Additional tips for caregivers

Personalised Items

Although personalised backpacks and other items are popular, they are not the safest choice. 

Personalising an item with your child's name can make it easier for strangers to approach them and may encourage your child to trust them as they know their name and may use this information to build rapport with your child. 

Why would my child need a Personal Network? 

Creating a Personal Network may help your child to respond and take action faster in an unsafe situation. 



If your child knows exactly who they will go to when they feel unsafe they may be able to feel safe again faster. 

Choosing a Personal Network

When helping your child to identify their Personal Network ensure they take ownership to identify people that they feel safe with. 

Your child may identify a stuffed toy or a pet as a member of their Personal Network, these things can make up part of their ‘friend’ network but it is also important to have at least one trusted adult they can go to. It is okay for your child to have different networks for different situations.

  • Who could I include in my Personal Network?

    Your child’s personal network can be made up of anyone who makes them feel safe. 


    Your child may want to create a ‘friend’ network and an adult network, as sometimes talking with a friend is not enough to make them feel safe again.


    Adults they feel safe with may include: 

    • family members
    • family friends
    • teachers or school staff 
    • coaches
  • What qualities do I want in my Personal Network?

    Help your child to identify the qualities that they would want someone in their Personal Network to have. 


    Do they listen? 

    Will they believe me? 

    Can they help me feel safe? 

    Are they accepting and understanding?


    The qualities your child may look for may differ from the qualities that you would look for, and that's okay. 

  • How will I contact my Personal Network people?

    Your child should ensure they know how they will contact their Personal Network people if and when they need them. 


    Options may include: 

    • face to face
    • phone call
    • text message 
    • email
    • letter
  • Instant Network

    In the event of an emergency your child may need to employ an Instant Network. 


    An Instant Network may include: 

    • a public place e.g.: library, Police Station, shopping centre
    • the emergency services line (000) 
    • a passerby

    It's important that you discuss options for an Instant Network with your child. In particular, they should know the public places in their area where they could receive help.