An Garda Síochána has launched Help4U, a new digital platform designed to support children and teenagers experiencing sexual abuse or online harm. The site helps young people understand their rights, find trusted advice and connect with people who can assist them.
Help4U provides practical guidance for anyone under 18 who needs help, and also offers information for parents, teachers and professionals. The platform follows a successful pilot in Ireland and further development through the EMPACT Child Sexual Exploitation Action group, which met in Dublin earlier this year.
Assistant Commissioner Angela Willis said Help4U aims to make a real difference for children affected by online exploitation, including manipulation, catfishing, sexual extortion, harassment and the sharing of sexual images. She said the goal is to create a safer, more supportive environment where young people’s rights are protected.
Two Irish platforms are listed as resources on the Help4U platform – www.hotline.ie as it facilitates the reporting of online child exploitation and www.ispcc.ie as they have a 24-hour helpline for children.