The digital landscape has rapidly become a fundamental part of life for young people. With Ofcom’s report indicating that 96% of children between 3 to 17 years old were online in 2024, the ubiquity of internet access is undeniable. The internet provides a platform for connection and learning, yet it also poses significant risks, especially for girls and young women.
At Girls’ Brigade, the dual nature of the online world is evident. Digital platforms can be crucial for young people who are geographically isolated or have limited mobility. These spaces offer community and support, but they also expose girls to harmful content that affects their self-esteem and mental health.
The numbers are alarming: a staggering three-quarters of girls aged 7 to 21 have encountered online harm. In 2024, reports of sextortion involving girls surged by 2,600%, affecting victims as young as 11. Additionally, girls accounted for 81% of victims in over 7,000 cases of sexual communication with a child.
These statistics reflect real lives. Elise, a member of Girls’ Brigade, struggled with eating disorders and low self-esteem exacerbated by social media until she found support in her faith. Caro, another individual, became a Girls’ Brigade volunteer to ensure others would not face her past challenges alone.
The issue is clear: misogynistic content has become mainstream. Influencers with massive followings degrade women, and research indicates that teenagers exposed to such content are five times more likely to think harming others is acceptable. This is not only a cultural concern but a moral one that demands attention.
Addressing this issue requires more than simply disconnecting from the internet. For many young people, online access is essential. Education and awareness are crucial. Girls’ Brigade offers programs like ‘Staying Safe in the Digital World’ to help young people critically assess the truth of online content and understand biblical truths.
Effective legislation is necessary. The UK’s Online Safety Act targets harmful content, yet enforcement is problematic. Age verification remains a challenge, and tech companies must be accountable for the content they allow. As Tim Berners-Lee, inventor of the World Wide Web, emphasized, compassion must be integrated into the internet’s framework.
Faith communities play an essential role. Churches and Christian organizations need to inform and support young people, offering safe spaces for dialogue. It’s vital to discuss both the positive and negative aspects of online interaction, ensuring young people know who to approach if they feel uncomfortable.
Trustworthy adults, whether parents, teachers, or youth leaders, are crucial. Children may hesitate to talk to parents or teachers due to fear of repercussions, highlighting the importance of trained volunteers in organizations like Girls’ Brigade.
Restricting screen time and securing devices can help, but education and awareness are key. Vulnerable individuals can still be targeted despite restrictions. Being role models by taking breaks from devices and engaging in spiritually enriching activities is also important.
Girls’ Brigade aims to engage young people in thoughtful discussions about their digital experiences, equipping them to be safe and positive influences. As the digital age persists, the challenge is to prevent it from degrading the dignity of girls and young women. At The Girls’ Brigade England & Wales, the goal is to shape this reality with compassion and faith, inviting everyone to join in this mission.
Judith Davey-Cole is CEO of The Girls’ Brigade England & Wales.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
