Sexting is defined as the production and/or sharing of sexual photos and videos of and by young people who are under the age of 18. It includes nude or nearly nude images and or sexual acts.

Sexting does not include the sharing of sexual photos and videos in under 18 year olds with or by adults. This is a form of child sexual abuse and must be referred to the police.

What to do if an incident involving “sexting” comes to your attention

Report it to the DSO/Academy Manager immediately

* Never view, download or share the imagery yourself or ask a child to share or download-this is illegal

* Do not delete the imagery or ask the young person to delete it.

* Do not ask the young person to disclose information regarding the imagery. This is the responsibility of the DSO

* Do not share information about the incident to other staff, young people it involves or their, or other, parents and/or carers.

* Do not say or do anything to blame or shame any young people involved.

* Do explain to them that you need to report it and reassure them they will receive support and help from the DSO/Academy Manager.