Staying safe online
Being online is a big part of everyday life. You might use the internet to keep in touch with people, apply for jobs, manage your money, look for housing, learn new skills or access support.
Most online experiences are positive, but there are also risks. Scams, fake profiles, bullying, unwanted contact and pressure from others can happen online just as they can in the real world.
Knowing how to spot these risks can help you stay safe, protect your information and make informed choices online.
Quick tips
- keep personal information private
- use strong passwords
- check your privacy settings
- be careful when talking to people you don't know
- think before sharing photos or information
- trust your instincts if something feels wrong
- block and report people who make you feel unsafe
Worried about being scammed?
Scammers can contact you through texts, emails, social media or fake websites. They may try to get your money, passwords or personal information.
Action Fraud can support you.
Has someone online made you feel uncomfortable?
Sometimes people build trust online to manipulate, pressure or take advantage of others.
Victim support can support you.
Want more control over your social media?
Learn how to manage your privacy settings and decide who can see your information.
Internet Matters can support you.
Seen something harmful online?
This could include hate, extremist content or people trying to influence others in unhealthy ways.
Go to Act Early for help.
Using dating apps or sharing photos?
Get advice on staying safe when meeting new people online and sharing images.
Brook can help.
Applying for jobs, benefits or housing?
Make sure your personal information stays safe when using online services.
The National Cyber Security Centre will be able to help.
Need someone to talk to?
Speak to your personal adviser, leaving care worker or another trusted adult.
You can also contact:
The Mix (under 25s)
Childline (under 19s)
Remember: if something online doesn't feel right, talk to someone. You don't have to figure it out on your own.
Domestic abuse
Domestic abuse usually happens between people who are in a relationship, have been in a relationship, are family members, or have a child together.
Some examples may also happen in friendships or other close relationships because abusive behaviour can look similar.
What is domestic abuse?
Domestic abuse is when someone you are close to hurts you, scares you, controls you, or makes you do things you do not want to do.
This could be a partner, ex-partner, family member, or someone you have a child with.
Domestic abuse can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, sexuality, or background.
Abuse is never okay and it is never your fault.
If it hurts, scares, controls or isolates you, it is not a healthy relationship.
Abuse is a choice made by the person causing harm.
Visit Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Partnership for more details
You deserve to feel safe
If someone is hurting you, controlling you, making you feel scared, or stopping you from being yourself, support is available.
- you are not alone
- you will be listened to
- you will not be judged
Need support now?
If you are in immediate danger, call 999.
If you cannot speak, call 999 and press 55 when prompted. This tells the operator you need help but cannot speak.
You can also speak to:
- your PA
- a trusted adult
How can my PA help?
If you are worried about a relationship, your PA can:
- listen without judging you
- help you understand your options
- help you stay safe
- support you to access specialist services
- support you if you want to report what is happening to the police or another service
You do not have to deal with this on your own. If you are a Lincolnshire care leaver, your PA can help you get the right support at a pace that feels right for you.
Where can I get help?
Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Specialist Service (LDASS) - Support for people living in Lincolnshire.
National Domestic Abuse Helpline - For women (including trans women)
0808 2000 247
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Men's Advice Line
For men experiencing domestic abuse
0808 801 0327
Email: info@mensadviceline.org.uk
National LGBT+ domestic abuse helpline - For LGBTQ+ people
0800 999 5428
Email: help@galop.org.uk
Karma Nirvana
For people affected by honour-based abuse or forced marriage
0800 5999 247
Email: support@karmanirvana.org.uk
Respect
If you are worried about your own behaviour towards someone else and want support to change it
Quick relationship check
Ask yourself:
- do I feel safe with this person?
- can I say no without being scared?
- do they respect my choices?
- can I spend time with friends and family?
- do they encourage me or put me down?
- am I able to make my own decisions?
If some of your answers are no, it may help to talk to your PA or another trusted adult. You deserve to feel safe, respected, and in control of your own life.
Learn More