Wrexham Assembly Member Lesley Griffiths is backing a nationwide campaign aimed at raising awareness amongst young people about the dangers of ‘sexting’.
Charitable organisations ChildLine and the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) are working together following the publication of a survey which found that young people are often taking significant risks by making and sending sexual messages or images of themselves on the internet or through mobile phones.
The partnership with the IWF means ChildLine can help young people verify their age before logging a complaint to get an image removed swiftly and efficiently.
ChildLine has also developed a free app which is designed to help young people who are under pressure to take part in sexting. ‘Zipit’ offers users the chance to share images and messages with their friends in a controlled environment as well as offering tips, information and guidance as to how to stay safe and in control if they are threatened.
The NSPCC is complementing the ChildLine initiative by providing advice to parents and carers on what they can do to advise and support their children in relation to sexting. Many children and young people are more confident about internet and mobile technology than their parents so the advice posted on the NSPCC website will enable parents to take action.
Commenting, Lesley Griffiths AM said:
“Many adults will be unaware of the issues surrounding ‘sexting’ but for many young people it has become the norm and part of growing up.”
“Smartphones and ever-advancing technology have revolutionised relationships in the 21st century and to the younger generation, sending pictures and inappropriate content via text messages or the internet has become normal teenage behaviour.”
“Most young people see it as a harmless activity and are reluctant to talk to adults about it but there are significant risks as it could lead to blackmail, bullying and emotional distress.”
“This campaign highlights to both adults and teenagers the dangers of sexting and urges people to remain vigilant and to be aware of the risks involved.”
