Introduction

This resource is aimed at social services practitioners who would like a short introduction into adults at risk of harm and online safety. The information in this learning resource was developed with the assistance of the National L&D Adult Support & Protection Group and the Iriss Evidence Search and Summary Service.

The current evidence is somewhat limited, however, there is a small body of research looking at disability and online use, harassment and safety. The literature identifies that more research is needed in this field. Practitioners need more support and training to help them gain awareness of online safety for adults at risk of harm, and to address and explore online use with the people they are supporting.

Technology and social media plays a major part in everyday life and can have many positive uses for those who may be isolated, or feel isolated, because of a disability. This resource should be used as an introduction to this topic, linking to the wider adult support and protection agenda.

A list of references follows at the end, providing links to current information and evidence. These can assist in helping adults at risk of harm stay safe online, as well as provide questions for practitioners to reflect on how they can best support this.

Learning outcomes

• This overview will raise your awareness of:
• The use of internet and social media by adults at risk of harm
• The impact of internet and social media use on behaviours, relationships and wellbeing of adults at risk of harm
• The positive and negative aspects of internet use and social media for adults at risk of harm
• How to best support adults at risk of harm online
• Resources to help adults at risk of harm keep safe and promote their wellbeing online

Some question prompts that may help you think through your own knowledge and need going forward:

• What do I currently know now about online behaviour and risk when I am supporting vulnerable adults? What do I need to know?
• What does the person I am supporting know about keeping safe online?
• What am I and my service doing to support and help keep people safe?
• What else needs be considered, or put in place, to support and help protect people?