We are aware that some students at Wellington East may have access to the video that was live streamed on Friday. We are concerned about the impact that seeing this video may have on a young person. In line with the ways in which we keep ourselves safe online at East there are some things they should know and understand about seeing and sharing material like this.
We have communicated with students to give them the following messages.
- That we have received some advice and suggestions from Netsafe about what to do if this material is shared with them and if they come across the footage they should delete the footage, not make copies or share it and let you and the Dean know.
- That, if the video is shared with them, a report should be made to Netsafe netsafe.org.nz/report so that the scale of the problem can be known. And that it has been deemed objectionable under New Zealand law and therefore possessing and distributing the video is an offense.
- That the footage of the Christchurch attacks is disturbing and will be harmful to see. If they have viewed the video and are struggling with what they have seen we have them to please talk with you and/or make contact with the Hauora Team. Outside agencies which can provide free support include Youthline, Need to Talk and Kidsline.
- That this video was designed to cause maximum harm to the community by being widely distributed and that we all have a role to play in limiting this harm by acting to prevent it being spread.
If parents/caregivers have questions relating to this incident or other distressing online content they can contact Netsafe for free and confidential advice at netsafe.org.nz or call 0508 NETSAFE.
Please let us know if you need any support and thank you for your help with this difficult issue.
