Norfolk Police aim to create an internet where everyone is ‘free to be’ themselves as part of a national social media campaign highlighting internet safety.Safer Internet Day, which runs today (11 February), is coordinated by  the Safer Internet Centre and sees multiple organisations get involved in helping to promote the safe, responsible and positive use of digital technology. The aim, to generate a conversation around online identity and to inspire young people to support each other in being who they want to be.

This year’s theme ‘free to be’ looks at whether young people feel free to be themselves online. It also explores how young people manage their online identity, and how the internet shapes how they think of themselves and others. The theme looks at whether the internet allows young people to experiment and express themselves, or if they feel limited in who they can be online.

Norfolk Police will be supporting the national social media campaign by promoting key online safety messages, advice and resources during Safer Internet Day using the hashtags #SaferInternetDay and #Freetobe. The purpose, to educate internet users on how to remain safe whilst online.

National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for child protection, Chief Constable Simon Bailey, said: “As police officers we will continue to target those intent on abusing and exploiting young people on the internet. Keeping children safe both offline and online is a key priority for policing and we work closely with the National Crime Agency to achieve this.

“Alongside this it is vitally important that young people are educated and empowered to stay safe online. Safer Internet Day is a great opportunity to promote and highlight the ways we can all make the web a better place for our children.”

Visit Norfolk Police on Facebook and Twitter for internet safety tips and advice using the hashtag #SaferInternetDay