Family

• Alcohol

  Alcohol is part of British life (particularly British social life) and is not generally considered harmful in moderation. But alcohol can lead to problems.

• Bullying

  Children are as much at risk from other children as they are from adults. This is most commonly in the form of bullying, although children can also be bullied by an adult.

• Card fraud

  Card Watch, managed by APACS - the UK payments association, explain the different ways in which you could become a victim of card fraud and how to protect yourself.

• Domestic violence

  Women are more likely to be at risk in the home than outside it. Men also experience violence at home and the same advice applies to them.

• Drugs

  Most drugs are illegal and so taking or possessing them is a crime. Drugs can lead to other crimes too, for example, stealing money to pay for drugs and crime committed whilst on drugs.

• The internet

  The internet provides a useful educational tool for both adults and children. However, there is also adult material on the internet that is not suitable for children. Similarly, chat rooms are often a fun way for children to gain social skills, ‘meet' new friends and improve their computer and literacy skills. But they can be misused and this can pose a threat.

• Shop Safe Online

  The internet is an easy and convenient place to buy almost anything, but if someone gets hold of your credit or debit card details, it can also put you at risk of being a victim of fraud. MasterCard and Visa have developed secure services to help you 'Shop Safe Online'.

• Teenagers and young people

  The same rules apply to teenagers and young people as to other people about staying safe when they are out and about. Helping your children to be independent is a vital part of growing up, but they must also know how to look after themselves.

• Young children (under 11)

  Children are more likely to be victims of abuse in the home, or from someone else they know. They can be as traumatised witnessing domestic violence as children who are physically abused themselves. You can help to keep your children safe by following some simple advice from Kidscape, a national charity working to prevent bullying and child sexual abuse.