Prevent / Protect
The best way to prevent your child from being abused is to educate them about what is expected in a healthy relationship and the dangers of exploitation.
How can you help?
It's important to remember it's never the young persons fault; the fault lies with the abuser.
Healthy relationships should include:
Respect for each others wishes
Good communication
Making sure you don't force the other person into a situation they don't want to be in
Making sure you have time for yourself, family and friends as well as your partner
They should not include:
Checki
ng up on your partner
Threats to end your relationship if one person doesn't get their way
Violence
Controlling the access to money
Belittling your partner, making them feel that they are not good enough.
Online safety
Sometimes grooming and sexual exploitation takes place online. Make sure you know how to keep your children safe.
Information to help you can be found by clicking the below links:
ThinkUKnow – advice for parents about online safety.
NSPCC - Be Share Aware your guide to keeping your child safe on social networks, apps and games.
NSPCC - Your guide to the social networks your children use.
If your child shares something online that they wish they hadn’t, they shouldn’t feel guilty. Help is available from ChildLine who can also help you and your child get the image removed