Spotlight on Safeguarding

Knife crime is a growing concern in many communities, affecting young people and their families. While most children will never become involved, it’s important for parents to stay informed and engaged.

By understanding the risks, recognizing warning signs, and having open conversations, parents can play a crucial role in keeping their children safe.

The Reality of Knife Crime

Knife crime is not just a problem in major cities; it can happen anywhere. Although most young people do not carry knives, those who do—whether for self-defence or due to peer pressure—significantly increase their risk of harm.

What You Can Do as a Parent:

• Listen without judgment – Children need to feel safe talking to you. Create an environment where they know they can share their worries without fear of punishment.
• Know who they’re with – Peer pressure is one of the biggest influences on a child’s decisions. Encourage positive friendships and stay aware of who they are spending time with.
• Check their belongings if you’re worried – If you suspect your child is carrying a knife, don’t ignore your instincts. It is your right and responsibility to ensure their safety.
• Reach out for support – If you are concerned, there are organizations that can help. Schools, local youth services, and even the police can provide guidance and intervention before it’s too late.

Early Intervention Can Prevent a Tragedy

Having regular, open conversations and staying informed about the risks can help keep your child safe.

Sexism and misogyny are increasingly present in online spaces, shaping how young people perceive gender roles and relationships. Social media, gaming, and online influencers can promote harmful ideas that normalize disrespectful behavior toward women and girls.

These influences can impact how teens interact with peers, form relationships, and view their own self-worth. As parents, understanding these issues is essential in helping young people develop respectful, healthy attitudes toward gender equality.

How Social Media and Gaming Contribute

Many online spaces subtly (or overtly) reinforce sexist views. Here’s how:

• Social Media Algorithms: Platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram use algorithms that push extreme or controversial content, sometimes leading young people down a path of increasingly sexist narratives.
• Gaming Culture: Online multiplayer games often contain toxic environments where sexist language and behaviors are normalized. Female gamers frequently report harassment, reinforcing a culture of exclusion and hostility.
• Influencer Culture: Certain influencers cater to young male audiences by portraying women as inferior or by blaming feminism for societal problems, shaping how boys and young men perceive gender roles.
• Meme Culture and Dark Humor: Sexist jokes and memes can desensitize young people, making them think these attitudes are harmless or just ‘edgy humor.’

Helping your child develop critical thinking skills and fostering open conversations can counteract harmful influences. Here’s how:

Encourage Open Conversations

• Ask non-judgemental questions like: “What do you think about how women are portrayed in media?” or “Have you noticed any sexist comments in your online spaces?”
• Share real-world examples and encourage discussion.

• If your child repeats a sexist stereotype, ask them where they heard it and gently challenge it with facts and different perspectives.
• Teach them to critically evaluate online content and question sources.

• Demonstrate respect and gender equality at home.
• Avoid reinforcing traditional gender roles and challenge stereotypes in everyday conversations.

• Monitor your child’s online activity.
• Encourage a balanced media diet, including positive representations of gender equality.
• Use parental controls where necessary but prioritise open dialogue over strict monitoring.

Twickenham School

Percy Road

Twickenham

TW2 6JW

0208 894 4503