Cyberbullying, misinformation and inadequate regulation of apps
are just some of the issues youngsters say they are most worried
about when it comes to online safety, according to a group of
young people from Wales.
To mark Safer Internet Day, the Welsh Government, in
collaboration with the WRU, will host school groups from across
Wales at an event in Cardiff’s
Principality Stadium. Activities and sessions will provide a
platform for young people to share their views and raise concerns
about the ever-changing online world.
As part of the event, and with the Six Nations in full flow,
pupils will meet WRU staff to discuss the work they do to keep
players and their families safe online and to share their own
experiences.
They will have the opportunity to hear from E-Sports Wales and
YGAM, a charity to prevent harm from gaming and online gambling,
about the importance of responsible and respectful behaviour
online, following the recent launch of the Welsh Esports league.
The Minister for Education and Welsh Language, , said:
“The Welsh Government is a proud supporter of Safer Internet Day.
Online safety is an evolving issue, and it is vital we continue
to support this important conversation.
“One of the best ways to safeguard our young people is through
awareness, education and listening to young people. Today’s event
is enabling young people to speak up about what is most important
to them”.
In addition to today’s event, there are activities taking
place throughout the week to promote the responsible and positive
use of digital technology both inside school and out.
Online Safety resources available on Hwb include:
- A downloadable school assembly, designed to kickstart
conversations around online safety
-
App Guides for parents and
carers – risks, age-ratings and how to enable parental
controls – for some of the most popular apps from Roblox
to TikTok
- Bilingual education packs for primary and secondary schools
- Webinars in partnership with Estyn, Childnet, SWGfL and Adobe
for teachers and practitioners.
Notes to editors
The Safer Internet Day event is taking place at the Principality
Stadium in Cardiff on Tuesday 6 February. Pupils, teachers and
WRU staff will be available for interview.
In 2023, the Welsh Government established the Keeping Safe Online Youth
Group, comprising young people aged between 13 and 17 from
across Wales. The group provides valuable insight into the lived
experience of children and young people online today and informs
the Digital Resilience in Education work programme.
