As a neurodiverse charity supporting children, young people and families, online safety is always a priority for us. The internet can be an amazing space for learning, interests, community and creativity — but it can also present risks, especially for autistic, ADHD, anxious or otherwise vulnerable young people.

We have recently received a safeguarding alert from NHS/Government services regarding online activity that may place children and young people at risk. Below is a summary to help parents, carers and professionals stay informed and proactive.

⚠️ Safeguarding Alert – Summary

A national safeguarding alert has been shared relating to concerning online behaviour involving two young adults, who may be encouraging self-harm among vulnerable children and young people connected to mental health services.

Key points to be aware of:

• One individual is using TikTok (approx. 3,000 followers) to engage with vulnerable young people.
• There are known links to young people in mental health wards in Essex.
• Essex Police, local authorities and NHS partners are actively monitoring the situation.
• A multi-agency safeguarding meeting has already taken place.

Although this activity is currently linked to a specific geographical area, online content spreads quickly — so all parents, carers and professionals should remain vigilant.

🌐 Supporting Neurodiverse Children & Young People Online

Many autistic and neurodiverse young people:

✔ find online communities easier than face-to-face interactions
✔ can be more trusting of others’ intentions
✔ may struggle to identify manipulation or unsafe behaviour
✔ can feel pressure to respond quickly or please others
✔ may be highly influenced by online content due to hyperfocus or emotional vulnerability

This means they can be more at risk of exploitation, grooming or harmful online challenges.

👨‍👩‍👧 Guidance for Parents & Carers

Here are some practical steps to help keep children and young people safe:

1. Talk openly about online activity

Create a safe space for them to share what they’re watching, who they follow, and what interests them.

2. Keep an eye on their platforms

Particularly TikTok, Instagram, Discord, private messaging apps, gaming chats and YouTube shorts.

3. Encourage them to check in with you

Teach them to pause and ask for help if something feels worrying, confusing or upsetting.

4. Remind them that not everyone online is who they say they are

Explain in simple, neurodiversity‑friendly language.

5. Review privacy settings together

Make accounts private, turn off geolocation, and restrict who can comment/message.

6. Encourage healthy routines

Help create a balance between online and real‑world activities.

7. If they see self-harm or harmful content

Tell them it’s not their responsibility to help the person — they should always tell a trusted adult.

🌈 A Warm, Safe Environment — Online and Offline

At MAIN, we are committed to:

• promoting a friendly, warm, and positive environment
• supporting families with honest, accessible advice
• working with our values in mind across all services
• ensuring confidentiality and professionalism at all times
• collecting feedback from parents, carers and young people to improve our support

If you ever have concerns about a child’s online activity, please speak to us — we are here to help.

🔗 Helpful Websites & Resources

Below are trusted, reputable sources offering guidance for families, schools and professionals:

NSPCC – Keeping Children Safe Online

UK Government – Support to Keep Children Safe Online

BBC – Internet Safety Resources for Children & Teachers

📬 Need Advice or Support?

If you are worried about a child or young person’s online activity, behaviour or emotional wellbeing, please contact our team for support.

Together, we can help create a safer, kinder online world for neurodiverse children and young people.