Full Breakdown
Enhancing Online Safety for Children in North Yorkshire and Lincolnshire
10/8/2025, 2:40:45 PM
Overview of the Initiative
Quickline Communications, a rural broadband provider based in Hull, has partnered with The Police Community Clubs of Great Britain and Amber Bee CIC to implement the "Barney and Echo Caught in the Web" education programme. Launched last year, this initiative aims to enhance online safety awareness among primary school children in North Yorkshire and Lincolnshire. The programme has successfully reached over 5,500 children aged nine to eleven, alongside more than 8,300 parents and caregivers.
Programme Details and Impact
The Barney and Echo programme educates children on critical issues such as online bullying, personal security, gaming, and social media through engaging storytelling. The narrative follows Barney as he assists Echo and his friends in navigating the potential dangers of the internet. From January to July of this year, the programme was delivered in 72 schools, with participants reporting improved knowledge of online safety and strategies to combat cyberbullying.
Ian Jackson, the project leader, emphasized the importance of this learning during a pivotal transition period for children moving from primary to secondary school. He noted that increased internet usage among this age group necessitates early intervention to equip them with essential skills for safe online navigation. Jackson stated, “The funding from Quickline has been crucial... ensuring children are better prepared to tackle the challenges that are presented whilst using the internet.”
Community Engagement and Future Plans
The programme has fostered significant community involvement, with nearly 80% of families participating in homework activities that promote discussions about online safety at home. Teachers contributed 699 volunteer hours to deliver educational sessions, underscoring the commitment to digital safeguarding in schools. All participating schools have expressed interest in continuing the programme next year, with plans for expansion in the 2025/26 academic year.
Upcoming roadshow events are scheduled for November at Whitby Pavilion and Grimsby’s Centre 4 Community Centre. Additionally, a new programme is set to launch in January 2026, targeting Year 5 and 6 pupils as they prepare for the transition to secondary education.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Thanks to their involvement, we have delivered vital resources and educational programmes to schools across North Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and the East Riding, ensuring children are better prepared to tackle the challenges that are presented whilst using the internet.” — Ian Jackson, Project Leader for Barney and Echo
- “Early intervention can keep children safe online, make a lifelong difference, and we are proud to have Quickline as a partner in this important work.” — Ian Jackson, Project Leader for Barney and Echo
Conclusion
The "Barney and Echo Caught in the Web" programme represents a significant effort to enhance online safety education for children in North Yorkshire and Lincolnshire. With strong community engagement and plans for future expansion, the initiative aims to equip children, parents, and educators with the necessary tools to navigate the digital landscape safely.
