Guidance issued on the safe use of AI‑generated images recognising how 'worrying it is for parents and carers to hear about images of young people being created or distorted'
Guidance has been issued to schools and community groups who who work with children on the safe use of AI images.
The Education Authority (EA), Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI) and INEQE Safeguarding Group have issued a joint letter to schools, colleges, youth clubs, sporting organisations, community groups and other settings working with children and young people, highlighting growing concerns around the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) to create or manipulate harmful and sexualised images of children and young people.
The letter warns that AI tools can alter real photos or generate convincing fake imagery, causing significant distress and harm.
Parents and carers are encouraged to seek help if anything causes concern, to talk with their children about responsible online behaviour and to think carefully before posting or sharing content.
Bernie McNally, Independent Chair of the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland said: “We recognise how worrying it is for parents and carers to hear about images of young people being created or distorted in harmful ways.
"These situations can be very upsetting, but families are not alone. Across the safeguarding partnership, we are working together to support and protect young people.
“We urge parents and carers to make sure their child thinks carefully before creating or sharing content and never post anything that could harm others or put them at risk.
“Let them know they can come to you if something online makes them uncomfortable. Clear, practical advice is available on the Online Safety Hub to help guide these conversations.”
Eve Bremner, Chief Education Officer in the EA, said: “Ensuring the safety, wellbeing and dignity of children and young people is our highest priority, and it underpins everything we do.
“Our message is clear. Children and young people are at the heart of our response.
"By issuing this correspondence, we want to reassure parents and carers that support is available every step of the way.
"Schools, safeguarding partners and the wider statutory sector are working closely together to protect young people, to help them feel safe, and to ensure they are listened to and supported.
“We remain committed to providing clear guidance and practical help so families feel equipped to navigate these emerging risks.
"Above all, we want every child and young person to know they are not alone, and that their safety online is a shared responsibility we take extremely seriously.”