Advice for Parents/Carers

The following information shares a few key safeguarding reminders and aspects of wellbeing advice to help protect and support young people.

Please remember, if you have an urgent safeguarding concern about a student at Sexey’s or another young person, please contact one of the agencies below:-

Somerset Direct on 0300 123 2224
Police on 101
NSPCC on 0808 800 5000

Summer Holiday Safety Tips

The summer break is a time for fun and freedom—but it’s also a time when young people may face increased risks. Here are some simple tips to help keep them safe:

  • Online Safety
    Encourage your child to use privacy settings, avoid chatting with strangers, and speak to a trusted adult if anything online causes concern.
    Visit www.ceopeducation.co.uk/11_18/ for useful advice.
  • Meeting Friends
    Remind your child to keep you informed about where they are going, who they’re with, and when they’ll be home.
  • Water Safety
    Whether visiting rivers, lakes, or the beach, water can be dangerous. The RNLI offers clear guidance to stay safe:
    www.rnli.org/safety

Social Media & Online Risks

As social media use increases over the holidays, it’s important to stay alert to potential issues such as:

  • Anonymous apps that allow harmful messages (e.g. NGL, Yik Yak)
  • Risky viral challenges that promote dangerous behaviour
  • Online grooming, where strangers build trust to exploit young people
  • Apps like Snapchat that allow disappearing messages and location sharing, which can be misused by others

What can parents do?

  • Have open, honest conversations about online activity
  • Set healthy screen limits
  • Encourage children to speak up if something feels wrong
  • Use parental control apps or phone tracking tools to help monitor your child’s whereabouts and phone use
  • More help at: www.nspcc.org.uk/online-safety

Criminal Exploitation & Vaping Dangers

Unfortunately, some young people are being targeted—often online or through peers—to take part in criminal exploitation, such as transporting drugs (county lines). This can be a particular risk during the summer holidays when young people may be out and about more.

Warning signs:

  • Unexplained money or new possessions
  • Going missing or staying out late
  • Changes in mood or secrecy
  • Mixing with unfamiliar older individuals

Vaping is also a growing concern. Some products are unregulated and contain high nicotine levels or harmful substances like cannabis oils. There can be links between buying and selling links and other forms of criminal exploitation

Find out more at:

https://www.barnardos.org.uk/get-support/support-for-parents-and-carers/child-abuse-and-harm/criminal-exploitation-children

Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health

The summer holidays can be emotionally challenging for some young people. If you’re concerned about your child’s mood, anxiety, or behaviour, help is available.

Here are some great sources of advice:

Worried About a Child?

If you’re concerned about the safety or wellbeing of a child you should contact: