The BBC and Google have joined forces with internet service providers on an initiative to promote online safety for children.
The two organisations have become the first official partners of Internet Matters, which was set up two years ago by BT, Sky, Virgin and TalkTalk to teach parents and children about issues such as cyberbullying and protecting privacy. Google and the BBC already run their own internet safety programmes, but Internet Matters claims their support recognises the importance of a collaborative approach.
Both organisations are already working with Internet Matters. The BBC is collaborating on an online guide called iWonder and will promote its work at its events. Google will work with the organisation on its visits to UK schools under its pilot Internet Legends programme, which aims to teach 10,000 children about issues such as image sharing and privacy, and could be rolled out further. Other projects are expected to be developed under what Internet Matters has described as a long-term partnership.
The UK minister for internet safety and security, Joanna Shields, who is also a former Facebook and Google executive, said the move would “ensure that young people can leverage all the internet has to offer to learn, grow and achieve their potential”.
Alice Webb, director of BBC Children, said: “Keeping our young audience safe online has long been a priority for the BBC and we have an important role to play in helping to make sure messages about staying safe online hit home.”
Eileen Naughton, Google UK and Ireland managing director, said: “Google believes deeply in technology’s ability to unlock creativity, and we work hard to ensure that parents and children have the tools and knowledge they need to make smart and responsible choices online. We’re excited to be joining Internet Matters, and will continue to work with organisations across the child safety community to ensure that more families are able to safely open up the creativity, learning and fun the internet has to offer.”
