€50,000 Awarded for Countywide Coco’s Law Online Safety Programme
Cavan Local Community Safety Partnership (LCSP) has welcomed €50,000 in funding for a major countywide initiative aimed at protecting young people and vulnerable members of the community from online harm.
The Coco’s Law Youth and Community Protection Programme will focus on preventing online bullying, image-based abuse, digital exploitation and other harmful online behaviours across County Cavan.
Overseen by the Cavan LCSP, with An Garda Síochána acting as the lead agency, the programme will bring together partners from the education, youth, community and statutory sectors to promote safer online behaviour and support digital wellbeing.
The programme has been developed in response to growing concerns regarding online safety and the challenges faced by young people and vulnerable groups when navigating digital spaces. Teachers, youth workers and community leaders have consistently highlighted the need for clearer guidance on addressing online safety concerns and supporting those affected.
The programme will provide Garda-led education and awareness sessions on Coco’s Law, alongside information on consent, responsible online behaviour, reporting mechanisms and available support services. Practical toolkits and resources will be developed for schools, youth organisations and community groups, supported by public awareness campaigns across the county.
Speaking on the announcement, Amanda Murray, Co-Ordinator of Cavan LCSP described it as a “significant investment in protecting communities from emerging online harms and empowering young people with the knowledge and confidence to stay safe online.”
A dedicated working group has been established to support the programme’s delivery. It includes representatives from An Garda Síochána, Tusla, the HSE, ISPCC, Cavan and Monaghan Education and Training Board, post-primary schools, youth services, Cavan County Council and the Community Safety Partnership.
The programme will be rolled out through educational workshops, awareness campaigns and community engagement activities. These will equip young people, parents, educators and community leaders with practical information and resources to prevent online harm and support anyone affected by it.