Water safety
A message from Lancashire Fire & Rescue Service – Drowning Prevention
NHS England Safeguarding Alert – Online Risks on TikTok
NHS England has issued a safeguarding alert following concerns raised in Essex, where two individuals have been engaging with vulnerable young people via TikTok and are believed to be encouraging self‑harm.
Although this activity has been identified in Essex, we are sharing the alert locally to ensure all Lancashire staff remain aware of the potential risk, particularly for children and young people who may be exposed to similar online behaviours.
What ECS staff in Lancashire need to know:
- While the specific individuals and cases are based in Essex, the nature of social media means risks can spread geographically.
- Please be alert to any online contact children, young people, or young adults you work with may be having, especially via TikTok.
- Remind parents and carers of the importance of monitoring digital activity and flagging any concerns promptly.
- In inpatient or residential settings, ensure all external contact and visiting procedures are followed as normal.
Helpful resources for families and professionals
The alert links to trusted online safety guidance:
- ‘What I wish my parents or carers knew…’: A guide for parents and carers on managing children’s digital lives | Children’s Commissioner for England
- Support for parents and carers to keep children safe online – GOV.UK
Reporting concerns
Please continue to follow your usual safeguarding procedures and report concerns through established internal pathways.
Letters to Parents/Carers
Please find our Academy letters to Parents/Carers below: