Digital safety and online support
Being online is an important part of everyday life. Whether you're using social media, online banking, shopping online, applying for jobs or keeping in touch with friends, it's important to know how to stay safe and protect yourself.
Online safety
There are simple steps you can take to keep yourself safe online:
- use strong passwords and keep them private
- be careful about sharing personal information online
- check privacy settings on social media accounts
- think carefully before clicking on links or downloading files
Talk to someone you trust if something online makes you feel uncomfortable or worried.
Find out more about staying safe online:
Scam awareness
Scammers can contact people by text, email, phone calls, social media or fake websites. They often pretend to be from trusted organisations such as banks, delivery companies or government services.
Remember:
- never share passwords, PIN numbers or bank details
- be wary of messages asking you to act urgently
- check websites and email addresses carefully
If something doesn't feel right, stop and ask for advice.
Useful information:
Online exploitation awareness
Unfortunately, some people use the internet and social media to manipulate, control or exploit others. This may include criminal exploitation, financial exploitation, grooming or coercion.
Warning signs can include:
- someone offering money, gifts or help in return for favours
- being pressured to keep secrets
- someone trying to isolate you from friends, family or professionals
- feeling worried, threatened or controlled by someone online
If you are concerned about yourself or someone else, speak to your Personal Adviser (PA) as soon as possible.
Support from SPACE
Our Support and Protect Against Child Exploitation (SPACE) team work with young people and professionals to help identify risks and provide advice about exploitation, including concerns that arise online.
If you are worried about online exploitation, scams or unsafe online relationships, your Personal Adviser can seek advice and support from the SPACE team on your behalf.
Domestic abuse support
Everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and supported in their relationships. Domestic abuse can happen to anyone and can include:
- controlling or coercive behaviour
- emotional or psychological abuse
- physical abuse
- financial abuse
- threats, intimidation or harassment
- abuse through technology or social media
If you are worried about your relationship, or someone is making you feel unsafe, you do not have to deal with it alone.
Support available
Westmorland and Furness Council has a Specialist Domestic Abuse Team who can provide advice, guidance and support to care experienced young adults.
If your Personal Adviser (PA) is concerned that you may be experiencing domestic abuse or are in a high-risk relationship, they can speak with the Specialist Domestic Abuse Team to discuss the support available.
A Specialist Domestic Abuse Worker and your PA can arrange to meet with you, usually in a place where you feel comfortable and safe, to talk through any concerns and explore what support may help.
Any ongoing support will always be discussed with you and will normally depend on your agreement and consent.
How to access support
If you are worried about your relationship, speak to your Personal Adviser.
Contact emergency services on 999 if you are in immediate danger.
Access local domestic abuse support through:
Women's Community Matters (Barrow and Kendal)
email: reception@womenscommunitymatters.org
Springfield Domestic Abuse Support (Kendal or South Lakes)
email: help@springfieldsupport.org
Remember
You have the right to feel safe, respected and in control of your own life and relationships. If something does not feel right, speak to your Personal Adviser who can help you access the right support.