TikTok says videos of milk crate challenge will be removed

  • TikTok has issued a statement condemning the milk crate challenge and warning users that it will remove any relevant videos in accordance with its guidelines.
  • The challenge involves stacking milk crates in the shape of a pyramid and attempting to climb to the top and then back down again, with many videos ending in failure.
  • Doctors have warned against the danger of this challenge and the potential injuries.
  • TikTok removed the hashtag associated with the challenge on Wednesday, stating that it glorifies dangerous acts.
  • For more information on viral challenges, check out our blog.
  • Full story, here.

OnlyFans planned porn ban suspended after user outcry

  • OnlyFans has “suspended” the plan to ban sexually explicit content following an outcry from its creators and advocates for sex workers.
  • The platform, best known for its creators’ adult videos and photos, announced earlier in the week that it would prohibit sexually explicit content starting on the 1st of October.
  • It’s not clear whether yesterday’s announcement permanently reverses the planned ban, but OnlyFans tweeted that it had secured assurances to support and provide a home for their diverse creator community.
  • Full story, here.

Department of Education releases new guidance on teacher misconduct

  • The Department of Education has published a consultation on proposed changes to its guidance on teacher misconduct and the prohibition of teachers.
  • Amongst the changes, six new offence types were added that result in teachers being banned from the professions.
  • These include harassment and/or stalking, child cruelty and/or neglect, voyeurism (including upkskirting), image-based sexual abuse, sexual communication with a child, and controlling or coercive behaviour.
  • These were already considered “relevant offences”, but the new guidance includes more specific references to certain types.
  • Other changes include clarifying behaviours of unacceptable conduct, updating list of incompatible behaviours, and the creation of two offence lists.
  • The full report can be found here.
  • Full story, here.

NICCY report reveals pandemic had severe impact on young people

  • A report from the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People (NICCY) reveals that more than half (52%) of 16-year-olds felt their mental and emotional health had worsened during the pandemic.
  • The report considered education, mental and physical health, and wellbeing It involved 4,385 young people through surveys and focus groups.
  • While NICCY acknowledged that the restrictive measures taken in the pandemic were necessary to protect people, the report also revealed that many existing inequalities have widened.
  • This follows findings from a report by the National Children’s Bureau which reported that families of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) felt forgotten in the COVID response.
  • Full story, here.