SCHOOL staff will be among those attending the district's first conference focussing on internet safety for children and young people.

Delegates from a range of agencies involved in child protection are being invited to the event, being held in Bradford on June 12.

The conference is being organised by Bradford's Safeguarding Children Board.

Emphasis will be on easier access to existing prevention resources and advice, and training for all professionals working with children and young people to help identify those at risk of harm online.

Speakers will include Anne Longfield – the Children’s Commissioner for England – who will give a national perspective, and DCI Mark Long of West Yorkshire Police.

The conference will be chaired by David Niven, of the Bradford Safeguarding Children Board.

"The internet gives children and young people fantastic opportunities and plays a major part in their lives but we need to make sure they are safe when online," he said.

"This is a national issue which is why we want the conference to have a national as well as a local focus.

"The event will give those professionals who work with children the opportunity to hear from experts in the field so we can share best practice that will better protect young people in our district."

Michael Jameson, Bradford Council's strategic director of children's services, will open the event.

He said: "The internet and social media are changing constantly.

"It's important to bring different agencies and schools in our district together so we have the most up-to-date information on what we need to look out for to make sure children and young people are safe.

"The conference will help us develop a stronger strategic approach to protecting children and young people now and in the future."

The conference takes place at Margaret McMillan Tower, from 9am to 1.30pm.

To book a place, e-mail BSCBTraining@bradford.gov.uk.