Ulster Unionist Education spokesperson, Colin Crawford MLA, and Children and Young People's spokesperson, Robbie Butler MLA, today attended a productive meeting in Belfast with INEQE Safeguarding Group to discuss the continued rollout and impact of the Safer Schools app across Northern Ireland. 

Given the recent case of cyber “catfishing”, the public dialogue around the Netflix production of Adolescence and its use as an educative tool to prevent harm and the continued battle to eradicate bullying in schools the UUP team sought an update and more detail on the digital safeguarding tool provided to local schools by local firm INIQE.  

Mr Crawford said, "When it comes to the safety of our school children, there can be no room for hesitation. The Safer Schools app offers a comprehensive tool for pupils, parents and teachers that helps to collate information, guidance and short videos in an age-appropriate format. Developed at speed during the Covid crisis the app has evolved, and I would like to see it taken up by all schools across Northern Ireland.” 

Developed by INEQE Safeguarding Group, the Safer Schools app is a comprehensive digital tool designed to enhance online safety education and support within school communities. It provides tailored, age-appropriate content for students, offering guidance on digital dangers such as cyberbullying, sexting, and managing online privacy. Teachers benefit from CPD-certified training and practical resources to support their safeguarding responsibilities. Parents and carers are provided with up-to-date advice to help them guide and protect their children in the digital world, while school leaders gain access to tools that help assess digital safeguarding practices and improve communication across their school community. The app is regularly updated to reflect the evolving risks posed by social media, online gaming, and emerging technologies. 

Mr Butler added, “I commend INEQE for their commitment to child safety, and I urge any remaining schools yet to look at this app to come on board. The prevalence of bullying hasn't receded, in fact, online bullying has multiplied the effect immeasurably with online dangers for children of all ages a very real threat. As a parent of 3 children of primary school age, I can clearly see the advantage and safeguards that this app offer.” 

Northern Ireland schools face increasing challenges related to online harms, digital well-being, and social media pressures. The Safer Schools app empowers educators, parents, and pupils with real-time, trustworthy information, making it easier to identify risks early and respond appropriately. In Northern Ireland, recent studies have shown that 1 in 3 children aged 8–15 have experienced some form of online bullying, while over 70% of parents report feeling unequipped to deal with the risks their children face online. With increased access to smartphones and social media at younger ages, the challenges around digital safeguarding have never been more pressing. 

The Safer Schools app addresses these concerns head-on by providing real-time, trustworthy information and resources that help entire school communities stay informed, alert, and prepared. From tackling harmful online trends to helping students navigate their digital lives responsibly, the app plays a vital role in prevention and education. 

Mr Butler concluded, “Every child deserves to feel safe, both in the classroom and online. The Safer Schools app is already making a difference in hundreds of schools, and I want to see that impact reach every corner of Northern Ireland. Let’s work together to ensure no school, no pupil, and no parent is left without the tools they need to stay safe in the digital world.”