A UK parent's walkthrough for reporting posts, comments, subreddits, direct messages and users on Reddit, plus the UK reporting routes when a child is at risk.
Reddit is a large public forum where reports go first to subreddit moderators and then to Reddit's site-wide admins. Anonymous accounts and unfiltered direct messages are the most common safeguarding concerns for children. Reports can be made in-app, on the web, and via the public reporting form at reddit.com/report.
This page walks through how to report each surface, what to save first, and the UK escalation routes. If a child is in immediate danger, call 999.
Screenshot the post, comment thread or chat. Copy the permalink (use the three-dot menu → Copy link) so you have the full reddit.com/r/... URL. Note the username (with the u/ prefix) and the date.
Tap the three-dot menu on the post or comment, choose Report. Pick the reason — Reddit's wizard guides you through Threatening violence, Sexualisation of minors, Harassment, etc. Submit and the report goes to subreddit moderators and to Reddit Admins for serious categories.
Open the user's profile, tap the three-dot menu, choose Report user. For grooming or sexualisation of minors, use that specific category — it routes straight to Reddit's Trust & Safety team.
In a DM, tap the three-dot menu on the message, choose Report. In Reddit Chat, do the same. Always save the screenshot first — blocking the user removes your access to the conversation.
Use Reddit's dedicated report flow at reddit.com/report → Minor sexualisation. Also report the URL to the Internet Watch Foundation at iwf.org.uk. Do not save or share the image yourself.
For grooming or sexual content involving a child, report to CEOP at ceop.police.uk and call 101 (or 999 if a child is in immediate danger). For confidential adult advice, NSPCC 0808 800 5000. Childline supports the child directly on 0800 1111.
Reassure the child and explain what you are doing. Tell the school's Designated Safeguarding Lead if the contact involves other pupils or has spilled into school life.
Save evidence BEFORE blocking the account: once blocked you may lose access to the messages.
This guidance is for informational purposes. It is not a substitute for emergency services or professional safeguarding support. If a child is in immediate danger, call 999 now.