Digital Safeguarding
A SIMPLE IDEA: YOU SHOULDNT HAVE TO DEAL WITH ONLINE HARM ALONE
Digital safeguarding means keeping you safe from harm that happens online through your phone, social media, email, or any app you use day to day, including while you’re learning with us. It covers anything from someone messaging you inappropriately, to being pressured to share personal information, to coming across content that worries or upsets you. It also means having a clear, confidential way to tell someone if it happens and knowing what will happen next. Why it matters Most of us spend hours online every day, often without thinking twice about it. That makes it just as important to look out for risks online as it is on a construction site the harm is real, even if you can’t see it physically.
Things that could happen and why you should tell us
These are real situations that learners can face during their time with us. If any of these happen to you, please report it.
Someone contacts you online promising work after your course
You’re close to getting your CSCS card or finishing your NVQ and suddenly someone messages you on Facebook, WhatsApp, or LinkedIn promising a job but asks you to pay a fee or share your bank details first. Legitimate employers never charge you for a job. Tell us straight away.
A message that looks like it's from RMF but isn't
Someone might contact you pretending to be from RMF Training asking for personal details, money, or your CSCS/CPCS card information via WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, or email. RMF will never ask for payment through social media or informal messages. Contact us directly if you’re unsure.
Being bullied or harassed by another learner online
If someone from your course or anyone connected to your training is sending you threatening, abusive, or unwanted messages online, that is harassment and it needs to be reported. It doesn’t matter whether it happens inside or outside of course hours.
Being added to a WhatsApp group you didn't ask to join
Unofficial WhatsApp or social media groups may be set up by people claiming to represent RMF or your course. Be cautious about what you share personal details, location, or copies of your certificates and cards should never be shared in unverified group chats.
THE STEPS SO YOU'RE NEVER LEFT IN THE DARK
You tell us
Use the phone, email, or reporting system to promptly report any issues, concerns, or incidents so that they can be addressed as quickly as possible.
Your DSL listens, in confidence
Our Designated Safeguarding Lead will speak with you privately, take your concern seriously, and agree the next steps with you.
We act and keep you informed
We’ll take the right action to protect you and stay in contact throughout you’ll always know what’s happening.
You can also contact these organisations directly
These services are completely independent of RMF, free to contact, and available to anyone.
Action Fraud
Report online scams, fraud, and fake job offers
Call: 0300 123 2040
CEOP
Report online grooming or sexual exploitation
Website: ceop.police.uk
Report Harmful Content
Report abusive or harmful content found online
Website: reportharmfulcontent.com