Childnet Celebrates 20 Years of Making the Internet Safer for Children

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the importance of ensuring online safety for children has never been more critical. Childnet, a pioneering organization dedicated to this cause, is celebrating a significant milestone: 20 years of working tirelessly to make the internet a safer and more beneficial place for young people.

A Mission of Empowerment and Collaboration

Since its inception in 1995, Childnet has been driven by a clear mission: to work in partnership with global stakeholders to empower children and young people to navigate the internet safely. This mission is anchored in four key values: empowerment, collaboration, giving young people a voice, and international impact.

Empowering the Next Generation

Childnet's approach is centered on empowering children, young people, and their supporters to harness the benefits of technology while mitigating its risks. Mhairi Hill, a teacher at Ballyclare High School, praised Childnet's practitioners for their supportive and collaborative approach, noting that they have "joined with us, as educators, to both support us and to celebrate our achievements."

Working Together for Positive Change

Collaboration is at the heart of Childnet's strategy. The organization works with various sectors, including tech giants like Facebook, to ensure that safety is integrated into the design of policies and products. Simon Milner, Policy Director EMEA at Facebook, highlighted Childnet's crucial role in Facebook's Safety Advisory Board, praising their contributions to education and awareness campaigns across the UK.

Giving Young People a Voice

Childnet is committed to ensuring that children and young people have a say in shaping a better internet. Jude, a finalist and later a judge in Childnet's Film Competition, credited the organization with boosting her confidence and teaching her about online safety. Her experience is a testament to Childnet's success in engaging and empowering young people.

Global Impact

Childnet's influence extends beyond the UK, with international partnerships that have a significant impact on education, policy, and youth participation globally. In Australia, for example, Childnet has collaborated with the Office of the Children’s eSafety Commissioner to adapt and create resources that have had a real impact on young people. Rosalie O’Neale from the Office of the Children’s eSafety Commissioner praised the long-standing partnership and the shared commitment to good practice.

Celebrating Achievements

Over the past two decades, Childnet has achieved numerous milestones. Their education team has conducted inspiring and informative sessions for young people, parents, and teachers. Between 2010 and 2015, they engaged with thousands of individuals through these sessions. Additionally, Childnet has been a key coordinator of Safer Internet Day in the UK, working alongside the South West Grid for Learning and the Internet Watch Foundation to encourage millions to contribute to a safer online environment.

A Valuable Contribution

The work of Childnet has been recognized and valued by high-profile figures, including Nicky Morgan, the former Secretary of State for Education and Minister for Women and Equalities. She emphasized the importance of ensuring children's online safety, highlighting Childnet's valuable contributions over the last 20 years.

As Childnet looks to the future, its CEO, Will Gardner, reflects on the organization's journey and reiterates its commitment to continuing this vital work. For expats in Spain and globally, the efforts of Childnet serve as a reminder of the importance of online safety and the need for collaborative, empowering approaches to ensure that the internet remains a positive and safe space for all children.