In August 2007 representatives from Northumbria Police and Newcastle University, School of Computing Science met to determine what research was being carried out in relation to 'Future Crimes' and what threat these crimes posed to the region.

On Thursday 29th and Friday 30th November 2007 The Hon. French Consul Dr. Andrew Robinson led a think tank with 30 leading strategic thinkers from across the region, UK and Europe at Close House, Heddon on the Wall, Northumberland. Sponsorship for this was provided by the Regional Development Agency, One North East, Newcastle University and N.E.F.F.

A pledge made by all representatives from regional, national, European partners, law enforcement business and citizen leaders was made to work together to recognise threats and seek opportunities to develop the project to help rebuild public confidence and trust and build a strong and confident region for the future. The aim was to do this under an umbrella partnership organisation named ‘The Hadrian Project’ based at Newcastle University.

Internet safety for families is a growing concern for parents and education professionals alike.  Cases of Cyberbullying and Internet Grooming are affecting families across the U.K. and causing deep-seated public concern.
The Hadrian Project based at the School of Computing Sciences at Newcastle University together with Microsoft and the Northern Grid for Learning have developed an accredited training course for, children, teachers, social workers and parents to raise awareness about the virtues of the Internet and the dangers of unsupervised use.  
At the same time parents will be able to learn how to apply family safety settings, security tips and advice on how to promote greater Internet safety.  
The training will be offered to all schools, City Learning Centres, companies and organisations across the U.K. from the 19th October 2009.  
Regional training providers now exist throughout the U.K. and are in the process of being ready for delivery following the launch of the programme.

The training programme will be launched at an event held at Newcastle University on Monday 19th October 2009 commencing at 9am.  
This will be a workshop event highlighting the training content and key stakeholders including, heads of schools. Educational officers and the press will be invited. This will be followed by a parent’s workshop held in the afternoon in the Durham area.

Phil Butler
Centre for Cybercrime and Computer Security
Newcastle University
School of Computing Science
www.hadrianproject.com

Head Teachers, Senior Managers and e Safety coordinators within the education sector can contact Mick Young, E Learning Officer This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for further details and invitations to the launch event.