Friendships, relationships and the community
Staying safe
All young people have the right to feel safe and secure in the community.
There are things that you can do to help you feel safe and supported:
- Plan where you are going and how you will get there
- Take a mobile phone if you have one and make sure that it is charged
- If you don't have a mobile phone, make sure you take the number of someone you trust with you
- Keep a small amount of change with you so that you can make a phone call from a public phone
- Keep all personal belongings such as your keys, purse / wallet and phone in safe place such as a bag or your pocket
- Only take the amount of money you think you will need, and keep some in your purse / wallet and some in your pocket
- Tell someone you trust where you are going and when you expect to be back
- If you can, go out with a friend or someone you trust
Safe places
A safe place is a shop or building that you can go to if you feel you are unsafe or need some support.
Find out more about safe places.
Healthy relationships
Relationships and sex are an important part of everyone's life, including for those with SEND.
Healthy relationships make you feel good about yourself.
You know you can trust the other person and they will treat you with kindness and respect.
Some relationships are not good, they can make you feel uncomfortable, unhappy or even scared.
This can happen online and in person.
If you are uncomfortable or worried about a relationship you have, you can speak to someone you trust, or you can contact a confidential service that provides support and guidance.
Find out more about healthy relationships:
Safe sex
Sex can be great, and it can also lead to big consequences for your health and wellbeing.
It is important that you practice safe sex, and take measures to prevent unplanned pregnancy.
It is a good idea to get regularly tested for Sexually Transmitted Infections.
South Tyneside's Sexual Health Service offers confidential advice and support about sexual health, contraception and pregnancy for young people aged over 14.
Online safety
Using mobile phones, social media and the internet can help you stay in touch with your friends and family when you can't see them in person.
You can also use the internet to find information and advice online.
Unfortunately, they can also make it easier for bullies and other people who might want to hurt you to get close to you.
It is really important that you know how to stay safe on your mobile phone, social media and the internet.
Find out more about staying safe online and who to contact if you are worried about yourself or someone you care for.
Safeguarding
South Tyneside Safeguarding Children Partnership
The South Tyneside Safeguarding Children Partnership oversees and co-ordinates the work carried out in South Tyneside to keep children safe.
See South Tyneside Safeguarding Children Partnership.
South Tyneside Safeguarding Adults Board
The South Tyneside Safeguarding Adults Board helps to safeguard adults with care and support needs.
See: South Tyneside Safeguarding Adults Board.
NSPCC
Find out more about staying safe and keeping someone you care for safe.