This spotlight report for children and young people is a simplified version of a broader research study entitled ‘Growing up Online: Children’s online activities, harm and safety in Northern Ireland – an Evidence Report’ (Purdy et al., 2023). To create the spotlight report, two advisory groups (one with primary school-aged children and one for post-primary students) were formed. The findings from the broader research project were shared, and the young people were asked how the report could be presented in a way that was accessible to their peer group.

The research team put together an initial draft of the spotlight report, which again was shared with the two advisory groups. The groups suggested a number of changes to the report’s design, content, and structure, all of which have been implemented as far as possible. As such, the SBNI and the Stranmillis University College Research Team would like to thank the two advisory groups for their expertise and guidance in creating this spotlight report.