THE NSPCC is many things to many people. For some, it can be a way to overcome abuse or neglect, for others it’s a way to volunteer, fundraise and help children.

But the NSPCC is something else too. We are a resource for families, parents, carers, teachers, community groups and anyone who wants to find out more about how they can keep children safer. One of the ways we do that is through our free online safety workshops, which can be booked through the NSPCC website. These give parents and carers resources to help keep children safe online, and have become increasingly in demand in recent years as children spend more time online.

You might already know how difficult it can be to keep up with the latest internet trends your child is following. The internet is an integral part of their home and school lives, to keep themselves entertained, socialise with friends and do their homework.But for parents, it can feel like children are signing up to new games, social media sites or apps every week, and by the time you catch up with the latest thing they’re using, they’re moving onto the next ‘cool’ app.

We know how important the internet is to children, but our practitioners and our Childline service sadly hear horrific stories from young people who have lived through negative experiences online. Some have been bullied on social media, others targeted on gaming platforms. Young people have also been contacted online by strangers which has ultimately led to them suffering some form of sexual abuse. Online safety is crucial, and while we’re always there to help children and young people deal with their experiences, parents and carers have an important role too. By gaining just a little knowledge about the online world and the challenges and dangers young people face every time they log on, parents can gain the confidence to speak to their children about it. By speaking often and openly with them about how they spend their time online, showing an interest in apps, games and sites they use, and learning together how to report, block or use other safety features, you can help keep your children safer online.

You’ll also reassure your child that you’ll be there to support them if they ever have a negative experience online. Tell them you won’t judge them, you’ll help them however you can, and give them the confidence to speak to you about anything that worries them.

So far, 96per cent of parents who have joined our free 30-minute online safety course say they would recommend it to another parent. The sessions are also open to individuals, schools or community groups and are delivered virtually.

* Visit childline.org.uk and 0800 1111.

* Debra Radford is NSPCC Assistant Director Yorkshire and the North East.