Today is Safer Internet Day, so our Chief Executive Simone is taking a look at the dangers for children using the internet, and how we can make it safer:

“The internet can be a very exciting place for a child, and it is no different for a child in a hospice. Their conditions and disabilities can be very isolating, and the internet gives them the ability to explore the world outside the hospice walls.

At Lifelites we use technology to give these children opportunities to do things that their conditions restrict them from doing. We provide assistive and inclusive solutions to enable them to be a part of the digital world. They can stay in touch with their friends and family, watch their favourite videos, play games, keep up with their schoolwork and find a voice for themselves. But as well as creating opportunities, this level of access can also leave children vulnerable to the dangers of the internet, such as bullying, harassment, and unsuitable material, among other things.

As the providers of this technology, Lifelites’ seeks to partner children’s hospices to keep these children safe while they surf. We work with every children’s hospice by donating child friendly web filtering on their internet. We also work with carers to give them advice about using the internet with these children, who can be particularly vulnerable.

We have a technical support helpline staff can use should they ever have a problem or query, and if necessary, we will send one of our team to the hospice in person to help the staff.

If you have any questions for Lifelites about any of the equipment or services we provide, please get in touch.