Keeping safe online youth group

Purpose of the group

The DRiE team manage the Keeping safe online area of Hwb which provides resources, guidance, and training about keeping safe online for children and young people as well as educators and families. By hearing directly from young people, DRiE are able to have a greater understanding about what the issues are and how we can raise awareness of these and ultimately better support children and young people in being safer online.

Last year, the group met approximately six times during the school year - a mixture of online and in-person sessions. During the sessions, members discuss a wide range of topics: one session might focus on the benefits and pitfalls of social media and another on the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies on our lives.

As well as sharing experiences, there are other benefits to getting involved, which include the opportunity to:

• co-produce projects with the DRiE team and influence Welsh Government policy and practice
• participate in global campaigns including Safer Internet Day
• develop knowledge of the latest online safety developments and leadership and communication skills
• meet new friends and attend residentials

The Welsh Government is forming its Keeping Safe Online Youth Group for 2024 to 2025

We are looking for children and young people from across Wales aged 13 to 16 who are passionate about digital issues and would like the opportunity to become a Keeping Safe Online Youth Group member – working alongside other young people to advise and inform our work.

We are looking for young people who can commit to at least two 90-minute virtual meetings and one all day in-person event between September 2024 and March 2025. There may also be some additional reading to do ahead of meetings and short video creation after meetings.

We are seeking teens who can work constructively with other young people from a range of different backgrounds and regions. We are reaching out to those who have a willingness and appetite to learn and share and dig deep into a topic or issue that affects teens online.

To apply, complete the short Keeping Safe Online Youth Group application form.

The Keeping Safe Online Youth Group is being led by Praesidio Safeguarding on behalf of the Welsh Government. Applications must be received by 5pm on Friday 2 August 2024. You will need parent or carer permission to apply.

Find out more about our work with the youth group