An influencer is someone with an online social media presence who uses their platform and following to promote lifestyle choices, opinions, products, services and goods. Influencers can range from famous actors and musicians to gaming live-streamers and vloggers, and children and young people can grow attached to these personalities. Can there be harm in developing these parasocial relationships?

The Safer Schools NI App’s dedicated ‘Influencers’ page looks at this online phenomenon, identifies why influencers become popular among children and young people and the risks associated with these relationships. Plus, we deliver top tips on how to discuss these matters with the child in your care to help them recognise when they are being advertised to and avoid unhealthy attachments.