Child Safety

Speaking Up: What to Do If You Feel Unsafe Online or Offline

Feeling safe is a right that every young person deserves, both in the real world and online. If something ever makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, it’s important to know that you have the power to speak up and get help. Here are some key steps to take if you ever feel unsafe:

1. Recognise Red Flags

Unsafe situations can happen anywhere - on social media, in online games, at school or in social settings. Some warning signs include:

• Someone asking you to keep secrets or do something that feels wrong.
• Receiving messages or requests that make you feel uncomfortable.
• Being pressured to meet someone in person that you only know online.
• Feeling scared, nervous, or unsure about a situation.

2. Talk to a Trusted Adult

If something doesn’t feel right, tell someone you trust. This could be:

• A parent or guardian.
• A teacher or school counsellor.
• A coach or family friend.

Speaking up is never ‘telling on’ someone, it’s about keeping yourself and others safe.

3. Know How to Report Concerns

If you experience something unsafe online or offline, take action:

• On social media, block and report harmful accounts or messages.
• In online games, use the platform’s reporting tools.
• If you feel threatened or unsafe, seek help from an adult immediately.
• For serious concerns, contact 000, helplines like Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800 or eSafety Commissioner.

4. Trust Your Instincts

If something feels wrong, it probably is. Never ignore your feelings, trust yourself and seek support. 

By recognising red flags, talking to trusted adults and knowing how to report concerns, young people can protect themselves and others. 

Child Safety at Huntingtower

At Huntingtower we are committed to providing a nurturing school environment where our students are safe and feel safe, where their participation is valued, their views respected, and their voices are heard about decisions that affect their lives. Our child safe policies, strategies and practices are inclusive of the needs of all students. The welfare of each child and young person studying at Huntingtower is the School’s paramount concern. Huntingtower has a zero-tolerance policy for child abuse and is committed to promoting child safety.

Everyone employed or volunteering at Huntingtower has a responsibility to understand the important and specific role they play individually and collectively to ensure a child safe culture in which the wellbeing and safety of all students is at the forefront of all they do and every decision they make. We encourage any student who feels unsafe to contact one of the School’s Child Safety Champions. Huntingtower’s Child Safety email address for parent and community feedback – ChildSafety@huntingtower.vic.edu.au. We look forward to hearing from you.

Mr Dean Owens

Head of Wellbeing & Learning Enrichment