Action for M.E.

Online

In today's society computers play a huge part of everyday life and that's great! Instant Messaging means you are able to chat with your friends from the comfort of your home at any time- for someone with M.E. that is a fab piece of technology! However, it does have its risks so make sure you are aware of the pitfalls before you fall headlong into one. You can check out safe surfing for more information but here are some guidelines to keep you Safety Savvy!

Paedophiles regularly use chatrooms to meet young people…you won't know they are paedophiles…they will probably sound just like everybody else…that's the point. They will use all the street talk and computer lingo; listen to your kind of music and have all the best Playstation games. They will get to know you gradually, spending more and time talking to you. This is better known as 'groomimg'. So what can you do to protect yourself?

Never ever meet up with anyone you have met online alone
Never give anyone any personal details about yourself (address, mobile number, email address)
If you feel that someone is asking you a lot of personal questions stop talking with them straight away and tell an adult
If you and a friend are meeting up with someone from a chatroom always tell people exactly where you are and when you will be back

Out and about

It's important when you are feeling well to enjoy yourself and you should be able to do this without worrying.

However, there are some precautions you need to take so that you have a top night out!

Always have your transport arranged -there and back - before you go
Always have the top of your drink covered to prevent any type of drug being added
Be aware of the effect of drugs and alcohol on your M.E.