GMFRS and Complex Safeguarding Hub Online Harms Seminar

Takeover 2026

Growing Up Online: Rethinking Safeguarding in a Digital World

As national debate continues around a proposed social media ban for under-16s, our upcoming young people-led conference “Growing Up Online” asks an important question: how do we empower young people to navigate the digital world safely?

Join us for this interactive conference designed and delivered by young people, in partnership with the Greater Manchester Complex Safeguarding Hub, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, and The Reign Collective.

Rather than focusing solely on online risks, this conference explores how professionals can better understand young people’s digital lives, challenge assumptions, and strengthen safeguarding practice through curiosity, digital literacy, and meaningful partnership with young people.

Through lived experience, interactive activities and practical discussions, delegates will:

• Hear directly from young people about their experiences of growing up online.
• Explore current safeguarding challenges across social media, gaming, and digital platforms.
• Reflect on the balance between protection, prevention, and empowerment.
• Challenge common myths and professional biases about online harm.
• Develop practical approaches that build resilience, critical thinking, and safer online behaviours alongside protective measures.

In a rapidly evolving digital world, safeguarding is about more than responding to risk. It is about working alongside young people to understand their experiences and equipping them with the knowledge, confidence and support they need to thrive online. Come ready to listen, reflect and rethink what effective safeguarding looks like in the digital age.