Streaming should be fun. We want to make sure you stay safe while fundraising. Here are our top tips for safe streaming:

1.  Check your privacy settings

Most streaming platforms allow you to control who sees your profile and who can talk to you.

 

2.  Keep your personal information safe

Remember that people may not really be who they represent themselves to be online. If you don’t know someone in real life, don’t give them information like your full name, address, phone number or personal photos. Be very cautious about meeting up in real life with anyone you’ve met online. If someone does ask you for your personal information, you can report them on your streaming channel. There is guidance on how to report a user on Twitch and YouTube. 

 

3.  Content Choice and Copyright

Certain content will be inappropriate for streaming. It is important to be aware of who might be watching your stream, if you’re aiming for family friendly, be sure to check the PEGI ratings (Age ratings for games). You can check these ratings meaning on the PEGI site. Games featuring excessive violence, nudity and other offensive content are also not content the National Autistic Society would endorse, so bare this in mind when choosing your stream content. If you are under 18, be sure to check these things with a guardian.
Some content will also have copyrighted material, such as music. Copyright strikes for music are common for Twitch and Youtube, and can ultimately get your channel banned, so be mindful of Royalty-Free music, Fair Use policies and Copyright Law if you’re planning on creating music content.

 

4.  Comfort and Caution

When watching a live stream or streaming yourself, things can happen which you may not expect. Some games feature bright lights, loud sounds, or other sensory stimuli that may be challenging for some people. If unexpected changes make you anxious or if you have sensory sensitivities, please take this into account before live streaming  or watching a live stream. You can add content warnings on stream, on the title, or through use of a ‘bot’.

 

5.  Taking breaks is important

It’s  important to take regular breaks – especially during long stream-a-thons. Step away from the keyboard to get snacks, stay hydrated, use the toilet, stretch, and interact with other people in real life.  These will all make your streaming better and make sure you stay healthy! Aim to take a break at least once an hour.

 

6.  Bullying is NOT okay

Streaming platforms have a way to block or report people if they are making you feel uncomfortable. Don’t be afraid to use the block and report functions and take back control. Streaming is meant to be fun, and bullying is never okay.

 

7.  Be careful with in-app purchases

Some live streamers may ask for a donation towards a cause and some games give the option of buying things. Be sure you are aware of what you’re spending before clicking on a ‘Buy’ or ‘Donate’ button.

 

8.  Look after your mental health

If your time online is getting in the way of your regular routine and starting to impact your mental health, you may need to take a break for a while. If you do feel like this is becoming a problem, it’s always a good idea to talk to someone close to you or even your GP.