The Internet and Young People

Youth in Mind Berkshire webinars are designed to expand the knowledge and skills of everyone working with children and young people across Berkshire. These free, one-hour, online sessions are informed by young people and designed to give you the opportunity to learn from experts about how best to support our young people's mental health and wellbeing.

Alistair Barfield - Director and founder of Deflect + Protect

Deflect + Protect is a Community Interest Company focused on keeping young people safe online.

Ali is an autistic/ADHD man who is passionate about neurodiversity and radicalism. He has graduated from Bishop Grosseteste University

He has extensive experience working in SEND school settings both in an educational and pastoral capacity, working closely within disadvantaged communities with high proportions of neurodivergent students.

His training draws on his lived experiences of autism/ADHD. He has worked for over 5 years with Britain’s neurodivergent community both in the school setting and as part of the third sector. He is particularly interested in the overlap between neurodivergence and radicalism and is an experienced public speaker.

During his webinar, Ali will talk about:

• How the digital world represents a safe space for many neurodivergent young people.
• Content creators and influencers, notable examples and a general overview of young
  people’s relationships with content.
• Practical tips and guidance on creating positive environments with young people
  regarding their digital interactions.
• How young people can be exploited online through harmful behaviours.
• Understanding young peoples lived experiences and how their online interactions
  affect them.

Ali’s webinar will end with a facilitated Q & A session. An opportunity to ask questions that may not have been covered during the session.

Find out more about Ali's work