Feeling Supported FOBISIA Safeguarding Conference 2026

This workshop shares the powerful and deeply personal story behind the Breck Foundation, established in memory of Breck Bednar, a bright and talented 14-year-old who was groomed and killed in the UK by an online predator he met through gaming. Through Breck’s story, we explore how online harm can happen to any family and how seemingly everyday digital interactions can quickly escalate into risk when young people are targeted, isolated or manipulated.

Using this real-life context, the session moves beyond awareness to practical prevention. Participants will gain a clearer understanding of the different forms of online harm facing children and young people today, including grooming, exploitation, coercion, gaming-related risks and harmful online relationships. The workshop focuses on recognising early warning signs, understanding how offenders build trust, and developing the confidence to have open, informed conversations with young people before situations reach crisis point.

Grounded in a trauma-informed and education-led approach, the session emphasises empowerment rather than fear. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to build digital resilience, strengthen safeguarding responses and create environments where children feel safe to speak up and seek help. We will also share guidance on reporting pathways and organisations that can provide advice and intervention.

The Breck Foundation works with schools and communities across the UK and is increasingly connected with international schools, including across South East Asia, with experience supporting diverse educational settings. As a member and supporter of FOBISIA, we value the opportunity to contribute to a shared safeguarding dialogue across the region and to better understand the evolving needs of international school communities.

This session is suitable for educators, safeguarding professionals, and youth practitioners committed to helping children and young people navigate the digital world safely, confidently and with resilience.