As the expression is valid for the online world, we might as well use it: “we have taken it over the line”! The Forum is well and truly out in the open for all interested parties to take a look at and, more importantly, take part, join forces.
Launch-day was Tuesday 28th October 2025 when we had the pleasure of hosting online harms specialists from various organisations, a consultant for a large international association against online abuse, the Police, as well as passionate people who are all trying to ensure that we can make a difference.
We often hear that online safety is to protect kids, and so we should, but we cannot forget that everyone is affected. There is no sex, age or race discrimination in that world. And this is why the Forum was created, to bring forces together and look at the whole of our society in the face of online threats.
There is also the historical and very unfortunate fact that all and any form of activity should be based in London. As much as we understand that the country’s capital has a role to play, it does not have to be the only point of focus. This is why we are representing the North West, aligning efforts and shining the light up here, in this oft-forgotten part of our country.
There are in fact no less than five MPs heavily involved in the battle against online harms who represent the good people of the North West. There are also countless sports HQs based in the North West, from trampolining to rugby and hockey. So, the location is just about right!
Our conversation on Tuesday encompassed the need for schools to get the correct help in tackling the presence of mobile phones, how to educate in order to achieve the behavioural changes that are needed to tackle the issues, and how best to answer rather than react to attacks.
We only had one hour, but the conversation was flowing and the ideas gathering momentum. We are uniting to protect our communities in the digital world. Please get involved and contact us to be part of the Forum.
Photo: Canva.com