BE CYBER SAFE NI
Young people shaping online safety in Northern Ireland.
Young people across Northern Ireland shared what online life really feels like — and what needs to change.
This project made sure their voices were heard by decision-makers, parents and organisations responsible for keeping children safe online.
It helped my confidence and I enjoyed being able to share my ideas – Iona, 14
About the project
Being online is part of everyday life – for learning, friendships and fun. But young people told us:
Be Cyber Safe NI created space for youth voice to be heard, where young people could:
What young people told us
Online life is both positive and risky
Where things go wrong
“If there’s not a button to report, we won’t report it.”
What helps:
“When parents talk with us, not at us, it really helps.”
Who is responsible
Youth voice in action
Young people didn’t just talk – they influenced real change
Stormont Cyber Cafe
Young people spoke directly to:
- Ministers
- government departments
- online safety experts
They shared what needs to change to improve digital safety for young people – and were listened to.
“Getting my voice out to all the MLAs and people from Ofcom.” — Theo, 14
Real influence
- Feedback shared with Ministers
- Campaigns improved using youth input
- Online safety work shaped by real experiences
Media campaigns and creative output
Young people helped create content to share their experiences with a wider audience
Podcast series
A three-part podcast exploring:
- real online experiences
- how adults can respond better
- what needs to change
Listen below to hear from young people sharing their perspectives on social media safety and online harms.
Animation videos
Young people helped shape a series of short animations that:
- reflect real online experiences
- encourage reporting
- remind young people: it’s not your fault
Watch the animations young people helped create
below.
What changed?
This project made a real difference
For young people:
- more confidence
- feeling heard
- skills to speak up
For organisations:
- better understanding of online experiences
- youth voice shaping decisions
For online safety in Northern Ireland:
- input into the Online Safety Strategy
- improved campaigns and resources
- stronger focus on youth participation
What needs to change?
Online safety education
- Start earlier. Make it meaningful
Parents & carers
- Stay calm. Listen. Support
Reporting
- Make it simple. Make it work
Platforms
- Design safer systems — with young people involved
“There’s no point designing something for young people if you haven’t spoken to young people.”
Final words
Young people are experts in their own lives.
Be Cyber safe NI shows what happens when we listen, involve, and act.
