A NATIONAL action plan to help protect children and young people online has been welcomed by MSP Kenny Gibson.

The Scottish Government plan will help children and young people develop the skills they need to stay safe on the internet and support parents and carers to be more aware of the potential risks.

The government will work with education and health organisations, police and youth charities .

Mr Gibson, said: “Children and young people are spending longer online than ever before. Many own a tablet or smartphone and almost three quarters of 12-15 year olds now have a social media profile. While the internet and mobile technology have positively transformed our lives, too many children and young people are being put at risk from online harm and abuse.

“We all have a responsibility to protect young people and this plan sets out a number of actions to improve internet safety. Its priorities include equipping children and young people themselves to stay safe online, supporting professionals, parents and carers and continuing to work with digital and social media providers to ensure children are not exposed to harm.”