Dangers of Social Media Highlighted In Hard Hitting Drama

AS part of Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership’s (PCSP) internet safety initiative, in conjunction with the PSNI, a play delivered by Saltmine Trust Theatre was performed at Down High School to highlight  issues and dangers that users may encounter when using social media and the Internet.

[caption id="attachment_43553" align="alignleft" width="390"]At the Down High School before the performance were pupils Laura Cranston, John McCoubrey and Emma Leahy, PCSP Chairman Councillor Willie Clarke, Sergeant Ian Young, C District Service delivery, and members of the Saltmine Trust cast. At the Down High School before the performance were pupils Laura Cranston, John McCoubrey and Emma Leahy, PCSP Chairman Councillor Willie Clarke, Sergeant Ian Young, C District Service delivery, and members of the Saltmine Trust cast.[/caption]

The need to educate young people on the effects of misusing the Internet has never been more urgent.

Speaking at the event, PCSP Chairman, Councillor Willie Clarke said: “The Internet has become an integral part of young people’s lives but they are particularly vulnerable on social media sites and we have a responsibility to highlight the dangers associated. We need to educate our young people to ensure they remain safe whilst online.

“This hard hitting drama will increase awareness of dangers surrounding the Internet and show them how to safeguard themselves from cyber bullying, sexting, on-line grooming and other types of abuse.”

There has been a number of Internet-related suicides and a significant rise in the number of reported crimes involving social media during 2013,

For further information on Internet safety contact the PCSP Policing at Down District Council on 028 4461 0800.

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