The accessibility of the internet is undoubtedly one of the reasons it has become such a widely used tool. The ability to connect with people across the globe is a strong attraction for those looking to expand their social circles. However, as Antonietta reminds us, balance is key, and there are important precautions that should not be overlooked. Roberta Speziale and Daniela Cannistraci from ANFFAS share insights on a program designed to help people with intellectual disabilities navigate the web more safely and independently.
SafeSurfing is a project led by Inclusion Europe, an association for people with intellectual disabilities, with participation from four European organizations: ANFFAS Onlus (Italy), Plena Inclusion (Spain), Mencap (UK), and PSOUU (Poland). The initiative aimed to educate individuals with intellectual disabilities about data protection and online safety.
The project’s first phase took place online. Through the social media accounts of the participating organizations, five key questions were shared to assess the main risks and concerns faced by people with intellectual disabilities when using the internet. These questions were the same across all organizations but were translated into different languages.
Each organization then produced a short video—starring individuals with intellectual disabilities—focused on different themes derived from the responses received on social media. The topics covered included:
- Safe internet use
- Essential internet knowledge
- Mobile devices: opportunities and risks
- Staying safe on Facebook
- What information should you share online?
ANFFAS created a video specifically about the responsible use of mobile phones, tablets, and smartphones, covering topics such as purchasing devices, using apps like Instagram wisely, and understanding the risks of sharing one’s location or phone number online.
Following the video production, interactive online seminars (webinars) were held to further discuss these topics. Over 1,000 individuals with intellectual disabilities, caregivers, and professionals participated.
What happens during a typical webinar?
Before each webinar, participants received informational materials outlining the topics to be covered, instructions for accessing the online platform, links to the related video, and questions designed to assess their understanding. During the live session, attendees could ask questions directly to the trainers. After the webinar, participants received a summary document with course slides and key takeaways.
What were the results?
The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Many participants reported changing their social media habits, becoming more cautious about sharing personal data and images. Some were unaware that once a photo is uploaded to Facebook or the internet, it remains accessible indefinitely.
Additionally, the project raised awareness among caregivers and professionals about the challenges people with intellectual disabilities face online, including cyberbullying and other digital threats. Interest extended beyond the initial participants, with many requesting access to the materials even after the webinars had concluded.
Will the webinars continue?
At present, the project has officially ended, and it is unclear whether Inclusion Europe plans a second edition involving organizations from other countries. However, the videos remain available on the ANFFAS website and YouTube channel, making them a lasting resource. Given that the internet is an integral part of modern life, understanding how to use it safely and effectively remains essential.
How were participants selected?
There were no specific selection criteria. ANFFAS simply invited interested individuals through its local branches, resulting in a diverse group of participants from across Italy.
How many people took part?
More than 1,000 individuals joined the webinars.
A previous article in Corriere della Sera highlighted the importance of addressing issues beyond online safety. Simona Pennacchia, a neuropsychiatrist at ANFFAS Ostia, noted: “Some young people have experienced bullying and discrimination due to their disabilities, so we initiated programs to boost their self-esteem and support their social inclusion. We started with seemingly simple yet significant aspects of teenage life, such as choosing appropriate clothing, coordinating colors, and personal grooming. These sessions also explored emotional and social development, helping participants build real-life relationships, navigate public transportation, and manage money. These are all essential skills that foster independence and integration.”
Are these initiatives separate from the SafeSurfing project?
While different in focus, all ANFFAS projects aim to protect and empower people with disabilities, particularly regarding technology and digital inclusion. The organization is committed to promoting self-advocacy, ensuring that people with intellectual disabilities can express their needs and advocate for their rights.
A significant step in this direction is ANFFAS’s recent project, Io, Cittadino! (I, Citizen!), which led to the creation of the Italian Self-Advocates in Motion Platform. This initiative, recognized by Italian President Sergio Mattarella and affiliated with the European Platform of Self-Advocates (EPSA), provides a space for individuals with intellectual disabilities to voice their concerns and push for policy changes across various domains.
Through this platform, self-advocates can bring important issues to the attention of the public, institutions, stakeholders, families, and professionals, highlighting challenges that often go unnoticed but significantly impact their lives.
– Roberta Speziale (Psychologist, Head of Advocacy, Institutional Relations, and Communication at ANFFAS Onlus) and Daniela Cannistraci (Advocacy, Institutional Relations, and Communication at ANFFAS Onlus), 2017.
