'No accountability in Jersey at all' for the protection of children online, report concludes
A new report by Jersey’s Safeguarding Partnership Board warns that children in the island are increasingly vulnerable to online harm due to rising exposure to social media, gaming platforms, and digital communication tools. The study highlights significant increases in cyberbullying, grooming attempts, sexual exploitation, and access to harmful content, including self-harm and extremist material.
Professionals report that many parents underestimate the risks or lack the knowledge to monitor their children’s online activities effectively. The report also notes that children are spending more time online unsupervised, particularly after the pandemic, making them easier targets for offenders.
Agencies in Jersey say that current safeguarding systems are struggling to keep pace with rapidly evolving online threats and that better coordination, training, and resources are urgently needed. The report recommends more digital education in schools, increased parental support, stronger reporting pathways, and improved cooperation between authorities and tech platforms to protect children more effectively.
Officials stress that without stronger prevention and intervention measures, the risks to children’s mental health, safety, and wellbeing will continue to grow.
