Do I have the right to set up parental controls on a child's device?

If you are responsible for a child's care and welfare, you have a duty to keep them safe. Setting up age-appropriate parental controls is a reasonable and expected step. If there is any uncertainty, discuss it with the child's social worker or the placing authority.

How do I build trust with a child so they will tell me about online problems?

Be consistent, patient, and non-judgemental. Show interest in what they enjoy online. Make it clear that they will not be in trouble for coming to you, even if they have made a mistake. Trust is built over time through everyday interactions, not a single conversation.

Child Safety for Carers

Safety guidance for anyone in a caring role — whether you look after a relative's child, have a kinship arrangement, or provide informal care. Practical steps to protect children in your care.

If you care for a child who is not your own — whether through a kinship arrangement, as a family friend, or in another caring capacity — you have a responsibility to keep them safe. This guide covers the essentials of online and offline safety, tailored to the unique position carers are in. You may not always know a child's full history, but you can still provide a safe and supportive environment.

Why this matters

Carers often step in during times of disruption or difficulty in a child's life. Children in these situations may be more vulnerable to online risks, more likely to seek validation from strangers online, or less confident about speaking up when something goes wrong. Understanding safety basics helps you provide stability and protection when children need it most.

Quick wins

high

Check that parental controls are active on all devices the child uses in your home

Time: 15 minutes

high

Create a simple emergency contacts sheet with the child and display it visibly

Time: 10 minutes

medium

Sit with the child and review their app privacy settings together

Time: 20 minutes

Common challenges

Not knowing the child's full online history or existing accounts

Have an honest, non-judgemental conversation about what apps and accounts the child uses. Frame it as getting to know them rather than checking up on them. Our conversation scripts can help you find the right words.

Navigating boundaries with birth parents about safety rules

Where possible, agree shared safety expectations with the child's parents. If this is not possible, prioritise the child's safety and document your decisions. A simple written agreement can help.

Children who have experienced trauma may be more vulnerable online

Be aware that children who have experienced neglect or abuse may be more susceptible to grooming. Extra vigilance around online friendships and private messaging is warranted, combined with building trust so the child feels safe confiding in you.