Kooth

All students at RGS have had the opportunity to find out about the support that Kooth can give. There are online counsellors available from 12-10pm during the week and from 6-10pm on Saturday and Sunday. The service is completely anonymous  and while you are encouraged to create a log in you are not required to enter your name or any contact details should you not want to. We have had fantastic feedback about Kooth from students who have sought advice and guidance onb a range of issues around their wellbeing.

Off the Record

Off the Record are a fantastic charity operating in Bristol  focusing on personal well being including anxiety, self harm and anger management. The charity offer drop in sessions, workshops and online resources. Their website is quite basic but if you scroll down to the lower icons on each page there is a wide range of guidance.

Our online reputation.

Sometimes we do not consider the impact of our actions in the virtual world and there can be serious consequences. However when we make mistakes in the virtual world the impact can be more widespread. Take a moment to review this guide here and perhaps spend some shared time with your child supporting each other to ensure your settings for online activity are appropriate and fit for purpose. Click the link here. This resource is also really good for information on a range of online issues.

Getting to grips with parental controls.

A number of parents have found the internet matters website as a good resource for a range of device and internet safety information.

Momo Challenge

As you may be aware from the media, there is a new social media challenge targeting children and young adults called the ‘Momo Challenge,’ which has created concern throughout the country due to its disturbing nature. We are writing to make you aware of this challenge, provide you with information about it, and urge you to monitor your children’s use of social media and the Internet. The ‘Momo Challenge’ is a game found on Facebook and the app WhatsApp, and features a frightening character who asks its viewers to perform various tasks and provide photos as proof. The ‘Momo’ threatens those who do not perform the tasks. The ‘Momo’ character is now hacking into YouTube and YouTube Kids, popping up on screens whilst children are watching videos. If you would like to learn more about the ‘Momo Challenge’ please visit the links below. Please be warned that some of the images and stories may be disturbing.

https://nationalonlinesafety.com/resources/platform-guides/momo-online-safety-guide-for-parents

The link below is a useful website on ways that you can get involved in conversations with your child about what they are doing and who they are talking to online.

https://www.internetmatters.org/cyberbullying2-2/protect-your-child/

Drugs Awareness

If you are concerned about drugs and substance abuse the Talk to Frank website is a respected source of no nonsense clearly presented information with regard to drugs and substance abuse. The Bristol Drugs Project is a locally based source of information and guidance.

Remember that if you have concerns about your own safety or the safety of others due to drugs or substance abuse you can raise your concerns using the RGS anonymous reporting tool. Whisper.