Worries about city kids being exploited online during the school summer holidays due to the cost of living crisis have been raised.

Children's charity Barnardo's has sounded the alarm amid concerns that the cost of living crisis will make it more difficult for parents to afford to keep their kids entertained. 

Local charity The Benjamin Foundation has admitted it is "very aware" of those worries, as it prepares to offer support to local families.

Barnardo’s chief executive Lynn Perry said: “During the pandemic, we saw a rise in new forms of exploitation – with children increasingly groomed, recruited and exploited over social media, chat rooms and on gaming platforms.” 

Research by Banardo’s found that 46pc of parents said they are worried about being able to afford days out and holiday clubs.  

Norwich Evening News: Sharon Matthews, director of operations at The Benjamin FoundationSharon Matthews, director of operations at The Benjamin Foundation (Image: The Benjamin Foundation)

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In addition to this, one in five said that they were unable to take time off work to spend with their children.  

Sharon Matthews, director of operations at The Benjamin Foundation, which covers Norfolk and Suffolk from its Norwich base, said: "We are very aware of the challenges the school holidays can present for some children and young people.   

“Despite pressures on funding, we are able to offer the young people we work with access to support and activities throughout the holidays. We ensure these are accessible regardless of family income.   

Norwich Evening News: Research from Barnardo's raised concerns about kids' internet use during the school holidays Research from Barnardo's raised concerns about kids' internet use during the school holidays (Image: Pa Images)

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"It is important to remember that many young people build positive online networks and are very adept at creating healthy social connections online.   

“Across our services we work to build up skills in online confidence and competence in children and young people, with personal safety being a focus." 

Another children's charity, the NSPCC, has also said the cost of living crisis must not be allowed to “fuel another surge in abuse” as happened in the pandemic.