1. Social media

2. The Law regarding Children & Social media

In the UK, laws surrounding children and the internet, including social media, are designed to protect young people from exploitation and harm. 

Below is an outline of key areas:

Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) Images:

Under the Protection of Children Act 1978 and the Criminal Justice Act 1988, it is illegal to create, distribute, possess, or access child pornography. The definition includes any visual depiction of a person under 18 engaged in sexual activities. 

If you become aware of any child who reveals they have sent or received images of themselves, or another child, you must report this as a safeguarding concern. 

Do NOT take a copy of those images, as you will then become liable for the possession of child pornography. 

Age of Consent:

The age of consent in the UK is 16 years. For specific groups, however, such as those involving individuals in positions of trust, the age can be higher.

As a mentor for Medics & Me, there is no age in which it is appropriate to form a relationship with a mentee, regardless of whether the mentee is still involved in mentoring or not. 

If you become aware that your mentee is under the age of consent, and engaging in sexual activity, you should report this to safeguarding. 

Social Media Regulations:

Age Restrictions: Most social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, TikTok) require users to be at least 13 years old. This aligns with the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) principles.

Dating Apps: Generally, dating apps require users to be 18 or older due to the nature of their content and interactions.

While Medics & Me students are likely to be over the age of 13; they should not be accessing dating sites or engaging in online sexualised communication. 

If your mentee disclosures unusual use of social media, and you are concerned that they may be experiencing grooming, online abuse or radicalisation, you should report this as a safeguarding concern.

NSPCC Learning- Children and the Law

Government Legislation- Protection of Children Act 1978

Government Legislation- Criminal Justice Act 1988

3. Best Practices for Online Safety When Working with Vulnerable People

As a volunteer working with vulnerable young people, it’s crucial to maintain your own safety online. Follow the recommendations below to ensure your social media is safe. Not only is this related to your work with Medics & Me, but also relevant to your future as a Doctor.

Social Media Privacy Settings:

• Set your social media accounts to private to limit access to your profile and posts.
  
• Only accept friend requests from people you know personally. Do not accept requests from mentees or their parents.
  
• Avoid sharing personal details such as your address, phone number, or sensitive information in your profile or posts.

Use Professional Communication Channels:

• Use designated communication platforms (e.g. Medics & Me email) for communication with your mentee.
• Do not use private emails or phone communication with mentees or their parents

Be Mindful of Online Behaviour:

• Keep interactions with young people professional and focused on your role. 
• Avoid sharing personal anecdotes or engaging in discussions that could blur boundaries; be open with your mentees about medical school and your journey to be a Doctor, but avoid chatting about getting drunk at freshers!

Report and Block Inappropriate Behaviour:

• Promptly report any concerning interactions; if your mentee tries to contact you over social media. Do not engage, and alert the safeguarding team.

NSPCC Learning- Keeping Children Safe Online

NSPCC Learning- Social Media, online communities and safeguarding

Social media, online communities and safeguarding