A Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Online Safety Framework
摘要
This chapter presents a framework for safeguarding children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) online, developed through empirical research, stakeholder engagement, and theoretical insights. Grounded in Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory and an ecosystem approach to child online safety, the framework provides a holistic model for protecting and empowering children with SEND in digital environments. It highlights the interconnected roles of parents, educators, policymakers, and digital service providers, emphasizing how their interactions influence online safety outcomes. The chapter explores five core areas underpinning the framework: healthy relationships, resources, specialist knowledge, training, and multi-stakeholder engagement. These elements were identified through research findings and validated through expert consultation. By offering practical and adaptable guidance, the framework bridges the gap between research and practice, ensuring that safeguarding strategies are inclusive, collaborative, and responsive to the specific needs of children with SEND. The next chapter will assess the framework’s applicability in a different setting to further validate and refine its effectiveness.