Chesterfield pupils to see police theatre show on bullying

The ‘Escape’ play and interactive workshop by the Saltmine Theatre Company has been funded by Derbyshire Constabulary and Chesterfield Community Safety Partnership for the area to help get the message to youngsters about how to stay safe online and the dangers of sharing personal information and photos.

Sgt. Dave Harrison, of the Chesterfield Community Safety Partnership, said: “The internet and social media is now a big part of our daily lives, and children are embracing new technologies at a much earlier age. This has many benefits but it is also important to ensure youngsters know how to stay safe whilst online.

“These performances in primary schools are designed to help children understand the impact of cyber bullying. We also hope parents will follow up by speaking to their youngsters and offering advice at home.”

It is supported by The Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP) and aims to teach the rules of the internet in a fun and accessible way to children, covering topics including cyber bullying, the dangers of talking to strangers on the internet and taking care of your personal details.

Councillor Chris Ludlow, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing said: “The majority of children will have access to the internet these days so it is important that they know the rules on how to say safe online.

“I hope that through these sessions, local children are able to know the risks, stay safe and if they are worried, know to tell an adult straight away.”