Supporting Young People to Make Safer Choices Online

From 5th to 31st August, North Yorkshire Council is supporting Counter Terrorism Policing’s “What You Share Leaves a Trace” campaign, which aims to raise awareness amongst young people about the risks and consequences of engaging with and sharing terrorist or extremist content online.

Counter Terrorism Policing continues to see young people being investigated and referred to Prevent after accessing and sharing terrorist content online. While some cases involve deliberate offending, many young people do not fully understand that their online activity can have serious real-world consequences.

Building on the success of previous campaigns, this year’s summer campaign is aimed at young people aged 16 to 17. Developed through the ACT Early programme, the campaign is informed by research showing that clear, tangible consequences are the strongest deterrent for this age group.

Throughout August, the campaign will feature short-form social media content reinforcing the message that “What You Share Leaves a Trace”. The campaign highlights the potential consequences of engaging with terrorist content online, including impacts on future opportunities, international travel, education, employment and potential criminal investigations.

Key Messages for Young People

Young people need to know that:

• Sharing terrorist content is a criminal offence.
• Online actions leave a trace.
• A moment online can affect your future.
• Your phone, education, travel opportunities and future career could all be impacted.

Supporting Young People During the School Holidays

During the summer holidays many young people spend more time online. Parents, carers, family members and professionals are often the first to notice when something seems out of character.

Changes in behaviour, becoming increasingly isolated, expressing intolerant views, or engaging with harmful extremist content online can sometimes indicate that a young person may need additional support.

These signs do not automatically mean someone is being radicalised. However, if you are concerned about a child or young person, it is always best to seek advice early and trust your instincts.

What is Prevent?

Prevent is part of the UK’s counter-terrorism strategy and aims to stop people becoming involved in terrorism or supporting extremist views that can lead to harm. It is a safeguarding programme that provides support to individuals who may be vulnerable to radicalisation.

Find out how Prevent aims to stop people becoming involved in terrorism or supporting extremist views that can lead to harm, and what to do if you are concerned about someone:

• Prevent in North Yorkshire
• What You Share Leaves a Trace Campaign

Look out for the campaign which will be promoted nationally across TikTok, Snapchat and YouTube, supported by partner organisations sharing campaign messages through their own networks and communication channels.

By working together, we can help raise awareness, encourage safer online choices and ensure young people understand that what happens online can have lasting offline consequences.

Further Information

Prevent in North Yorkshire