LSE Research OnlineInternet safety helplines: exploratory study first findingsThuyDinhauthorLorleenFarrugiaauthorBrianO'NeillauthorSofieVandoninckauthorAncaVelicuauthorExecutive Summary: This is the first short report on a study of Helplines, an essential component of the network of Safer Internet Centres coordinated by Insafe. 70% of all helplines are general service helplines with 30% dedicated specifically to internet safety. All helplines offer a confidential service that offers information, support, guidance and referral. Helplines offer a range of services using a variety of platforms: telephone counselling services, email support, support using online chat, text services, online forum, peer support, social networking and in some instances face-to-face support. Among the most important success factors identified by helplines include: ‘positive feedback from callers’, the ‘number of calls’ and ‘participation from stakeholders’. Among the most persistent risks identified by helplines are bullying and cyberbullying (92%) followed by hate speech (88%) and sexual content (75%). Recommendations arising from the study call for development of an alert system for emerging risks, access to technical expertise for helpline staff and support for further stakeholder collaboration.H Social Sciences (General)2016-01-08Better Internet for KidsMonograph

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