.
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Contact the Forced Marriage Unit (FMU) if you're trying to stop a forced marriage or you need help leaving a marriage you've been forced into.

Call 999 in an emergency.

A trained professional will give you free advice on what to do next.

They can also help you:

find a safe place to stay

stop a UK visa if you've been forced to sponsor someone

What forced marriage is

You have the right to choose who you marry, when you marry or if you marry at all.

Forced marriage is when you face physical pressure to marry (for example, threats, physical violence or sexual violence) or emotional and psychological pressure (for example, if you're made to feel like you're bringing shame on your family).

If you're under 18 any marriage is considered a forced marriage, even if there is no physical or emotional pressure involved.

Forced marriage offences

Forced marriage is illegal in England and Wales. This includes:

taking someone overseas to force them to marry (whether or not the forced marriage takes place)

arranging a marriage for someone who lacks mental capacity (whether they're pressured to or not)

arranging a marriage for someone before they turn 18

Forcing someone to marry can result in a sentence of up to 7 years in prison.

Forced marriage protection orders

You can ask the court for a forced marriage protection order.

Each order is unique, and is designed to protect you according to your individual circumstances. For example, the court may order someone to hand over your passport or reveal where you are.

In an emergency, an order can be made to protect you immediately.

Disobeying a forced marriage protection order can result in a sentence of up to 5 years in prison.

Forced marriage abroad

Contact the FMU if you think you're about to be taken abroad to get married against your will.

If someone you know is at risk

Contact the FMU if you know someone who's been taken abroad to be forced into marriage.

Give as many details as you can, for example:

where the person has gone

when they were due back

when you last heard from them

The FMU will contact the relevant embassy.

If they're a British national, the embassy will try to contact the person and help them get back to the UK if that's what they want.

Support for victims

Read the handbook about being a survivor of forced marriage. It has details of organisations that can give you help and advice.

Get support if you're a victim of forced marriage in Scotland.

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Get free, confidential support by phone from a trained volunteer, from 3pm to 12am every day.

Whatever is causing you concern, we're here to listen. Whether it's your mental health, your studies, worries about money or relationships, we can support you and help you move forward.

This service is delivered in partnership with The Mix.

Call us FREE on 0808 808 4994

What you can expect from this service?

When you call us, we'll connect you with a trained helpline supporter.

The helpline supporter will listen and help you talk through any issue that you are experiencing.

The helpline supporter will provide you with the time, support and tools to help you to move forward.

More about this service

1. What can I speak to you about?

You can talk to us about anything that is causing you concern or distress. Whether it's your mental health, your studies, money, housing or relationships, we're here to listen and help you move forward.

2. Is it free?

Yes. Our helpline is available through a freephone number.

3. Is it confidential?

We believe you have the right to use our services confidentially, meaning what you say stays with us. However, sometimes we might contact other agencies or organisations to get you, or someone else, help.

If we contact another agency or organisation we will always try and do this with you knowing and with your consent. We would do this without your consent if we believe there is a serious risk of harm to you or someone else.

4. When is it open?

Our phones are open 7 days a week from 3pm to 12am.

5. What kind of training do staff and volunteers get?

All our staff and volunteers undergo 30 hours of specialist training, including specialist modules on managing mental health conditions such as suicide and suicidal ideation, anxiety, depression and self-harm.

Whatever is causing you concern, we're here to listen. Whether it's your mental health, your studies, worries about money or relationships, we can support you and help you move forward.

This service is delivered in partnership with The Mix.

Call us FREE on 0808 808 4994

What you can expect from this service?

When you call us, we'll connect you with a trained helpline supporter.

The helpline supporter will listen and help you talk through any issue that you are experiencing.

The helpline supporter will provide you with the time, support and tools to help you to move forward.

More about this service

1. What can I speak to you about?

You can talk to us about anything that is causing you concern or distress. Whether it's your mental health, your studies, money, housing or relationships, we're here to listen and help you move forward.

2. Is it free?

Yes. Our helpline is available through a freephone number.

3. Is it confidential?

We believe you have the right to use our services confidentially, meaning what you say stays with us. However, sometimes we might contact other agencies or organisations to get you, or someone else, help.

If we contact another agency or organisation we will always try and do this with you knowing and with your consent. We would do this without your consent if we believe there is a serious risk of harm to you or someone else.

4. When is it open?

Our phones are open 7 days a week from 3pm to 12am.

5. What kind of training do staff and volunteers get?

All our staff and volunteers undergo 30 hours of specialist training, including specialist modules on managing mental health conditions such as suicide and suicidal ideation, anxiety, depression and self-harm.

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Get free, confidential support by phone from a trained volunteer, from 3pm to 12am every day.

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Donate money

13,998

people received emergency food supplies from us during 2022

1 IN 5

of the UK population live below the poverty line

Our shopping list can be found here .

GETTING HELP
For those requiring food parcels, we are operating as usual: Monday - Saturday, 10am - 1pm. If you are struggling to get a foodbank voucher referral or to collect a food parcel, please contact the Citizens Advice Bureau on freephone 0800 061 4808.

GIVING HELP
We're gratefully accepting food donations - the easiest way to get food to us is to pop it in one of the collection points at the local supermarkets in Watford. We currently have points in Asda, Sainsbury's and Tesco Extra. You can see a list of our urgently needed items here .

Alternatively, you can drop food off at our warehouse (WD24 4YH) between 10am and 1pm, Monday - Saturday.

If you're able to support us financially, please follow the link to make a donation . Thank you for your support!

HOW THE FOODBANK WORKS
Watford Foodbank is here to help individuals and families in crisis by providing free emergency food as well as support until the appropriate agencies are in a position to assist. Tinned and dried food is collected from the public at supermarkets, churches, schools and other local groups and "banked" in a warehouse. Food is then given to people in crisis as a result of referrals from registered care professionals, such as Citizens Advice Bureau .

We are now funding a freephone line at Watford Citizens Advice for clients who need a foodbank voucher. The number is 0800 061 4808. Calls will be picked up Monday - Friday, 10am - midday. If you call outside of these hours, please leave a message and a member of the team will get back to you!

Find out more about foodbank vouchers here.

Find out how to get help from our foodbank

Get help

We need your support - find out how to get involved

Give help

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Donate money 13,998 people received emergency food supplies from us during 2022 1 IN 5 of the UK population live below the poverty line GETTING HELP For those requiring food parcels, we are operating as usual: Monday - Saturday, 10am - 1pm.

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Getting someone through a medical crisis

Basic first aid procedures can help you get someone through a medical crisis, at least until the paramedics arrive or you can get them to a hospital. The best way to prepare for these events is to get official first aid training, such as that offered by the American Red Cross.

Until you're able to do that, though, you can learn some basic first aid procedures. That way, you can respond the right way when someone needs you to.

First aid is the care a sick or injured person gets before they get full medical treatment. In some cases, it may be the only care someone needs, while in others, it may keep them safe until paramedics arrive or someone else gets them to the hospital.

First aid can include everything from bandaging a minor wound to preventing shock to keeping someone's heart beating during a cardiac event. Ideally, it should be performed by someone who's taken a class and is certified in first aid, but if no one is available, anyone with some basic knowledge can pitch in.

When someone is unconscious or unresponsive, a basic tenet of first aid is ABC:

Airway: If someone's not breathing, clear their airway.

Breathing: If the airway is clear and they're still not breathing, provide rescue breathing.

Circulation: Chest compressions to keep blood circulating should be performed along with rescue breathing. If the person is breathing but unresponsive, check their pulse to see if their heart has stopped and, if so, provide chest compressions.

An alternate and simpler version of the ABCs is:

Awake? If not, try to wake them. If they don't wake up, make sure someone is calling 911 and move on to B.

Breathing? If not, start rescue breathing and chest compressions. If so, move on to C.

Continue care: Follow instructions from 911 or continue treatment until an ambulance arrives.

Some courses also include D and possibly E, as well:

D can stand for disability assessment, which is fairly complicated for someone without medical training. It also sometimes stands for deadly bleeding, which needs to be stopped, or defibrillator if someone's heart has stopped and an automated external defibrillator (AED) device is available.

E stands for examination-evaluating the person for signs of injury, bleeding, allergies, or other problems once you know they're breathing and their heart is beating.

What is an AED?

An AED, or automated external defibrillator, is a portable, easy-to-use device that can check someone's heart rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an electric shock to correct the rhythm.

CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is the most important medical procedure of all. If a person is in cardiac arrest (the heart is no longer pumping blood) and CPR is not performed, that person will die. On the other hand, performing CPR or using an AED could save a life.

AEDs are available in many public areas and businesses. These devices are simplified for use even if you have never been trained. CPR training will include getting familiar with AED use, which can save valuable time if you need to use one.

First Aid for Suspected Cardiac Arrest

When you suspect someone is in cardiac arrest:

Get someone to call 911 or the medical alert system for your location.

Start chest compressions immediately. Push down hard and fast in the center of the chest, allowing the chest to come back up naturally between compressions. Continue until someone with more training has arrived.

If you're trained in CPR, use chest compressions and rescue breathing.

Use an AED if one is available. It's important to not delay chest compressions, though, so have someone else find one while you do chest compressions.

Taking a formal CPR class will help you become familiar with chest compressions, rescue breathing, and AED use, and that can make all the difference if you're around when someone has a heart attack. To take a class, contact your local chapter of the American Red Cross or look online for classes in your community. You can also take an online-only class if none are available in your area.

Bleeding

Bleeding is usually fairly obvious, especially if it's severe. While it is important to stop the bleeding, remember the ABCs and check first for something more serious.

Regardless of severity, almost all bleeding can be controlled, so don't think you can't help someone who's bleeding a lot. If severe bleeding is allowed to continue, it can lead to shock and, eventually, death.

It's easy to overestimate the amount of blood loss you're witnessing. To get an accurate assessment of what type of bleeding it is, look at its color and how it's leaving the body.

Capillaries: Bleeding from capillaries, which are the smallest blood vessels, looks like a trickle and will usually stop on its own.

Veins: A consistent blood flow and blood that's a dark red color is most likely coming from the veins. It can result in anywhere from mild to severe bleeding that can be rapid.

Arteries: Arteries are the largest blood vessels and are under pressure, so blood spurts from the wound. It's also bright red, as it carries more oxygen. Blood can be lost most rapidly from an arterial bleed and it's always considered an emergency.

Call 911 or get the person to a hospital any time you suspect arterial bleeding, blood is soaking through bandages, or the bleeding won't stop. Make sure someone can keep treating the person during the drive or while you wait for an ambulance.

Whenever possible, wash your hands when treating a wound to help prevent infection. Wear latex or nitrile gloves if they're available. This can protect you from infections in the injured person's blood, including viral hepatitis or HIV/AIDS.

First Aid for Bleeding

If you're faced with bleeding:

Rinse the wound with water if possible.

Cover the wound with a gauze or cloth (towel, blanket, clothing, whatever's available).

Apply direct pressure to stop the blood flow and encourage clotting.

If possible, elevate the bleeding body part above the heart.

Don't remove the cloth if it becomes soaked through, but add more layers if needed. Removing the first layer will interfere with the clotting process and result in more blood loss.

Once bleeding is stopped, apply a clean bandage.

Get medical help when the wound:

Is deep

Has widely separated sides

Oozes blood after pressure has been applied

Is from a bite (human or animal)

Is a puncture, burn, or electrical injury

Should You Use a Tourniquet?

Using a tourniquet is somewhat controversial except in dire emergencies in which a person's life could be at stake. Some argue that tourniquets can do more harm than good, possibly leading to a limb amputation due to tissue damage.

A 2018 review of published research found that some arterial injury and limb damage were reported, but infrequently. However, the studies they examined had a lot of shortcomings and inconsistencies. The researchers called for standardized data collection of limb trauma and tourniquet use to help determine their safety and effectiveness.

The value of using elevation or pressure points (pressing on an artery to slow blood flow) is debated, with some experts and organizations saying to use them and others leaving these steps out of their first aid instruction.

Choking

Choking due to a windpipe obstruction is a serious situation that can make someone lose consciousness and even die if the obstruction isn't removed. Procedures are different for babies who are less than a year old.

Before you start first aid on someone for choking, make sure they really need it. If they're coughing or talking, leave them alone. That's not really choking. Signs of choking include:

Gagging, gasping, or wheezing

Inability to talk or make noise

Turning blue in the face

Grabbing at the throat

Waving arms

Appearing panicked

If the person is conscious and old enough to respond properly, ask if they're choking before you start first aid. In anyone but an infant, that means performing the Heimlich maneuver.

First Aid for Choking

To perform the Heimlich maneuver:

Stand behind the person and lean them slightly forward

Put your arms around their waist

Clench a fist and place it between their navel and rib cage

Grab your fist with your other hand

Pull the clenched fist sharply backward and upward under their rib cage in 5 quick thrusts. Repeat until the object is coughed up.

For someone who's obese or pregnant, perform thrusts around the chest instead of the abdomen.

If someone is unconscious:

Place them on their back and kneel over them

Place the heel of your hand slightly above the navel

Place your other hand on top of it

Give quick upward thrusts to dislodge the obstruction

Burns

The first step to treating a burn is to stop the burning process. Chemicals need to be cleaned off. Electricity needs to be turned off. Heat needs to be cooled down with running water. Sunburn victims need to be covered up or go inside.

No matter what caused the burns or how bad they are, stopping the burn comes before treating the burn. The severity of a burn is based on its depth and size:

First-degree burn: This affects only the outer layer of skin and causes redness and swelling. It is always considered a minor burn.

Second-degree burn: This affects two layers of skin and causes blistering along with redness and swelling. It is considered a major burn if it's more than 3 inches wide or on the face, hands, feet, genitals, buttocks, or over a major joint.

Third-degree burns: This affects deeper layers of skin and causes white or blackened skin that may be numb. It is always considered a major burn.

Major burns need emergency medical attention, so call 911 or get someone else to call once the burning process has been stopped.

First Aid for Burns

Take these first aid steps:

Flush the burned area with cool running water for several minutes. Do not use ice.

Apply a light gauze bandage.

Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain relief if necessary.

Do not break any blisters that may have formed.

Do not apply ointments, butter, or oily remedies to a burn.

Blisters

Whether a blister needs any treatment is debatable. If the blister is small, unbroken, and not very painful, it's probably best to leave it alone. Cover it to prevent continued rubbing and pressure that could cause it to swell more and possibly burst on its own.

Blisters are designed to protect the damaged skin underneath while it heals. Popping them not only disrupts this natural healing process, but it can also let in bacteria that cause an infection.

If you have a compromised immune system-such as from HIV/AIDS, cancer, diabetes, or immunosuppressant drugs -you have a heightened risk of infection and shouldn't drain a blister on your own. Your doctor may want to drain it to protect you from infection.

First Aid for Blisters

If the blister is large or painful-especially if the activity that caused it isn't finished (such as if you are in the middle of a hike)-follow these steps to drain and dress a blister:

Wash your hands and sterilize a needle with alcohol.

Make small punctures at the edge of the blister.

Gently push the fluid out.

Apply antibiotic ointment.

Bandage it.

If possible, take steps to protect the area from further rubbing or pressure.

If the blister broke open on its own:

Gently wash with clean water only.

Smooth the flap of broken skin over the newly exposed skin, unless it's dirty, torn, or pus has gathered under it.

Apply petroleum jelly.

Bandage it.

Change the bandage any time it gets wet. Take it off when you go to bed so the area can dry.

Broken Bone or Fracture

Any injury to your limbs, hands, and feet needs to be treated as a broken bone (fracture) until an X-ray can confirm whether it's broken. While fractures do need medical treatment so they can heal properly, they don't all require an ambulance or an emergency trip to the hospital.

However, you should call 911 immediately if:

The person is bleeding profusely, unconscious or unresponsive, not breathing, or has numerous injuries (try to stop the bleeding or start CPR if necessary)

You suspect a fracture or other serious injury to the spinal column, head, hip, pelvis, or thigh-the person should not be moved except by trained medical personnel

A broken bone protrudes from the skin (called an open or compound fracture)

The area below an injured joint feels cold and clammy or becomes bluish

You can't immobilize the injury well enough to transport the person

Otherwise, after using first aid, you can go to urgent care or contact your doctor's office and ask for guidance. They'll likely want to see the injured person right away so any broken bone(s) can be properly set and treated.

First Aid for Suspected Fracture

Take these steps for a suspected fracture:

Don't try to straighten it.

For a limb, use a splint and padding to immobilize it.

Put a cold pack on the injury, with a barrier between it and the skin to prevent tissue damage. If ice is all that's available, put it in a plastic bag and wrap it in a shirt or towel.

If it's an extremity, elevate it.

Give anti-inflammatory drugs like Advil (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen) for pain.

Research has shown that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Advil and Aleve can slow bone healing, which is a process that depends on inflammation. However, short-term NSAID use appears to have little or no effect and doesn't appear to have a significant effect on bone healing in children. So it should be safe to use these medications to help the person get through the intense, acute pain that follows a fracture.

Sprains

A sprain is an injury to ligaments, which are connective tissues that holds bones, cartilage, and joints together. Sprains are generally caused by a violent wrenching or twisting of a joint, which over-stretches or tears the ligament. Common places for a sprain are the ankle and wrist.

The symptoms of a sprain are almost exactly the same as those of a broken bone (barring a compound fracture or visible deformities). Because even a doctor may not be sure whether it's a break or sprain until after an X-ray, first aid for sprains should be largely the same as for broken bones.

The first thing to do is make sure the injured person stops any unnecessary activity so they don't make the injury worse. Then you can begin first aid.

First Aid for Sprains

For a suspected sprain:

Immobilize the limb

Apply a cold pack

Elevate the injured part if you can do so safely

Use NSAIDs for pain

See your doctor soon for further diagnosis and treatment.

As with fractures, sprains often don't require emergency treatment. However, you should get immediate medical care if the injured person has:

Severe pain with movement or touch

Ongoing inability to bear weight on the injured joint

Increased bruising

Numbness or pins-and-needles near the sprain

Signs of infection

Little or no improvement during the first week

Nosebleeds

Most of us have had a bloody nose at some time in our lives. It simply means bleeding from the inside of the nose due to trauma. The biggest cause of a nosebleed is digital trauma-otherwise known as picking it. It can also be caused by environmental factors, medical conditions (some minor, some serious), medications, and recreational drugs. Causes include:

Many of these things dry out or damage the delicate nasal membranes in your nostrils, causing them to become crusty and burst when irritated.

First Aid for Nosebleed

The first aid for nosebleed includes:

Lean slightly forward, not back.

Pinch the nose just below the bridge, high enough that the nostrils aren't pinched closed.

Check after five minutes to see if bleeding has stopped. If not, continue pinching and check after another 10 minutes.

You can also apply a cold pack to the bridge of the nose while pinching.

See a doctor if:

You get frequent nosebleeds

You have anemia symptoms (weakness, faintness, fatigue, pale skin)

You're taking blood thinners

You have a clotting disorder

You just started a new medication

You also have unusual bruising

A nosebleed needs emergency medical treatment when:

It won't stop even after more than 15 minutes of direct pressure

You're losing a lot of blood

You have a hard time breathing

You've swallowed a lot of blood and vomited it up

You've had a serious injury or a blow to the head

Frostbite

Frostbite occurs when the body's tissues freeze deeply in the cold-ice crystals form in the tissues and damage your cells. This is the opposite of a burn, but the damage it does to your skin is almost identical.

First Aid for Frostbite

Treating frostbite is a delicate procedure of gradual warming. If at all possible, this should be done by professionals at a medical facility. If that's not possible, or while awaiting an ambulance, you can begin first aid:

Get out of the cold.

Immerse the affected area in warm water (98 to 105 F) for 20 to 30 minutes.

Do not rub the affected area.

Do not use sources of dry heat (like a heating pad or fire air).

For fingers and toes: After they're warm, put clean cotton balls between them.

Loosely wrap the area with bandages.

Use Tylenol or Advil for pain.

Get medical attention as soon as possible.

For small areas of minor frostbite, you can also warm the area with skin-to-skin contact.

Get emergency treatment if the skin is hard and begins turning white.

Bee Stings

Bee stings are annoyingly painful for most people, but they can be deadly for those who are allergic to bee venom.

First Aid for Bee-Venom Allergy

If the person who was stung has a known allergy to bee stings, use an EpiPen to prevent anaphylaxis. If one isn't available, call 911.

An allergy to bees can develop at any time, even in someone who's been stung many times before, so it's important to always watch for signs of an allergic reaction after a sting. Just about any bee sting will cause pain, redness, and swelling. In an allergic reaction, look for:

Swelling away from the area that was stung

Flushing

Hives

Itching

Signs of anaphylaxis, which include impaired breathing and shock (anxiety, bluish lips and fingernails, chest pain, confusion, dizziness, profuse sweating, and skin that's pale, cool, and clammy)

Call 911 immediately or get the person to the hospital if any of these signs appear.

In someone without a known bee allergy, watch for signs of an allergy while performing first aid.

First Aid for Bee Stings

Follow these steps for bee sting first aid:

Get the stinger out any way you can to keep it from injecting more venom. The method doesn't matter-it's most important to do it quickly.

Wash the area with soap and water.

Use a cold pack to reduce swelling at the site, but don't apply ice directly to the skin.

Use an antihistamine like Benadryl (diphenhydramine) to reduce swelling and itching.

Use Advil or Tylenol for pain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the ABCs of first aid?

ABC in first aid traditionally stands for airway, breathing, and circulation. When someone is unconscious or unresponsive, you should check and clear their airway and provide rescue breathing and chest compressions. ABC can also stand for awake, breathing, and continue care.

What are common first-aid procedures?

First-aid procedures covered in a basic course include CPR, the Heimlich maneuver, and how to assess and treat minor injuries including wounds, burns, sprains, and broken bones.

What are the three Ps of first aid?

The three Ps of first aid are:

Preserve life

Prevent deterioration

Promote recovery

Thanks for your feedback!

What are your concerns?

Other Inaccurate Hard to Understand

Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

American Red Cross. What is AED?

American Heart Association. Saving lives: Why CPR AED training matter. Updated June 4, 2020.

KidsHealth from Nemours. First aid: Cuts. Updated July 2018.

National Institutes of Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus. Bleeding. Updated April 2, 2021.

Harvard Medical School, Harvard Health Publishing. Emergencies and first aid- Direct pressure to stop bleeding. Updated February 3, 2017.

American College of Surgeons. Stop the bleed: Save a life. Updated 2017.

American College of Emergency Physicians: EmergencyPhysicians.org. Choking/Heimlich maneuver.

KidsHealth by Nemours. First aid: Choking. Updated January 2018.

National CPR Foundation. Choking, hypothermia & dehydration.

American Burn Association. Initial first aid treatment for minor burns.

National Institutes of Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus. Burns. Updated April 2, 2021.

Cleveland Clinic. Blisters: Caues, treatments - and why you should never pop them. Updated August 31, 2018.

University of Michigan, Michigan Medicine. Blister care. Updated February 26, 2020.

KidsHealth from Nemours. First aid: Broken bones. Updated May 2018.

TeensHealth from Nemours. First aid: Broken bones. Updated May 2018.

Cleveland Clinic. Sprains of the ankle, knee, and wrist. July 28, 2020.

KidsHealth from Nemours. First aid: Strains and sprains. July 2018.

Cleveland Clinic. Nosebleed (epistaxis). October 23, 2019.

TeensHealth from Nemours. Nosebleeds. Updated September 2019.

KidsHealth from Nemours. First aid: Frostbite. Updated July 2018.

American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology: Allergist. Insect sting allergy. Updated February 5, 2018.

Institutes of Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus. Shock. Updated April 2, 2021.

American Red Cross. First aid steps.

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Basic First Aid Procedures You Should Know

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Basic first aid procedures can help you get someone through a medical crisis, at least until the paramedics arrive or you can get them to a hospital. The best way to prepare for these events is to get official first aid training, such as that offered by the American Red Cross.

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Getting someone through a medical crisis

Basic first aid procedures can help you get someone through a medical crisis, at least until the paramedics arrive or you can get them to a hospital. The best way to prepare for these events is to get official first aid training, such as that offered by the American Red Cross.

Until you're able to do that, though, you can learn some basic first aid procedures. That way, you can respond the right way when someone needs you to.

First aid is the care a sick or injured person gets before they get full medical treatment. In some cases, it may be the only care someone needs, while in others, it may keep them safe until paramedics arrive or someone else gets them to the hospital.

First aid can include everything from bandaging a minor wound to preventing shock to keeping someone's heart beating during a cardiac event. Ideally, it should be performed by someone who's taken a class and is certified in first aid, but if no one is available, anyone with some basic knowledge can pitch in.

When someone is unconscious or unresponsive, a basic tenet of first aid is ABC:

Airway: If someone's not breathing, clear their airway.

Breathing: If the airway is clear and they're still not breathing, provide rescue breathing.

Circulation: Chest compressions to keep blood circulating should be performed along with rescue breathing. If the person is breathing but unresponsive, check their pulse to see if their heart has stopped and, if so, provide chest compressions.

An alternate and simpler version of the ABCs is:

Awake? If not, try to wake them. If they don't wake up, make sure someone is calling 911 and move on to B.

Breathing? If not, start rescue breathing and chest compressions. If so, move on to C.

Continue care: Follow instructions from 911 or continue treatment until an ambulance arrives.

Some courses also include D and possibly E, as well:

D can stand for disability assessment, which is fairly complicated for someone without medical training. It also sometimes stands for deadly bleeding, which needs to be stopped, or defibrillator if someone's heart has stopped and an automated external defibrillator (AED) device is available.

E stands for examination-evaluating the person for signs of injury, bleeding, allergies, or other problems once you know they're breathing and their heart is beating.

What is an AED?

An AED, or automated external defibrillator, is a portable, easy-to-use device that can check someone's heart rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an electric shock to correct the rhythm.

CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is the most important medical procedure of all. If a person is in cardiac arrest (the heart is no longer pumping blood) and CPR is not performed, that person will die. On the other hand, performing CPR or using an AED could save a life.

AEDs are available in many public areas and businesses. These devices are simplified for use even if you have never been trained. CPR training will include getting familiar with AED use, which can save valuable time if you need to use one.

First Aid for Suspected Cardiac Arrest

When you suspect someone is in cardiac arrest:

Get someone to call 911 or the medical alert system for your location.

Start chest compressions immediately. Push down hard and fast in the center of the chest, allowing the chest to come back up naturally between compressions. Continue until someone with more training has arrived.

If you're trained in CPR, use chest compressions and rescue breathing.

Use an AED if one is available. It's important to not delay chest compressions, though, so have someone else find one while you do chest compressions.

Taking a formal CPR class will help you become familiar with chest compressions, rescue breathing, and AED use, and that can make all the difference if you're around when someone has a heart attack. To take a class, contact your local chapter of the American Red Cross or look online for classes in your community. You can also take an online-only class if none are available in your area.

Bleeding

Bleeding is usually fairly obvious, especially if it's severe. While it is important to stop the bleeding, remember the ABCs and check first for something more serious.

Regardless of severity, almost all bleeding can be controlled, so don't think you can't help someone who's bleeding a lot. If severe bleeding is allowed to continue, it can lead to shock and, eventually, death.

It's easy to overestimate the amount of blood loss you're witnessing. To get an accurate assessment of what type of bleeding it is, look at its color and how it's leaving the body.

Capillaries: Bleeding from capillaries, which are the smallest blood vessels, looks like a trickle and will usually stop on its own.

Veins: A consistent blood flow and blood that's a dark red color is most likely coming from the veins. It can result in anywhere from mild to severe bleeding that can be rapid.

Arteries: Arteries are the largest blood vessels and are under pressure, so blood spurts from the wound. It's also bright red, as it carries more oxygen. Blood can be lost most rapidly from an arterial bleed and it's always considered an emergency.

Call 911 or get the person to a hospital any time you suspect arterial bleeding, blood is soaking through bandages, or the bleeding won't stop. Make sure someone can keep treating the person during the drive or while you wait for an ambulance.

Whenever possible, wash your hands when treating a wound to help prevent infection. Wear latex or nitrile gloves if they're available. This can protect you from infections in the injured person's blood, including viral hepatitis or HIV/AIDS.

First Aid for Bleeding

If you're faced with bleeding:

Rinse the wound with water if possible.

Cover the wound with a gauze or cloth (towel, blanket, clothing, whatever's available).

Apply direct pressure to stop the blood flow and encourage clotting.

If possible, elevate the bleeding body part above the heart.

Don't remove the cloth if it becomes soaked through, but add more layers if needed. Removing the first layer will interfere with the clotting process and result in more blood loss.

Once bleeding is stopped, apply a clean bandage.

Get medical help when the wound:

Is deep

Has widely separated sides

Oozes blood after pressure has been applied

Is from a bite (human or animal)

Is a puncture, burn, or electrical injury

Should You Use a Tourniquet?

Using a tourniquet is somewhat controversial except in dire emergencies in which a person's life could be at stake. Some argue that tourniquets can do more harm than good, possibly leading to a limb amputation due to tissue damage.

A 2018 review of published research found that some arterial injury and limb damage were reported, but infrequently. However, the studies they examined had a lot of shortcomings and inconsistencies. The researchers called for standardized data collection of limb trauma and tourniquet use to help determine their safety and effectiveness.

The value of using elevation or pressure points (pressing on an artery to slow blood flow) is debated, with some experts and organizations saying to use them and others leaving these steps out of their first aid instruction.

Choking

Choking due to a windpipe obstruction is a serious situation that can make someone lose consciousness and even die if the obstruction isn't removed. Procedures are different for babies who are less than a year old.

Before you start first aid on someone for choking, make sure they really need it. If they're coughing or talking, leave them alone. That's not really choking. Signs of choking include:

Gagging, gasping, or wheezing

Inability to talk or make noise

Turning blue in the face

Grabbing at the throat

Waving arms

Appearing panicked

If the person is conscious and old enough to respond properly, ask if they're choking before you start first aid. In anyone but an infant, that means performing the Heimlich maneuver.

First Aid for Choking

To perform the Heimlich maneuver:

Stand behind the person and lean them slightly forward

Put your arms around their waist

Clench a fist and place it between their navel and rib cage

Grab your fist with your other hand

Pull the clenched fist sharply backward and upward under their rib cage in 5 quick thrusts. Repeat until the object is coughed up.

For someone who's obese or pregnant, perform thrusts around the chest instead of the abdomen.

If someone is unconscious:

Place them on their back and kneel over them

Place the heel of your hand slightly above the navel

Place your other hand on top of it

Give quick upward thrusts to dislodge the obstruction

Burns

The first step to treating a burn is to stop the burning process. Chemicals need to be cleaned off. Electricity needs to be turned off. Heat needs to be cooled down with running water. Sunburn victims need to be covered up or go inside.

No matter what caused the burns or how bad they are, stopping the burn comes before treating the burn. The severity of a burn is based on its depth and size:

First-degree burn: This affects only the outer layer of skin and causes redness and swelling. It is always considered a minor burn.

Second-degree burn: This affects two layers of skin and causes blistering along with redness and swelling. It is considered a major burn if it's more than 3 inches wide or on the face, hands, feet, genitals, buttocks, or over a major joint.

Third-degree burns: This affects deeper layers of skin and causes white or blackened skin that may be numb. It is always considered a major burn.

Major burns need emergency medical attention, so call 911 or get someone else to call once the burning process has been stopped.

First Aid for Burns

Take these first aid steps:

Flush the burned area with cool running water for several minutes. Do not use ice.

Apply a light gauze bandage.

Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain relief if necessary.

Do not break any blisters that may have formed.

Do not apply ointments, butter, or oily remedies to a burn.

Blisters

Whether a blister needs any treatment is debatable. If the blister is small, unbroken, and not very painful, it's probably best to leave it alone. Cover it to prevent continued rubbing and pressure that could cause it to swell more and possibly burst on its own.

Blisters are designed to protect the damaged skin underneath while it heals. Popping them not only disrupts this natural healing process, but it can also let in bacteria that cause an infection.

If you have a compromised immune system-such as from HIV/AIDS, cancer, diabetes, or immunosuppressant drugs -you have a heightened risk of infection and shouldn't drain a blister on your own. Your doctor may want to drain it to protect you from infection.

First Aid for Blisters

If the blister is large or painful-especially if the activity that caused it isn't finished (such as if you are in the middle of a hike)-follow these steps to drain and dress a blister:

Wash your hands and sterilize a needle with alcohol.

Make small punctures at the edge of the blister.

Gently push the fluid out.

Apply antibiotic ointment.

Bandage it.

If possible, take steps to protect the area from further rubbing or pressure.

If the blister broke open on its own:

Gently wash with clean water only.

Smooth the flap of broken skin over the newly exposed skin, unless it's dirty, torn, or pus has gathered under it.

Apply petroleum jelly.

Bandage it.

Change the bandage any time it gets wet. Take it off when you go to bed so the area can dry.

Broken Bone or Fracture

Any injury to your limbs, hands, and feet needs to be treated as a broken bone (fracture) until an X-ray can confirm whether it's broken. While fractures do need medical treatment so they can heal properly, they don't all require an ambulance or an emergency trip to the hospital.

However, you should call 911 immediately if:

The person is bleeding profusely, unconscious or unresponsive, not breathing, or has numerous injuries (try to stop the bleeding or start CPR if necessary)

You suspect a fracture or other serious injury to the spinal column, head, hip, pelvis, or thigh-the person should not be moved except by trained medical personnel

A broken bone protrudes from the skin (called an open or compound fracture)

The area below an injured joint feels cold and clammy or becomes bluish

You can't immobilize the injury well enough to transport the person

Otherwise, after using first aid, you can go to urgent care or contact your doctor's office and ask for guidance. They'll likely want to see the injured person right away so any broken bone(s) can be properly set and treated.

First Aid for Suspected Fracture

Take these steps for a suspected fracture:

Don't try to straighten it.

For a limb, use a splint and padding to immobilize it.

Put a cold pack on the injury, with a barrier between it and the skin to prevent tissue damage. If ice is all that's available, put it in a plastic bag and wrap it in a shirt or towel.

If it's an extremity, elevate it.

Give anti-inflammatory drugs like Advil (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen) for pain.

Research has shown that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Advil and Aleve can slow bone healing, which is a process that depends on inflammation. However, short-term NSAID use appears to have little or no effect and doesn't appear to have a significant effect on bone healing in children. So it should be safe to use these medications to help the person get through the intense, acute pain that follows a fracture.

Sprains

A sprain is an injury to ligaments, which are connective tissues that holds bones, cartilage, and joints together. Sprains are generally caused by a violent wrenching or twisting of a joint, which over-stretches or tears the ligament. Common places for a sprain are the ankle and wrist.

The symptoms of a sprain are almost exactly the same as those of a broken bone (barring a compound fracture or visible deformities). Because even a doctor may not be sure whether it's a break or sprain until after an X-ray, first aid for sprains should be largely the same as for broken bones.

The first thing to do is make sure the injured person stops any unnecessary activity so they don't make the injury worse. Then you can begin first aid.

First Aid for Sprains

For a suspected sprain:

Immobilize the limb

Apply a cold pack

Elevate the injured part if you can do so safely

Use NSAIDs for pain

See your doctor soon for further diagnosis and treatment.

As with fractures, sprains often don't require emergency treatment. However, you should get immediate medical care if the injured person has:

Severe pain with movement or touch

Ongoing inability to bear weight on the injured joint

Increased bruising

Numbness or pins-and-needles near the sprain

Signs of infection

Little or no improvement during the first week

Nosebleeds

Most of us have had a bloody nose at some time in our lives. It simply means bleeding from the inside of the nose due to trauma. The biggest cause of a nosebleed is digital trauma-otherwise known as picking it. It can also be caused by environmental factors, medical conditions (some minor, some serious), medications, and recreational drugs. Causes include:

Many of these things dry out or damage the delicate nasal membranes in your nostrils, causing them to become crusty and burst when irritated.

First Aid for Nosebleed

The first aid for nosebleed includes:

Lean slightly forward, not back.

Pinch the nose just below the bridge, high enough that the nostrils aren't pinched closed.

Check after five minutes to see if bleeding has stopped. If not, continue pinching and check after another 10 minutes.

You can also apply a cold pack to the bridge of the nose while pinching.

See a doctor if:

You get frequent nosebleeds

You have anemia symptoms (weakness, faintness, fatigue, pale skin)

You're taking blood thinners

You have a clotting disorder

You just started a new medication

You also have unusual bruising

A nosebleed needs emergency medical treatment when:

It won't stop even after more than 15 minutes of direct pressure

You're losing a lot of blood

You have a hard time breathing

You've swallowed a lot of blood and vomited it up

You've had a serious injury or a blow to the head

Frostbite

Frostbite occurs when the body's tissues freeze deeply in the cold-ice crystals form in the tissues and damage your cells. This is the opposite of a burn, but the damage it does to your skin is almost identical.

First Aid for Frostbite

Treating frostbite is a delicate procedure of gradual warming. If at all possible, this should be done by professionals at a medical facility. If that's not possible, or while awaiting an ambulance, you can begin first aid:

Get out of the cold.

Immerse the affected area in warm water (98 to 105 F) for 20 to 30 minutes.

Do not rub the affected area.

Do not use sources of dry heat (like a heating pad or fire air).

For fingers and toes: After they're warm, put clean cotton balls between them.

Loosely wrap the area with bandages.

Use Tylenol or Advil for pain.

Get medical attention as soon as possible.

For small areas of minor frostbite, you can also warm the area with skin-to-skin contact.

Get emergency treatment if the skin is hard and begins turning white.

Bee Stings

Bee stings are annoyingly painful for most people, but they can be deadly for those who are allergic to bee venom.

First Aid for Bee-Venom Allergy

If the person who was stung has a known allergy to bee stings, use an EpiPen to prevent anaphylaxis. If one isn't available, call 911.

An allergy to bees can develop at any time, even in someone who's been stung many times before, so it's important to always watch for signs of an allergic reaction after a sting. Just about any bee sting will cause pain, redness, and swelling. In an allergic reaction, look for:

Swelling away from the area that was stung

Flushing

Hives

Itching

Signs of anaphylaxis, which include impaired breathing and shock (anxiety, bluish lips and fingernails, chest pain, confusion, dizziness, profuse sweating, and skin that's pale, cool, and clammy)

Call 911 immediately or get the person to the hospital if any of these signs appear.

In someone without a known bee allergy, watch for signs of an allergy while performing first aid.

First Aid for Bee Stings

Follow these steps for bee sting first aid:

Get the stinger out any way you can to keep it from injecting more venom. The method doesn't matter-it's most important to do it quickly.

Wash the area with soap and water.

Use a cold pack to reduce swelling at the site, but don't apply ice directly to the skin.

Use an antihistamine like Benadryl (diphenhydramine) to reduce swelling and itching.

Use Advil or Tylenol for pain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the ABCs of first aid?

ABC in first aid traditionally stands for airway, breathing, and circulation. When someone is unconscious or unresponsive, you should check and clear their airway and provide rescue breathing and chest compressions. ABC can also stand for awake, breathing, and continue care.

What are common first-aid procedures?

First-aid procedures covered in a basic course include CPR, the Heimlich maneuver, and how to assess and treat minor injuries including wounds, burns, sprains, and broken bones.

What are the three Ps of first aid?

The three Ps of first aid are:

Preserve life

Prevent deterioration

Promote recovery

Thanks for your feedback!

What are your concerns?

Other Inaccurate Hard to Understand

Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

American Red Cross. What is AED?

American Heart Association. Saving lives: Why CPR AED training matter. Updated June 4, 2020.

KidsHealth from Nemours. First aid: Cuts. Updated July 2018.

National Institutes of Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus. Bleeding. Updated April 2, 2021.

Harvard Medical School, Harvard Health Publishing. Emergencies and first aid- Direct pressure to stop bleeding. Updated February 3, 2017.

American College of Surgeons. Stop the bleed: Save a life. Updated 2017.

American College of Emergency Physicians: EmergencyPhysicians.org. Choking/Heimlich maneuver.

KidsHealth by Nemours. First aid: Choking. Updated January 2018.

National CPR Foundation. Choking, hypothermia & dehydration.

American Burn Association. Initial first aid treatment for minor burns.

National Institutes of Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus. Burns. Updated April 2, 2021.

Cleveland Clinic. Blisters: Caues, treatments - and why you should never pop them. Updated August 31, 2018.

University of Michigan, Michigan Medicine. Blister care. Updated February 26, 2020.

KidsHealth from Nemours. First aid: Broken bones. Updated May 2018.

TeensHealth from Nemours. First aid: Broken bones. Updated May 2018.

Cleveland Clinic. Sprains of the ankle, knee, and wrist. July 28, 2020.

KidsHealth from Nemours. First aid: Strains and sprains. July 2018.

Cleveland Clinic. Nosebleed (epistaxis). October 23, 2019.

TeensHealth from Nemours. Nosebleeds. Updated September 2019.

KidsHealth from Nemours. First aid: Frostbite. Updated July 2018.

American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology: Allergist. Insect sting allergy. Updated February 5, 2018.

Institutes of Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus. Shock. Updated April 2, 2021.

American Red Cross. First aid steps.

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Basic First Aid Procedures You Should Know

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Basic first aid procedures can help you get someone through a medical crisis, at least until the paramedics arrive or you can get them to a hospital. The best way to prepare for these events is to get official first aid training, such as that offered by the American Red Cross.

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A Parent’s First Aid Guide for Treating 10 Common Kid Injuries

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Sometimes, kids get hurt—it comes with the territory! Here are 10 basic first-aid tips for bumps and burns to nosebleeds and twisted ankles. Handle them like a pro and help your child stay calm in the process.

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Joes buddy line- mental health services for young people 

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Joes buddy line- mental health services for young people 

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A large board designed as an illuminated Lightbox that can be placed on an internal wall to help open-up mental health and wellbeing conversations, and provide some information about these important issues. The Buddy Board is now copyrighted.

A Presentation and Discussion about mental health by Celia Lyons, the mother of Joe Lyons, as created and produced by a Qualified Mental Health Practitioner.

Workshops can be offered on specific mental health and wellbeing issues for all within an Education Institution Family, including Teachers, Students, Governors and Parents/Guardians. Look at our initiatives in detail in the link above to find out more about the workshops we offer.

See more initiatives here >

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A large board designed as an illuminated Lightbox that can be placed on an internal wall to help open-up mental health and wellbeing conversations, and provide some information about these important issues. The Buddy Board is now copyrighted.

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Hertfordshire County Council Services for Young People

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Give information about crime 100% anonymously | Fearless | Crimestoppers

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Fearless has launched a new campaign to keep teenagers across Scotland safe this autumn. Focusing on Halloween and Bonfire Night, the charity's pro-social behaviour messaging provides teens with information on how to stay safe and look out for their local community.

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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

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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

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Find children's social services in Hertfordshire including child protection, fostering and adoption, young care leavers and the Safeguarding Children Board.

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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.

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Young Carers service at Carers in Hertfordshire

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Find out how Carers in Hertfordshire can support unpaid carers in the county who are 18 or under.

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Get help now.

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When we asked children and young people, who use our services, who they felt may help, they suggested the contacts below.
Young Minds
If you are a young person experiencing a mental health crisis, you can text the Young Minds Crisis Messenger for free, 24/7 support, for more information click here.

Useful and young person friendly information available at www.youngminds.org.uk
Samaritans For more information visit the Samaritans webpage here.
Email them at jo@samaritans.org or Call them on 116 123 for free.

You can talk to Samaritans for as long as you need to.

You don't have to tell us your name or any personal details if you don't want to.

When you contact us we can't see your telephone number and your email address is removed before it reaches a volunteer.
Youth Connexions
For a variety of practical information and advice and support visit www.ychertfordshire.org
ChildLine For more information visit the Childline website here.
Contact them online or call them on 0800 1111 for free.

We're a safe place for you to talk.

Calls are not recorded and our number won't show up on any phone bills.
Healthy Young Minds in Herts
Visit healthyyoungmindsinherts.org.uk for information on emotional health and wellbeing support.
Hub of Hope
Visit www.hubofhope.co.uk and put in your postcode or postcodes nearby to find local support.
Mind in Mid Herts
Local support and information available at www.mindinmidherts.org.uk
Headspace
A simple meditation app, with a free trial, to help you feel calmer. Available to download on the App store.
Headmeds
Young person friendly information on medication available at www.headmeds.org.uk
Get Self Help
Visit www.getselfhelp.co.uk to download free worksheets which may help you.

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When we asked children and young people, who use our services, who they felt may help, they suggested the contacts below. Young Minds If you are a young person experiencing a mental health crisis, you can text the Young Minds Crisis Messenger for free, 24/7 support, for more information click here.

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An introduction to Future Academies

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This document is also available as a PDF here

Social networking is hugely popular. Many young people are sophisticated in the way they use social media apps and websites, tailoring their communication for different audiences, and accessing them from a range of devices including smartphones, tablets, and games consoles.

But social media, like all forms of public communication, comes with some risks. Not all of these risks turn into actual problems; and if children never face any risks, they never learn how to deal with them. By helping your child understand what the risks are, you can play a big part in preventing them from turning into problems.

1. Understand the risks children may need to deal with:

What they might see or do:

Seeing or sharing of violent, sexual and pornographic content

Inaccurate or false information and extreme views

Promotion of harmful behaviours including self-harm, anorexia and suicide

Over-sharing of personal information

Actively or unintentionally getting involved in bullying or hurtful behaviour

Who they might meet:

How this could affect them:

2. Practical tips to help minimise the risks your child might face

It's good practice for apps and websites to have safety advice and well-designed safety features which can make a real difference to how safe your child will be when using them. Work through safety and privacy features on the apps that your child is using, or might use. Make sure they understand the point of these and how to use them.

Don't be put off by believing your child knows more than you: the tools are actually quite easy to manage.

3. Keep talking and stay involved

In a mobile age, children can't be completely protected, even by the best privacy controls; another child may use different settings. So it's important to keep talking to your child about the implications of social media. Getting a sense of what they think is a useful place to start; you may be surprised by how much thought they may have given to the issues.

Encourage your child to think carefully about the way they, and others behave online, and how they might deal with difficult situations.

People may not always be who they say they are online: how can this create problems?

Why is it unwise to meet anyone in the real world that you've only ever met online?

Even if you think your messages are private, remember that words and images can always be captured and broadcast.

People present themselves differently online - do they really look like that? Are they always having that good a time?

Be aware that screens, and especially being anonymous, can lead people to say things they wouldn't say to someone's face.

What does being a good friend and a likeable person online look like?

There can be pressure to be part of a particular group online or to be seen to be following a certain set of ideas

How can you take a step back and make your own decisions?

4. For more information:

You can find out more about how children use social media, the apps they use, the risks they face, how to use privacy settings, and advice and tips about how to talk to your children at:

5. To make a report

Concerned about online grooming or sexual behaviour online?

Contact CEOP: www.ceop.police.uk

If you stumble across criminal sexual or obscene content on the internet you should report it to the Internet Watch Foundation: www.iwf.org.uk

This document is also available as a PDF here

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Child Safety Online: A practical guide for parents and carers whose children are using social media

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This document is also available as a PDF here Social networking is hugely popular. Many young people are sophisticated in the way they use social media apps and websites, tailoring their communication for different audiences, and accessing them from a range of devices including smartphones, tablets, and games consoles.

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What are the 9 protected characteristics that we all need to be aware of? 

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What are the 9 protected characteristics that we all need to be aware of? 

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Can you name the 4 fundamental British Values? 

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Can you name the 4 fundamental British Values? 

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Skip to content ↓

Welcome toThe Grange Academy

Libertas per cultum

Join us for an impactful evening with @HertsPolice & Alison Cope, a passionate anti-violence advocate. Hear heartfelt stories, learn how we can elevate awareness to prevent violence in our communities. Get involved, make a difference! ️✨ Don't miss out! https://t.co/sQzBYl3xtZ

A Youth Violent Crime Awareness evening is being held at the @thegrangebushey . This event is next week and is open for all parents who wish to attend. With @HertsPolice and @ali_cope who will be leading the event raising awareness in order to prevent violence in our communities. https://t.co/ifXbexlMel

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Skip to content ↓ Libertas per cultum Join us for an impactful evening with @HertsPolice & Alison Cope, a passionate anti-violence advocate. Hear heartfelt stories, learn how we can elevate awareness to prevent violence in our communities. Get involved, make a difference! ️✨ Don't miss out!

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Achievement Awards

An annual event celebrating the achievements of young people from alternative education provisions

In association with The Joshua Ribera Foundation CIC

The talk Alison gave was great and I could relate to it. I enjoyed everything and it made me think twice about knives.

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Alison Cope - Anti Violence Campaigner Alison Cope is the mother of Joshua Ribera who was murdered in 2013. Since Joshua's death Alison has worked tirelessly to share her son's life and death story to educate young people about the real consequences of youth violence.

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Letter sent to Parents regarding PSHE and RSE 2024

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Letter sent to Parents regarding PSHE and RSE 2024

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Annual week of advocacy to raise awareness, educate and take action to stop knife crime

Knife crime is a societal problem, so it is everyone's responsibility.

We host Knife Crime Awareness Week to highlight the complexity of the problem, the devastation that it causes to families and communities and ultimately that knife crime is preventable.

Through raising awareness, educating others and taking action, we can all be the change that is needed.

Join us in our quest to #StopKnifeCrime

Knife Crime Awareness week is an annual event which takes place in May

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Knife Crime Awareness Week | The Ben Kinsella Trust

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Knife Crime Awareness Week is an annual week of advocacy in May to raise awareness, educate and take action to stop knife crime

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Advice for parents

If your family in your home country support the practice of FGM, or if there is pressure from the wider community to arrange FGM then you should think very carefully about taking your daughter to visit.

You should speak to your family before travelling to explain that you do not want to arrange FGM for your daughter and that FGM is against the law in the UK, so you could be prosecuted if anything happens to your daughter. Remember that FGM is also illegal in many other countries including Benin, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire, Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sudan, South Africa, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, and Zambia.

If you are still concerned in any way after speaking to your family then it may be better not to take your daughter abroad. If you are unsure then workers in services such as health and social work can advise you and support you in keeping your daughter safe.

If you are travelling abroad with your daughter take a copy of the Scottish Government leaflet: FGM - A statement opposing Female Genital Mutilation (download below)

This might be of help if your family or community put pressure on you to arrange FGM for your daughter. Show the leaflet to your family and keep it with you at all times.

If you are abroad and require help or advice call the Foreign and Commonwealth Office on +44 (0)20 7008 1500 or contact the British High Commission or Embassy in the country you are visiting.

You could also contact local organisations working on FGM in the country you are visiting and they may be able to help protect your child from FGM (download below).

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If your family in your home country support the practice of FGM, or if there is pressure from the wider community to arrange FGM then you should think very carefully about taking your daughter to...

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Female genital mutilation is illegal. We've got advice to help you keep children and young people safe.