Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt is taking action by meeting up with Social media creators to have a discussion about how they can make their websites and apps a safer place to chat.
Prior to the meetings, he tweeted that part of the responsibility for the rise of self-harm is from social media sites. Social media companies have said they make user safety the topmost aspect of their sites and apps, but more has to be done in this social media world.
Internet has its disadvantages
Having the chance to communicate online, without being there in person has millions of people using today's technology, (which isn't always functioning it's best) to keep in contact with their relatives and mates.
If it isn't used properly, it can cause chaos and even upset or annoy the wrong people.
While the internet has its positives, it can't be ignored that it has its disadvantages as well. It can be anything from a single word, picture or a video that bullies or discriminates against someone. This can lead to the victim retaliating or even self-harming. It is a devastating matter and needs positive actions applied to help prevent it.
Hunt will be working hard to solve social media problems
Mr. Hunt is going to be working hard with the social Media Companies to come up with a solution and not to carry on being the problem.
He'll be asking if they can share information such as:-
- How often does it happen and in what ways?
- The number of underage users and what can be done to prevent them using social media
- Is it possible to spot unhealthy behaviour between teenagers?
- What can be done to provide advice and support
Facebook has started incorporating add-ons such as Instagram's auto offensive comment filter and launching a new partnership between them and Childnet International and The Diana Award, who have given every UK secondary school the opportunity to have a young digital safety ambassador who'll be able to keep their users safe and look after their well being.
Instagram says "it gave tools & information on how to handle bullying and let people know about the content before being able to view it".
Previously, Instagram (owned by Facebook) has been rated the worst social media site after discovering users aged 14 to 24, have had a negative impact on their mental health.
When it comes to taking responsibility, a chief worker at YoungMinds charity has said social media companies have a very important duty in handling online bullying, but it's also just as important to provide people with knowledge.
This means letting people know about the pros and cons of being able to chat online and who to turn to and what to do in a Cyber Bullying incident. Hopefully, young people will take their actions more seriously, after understanding what the consequences might be when they post.
