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Not able to receive calls or sms texts
Hi im looking for advice from anyone that has had similar issue please. I ported my number from Smarty to ID yesterday and since its ported I can't receive calls (working fine before) The message caller gets when they try call me is the number is not recognised. I am also unable to receive sms texts - the sender says they are undeliverable. I can make calls and send sms texts fine. This issue has only happened since I ported my number. I've spent full day online chatting with agents and checking settings etc, all are fine. I picked up new sim from curry's to try and the problem still persists. Even when I insert the replacement sim into my old handset it doesn't work but other sims work fine in both handsets so issue must be down to the port or network as I've ruled out sim issue, setting issues and handset issue. The advisor told me port was successful and has passed my issue onto technical team. I was told the technical team will text me with update - eh how us that possible when I can't receive texts and that's what my complaint was about! I asked if they can email me but told no. I've been told to contact live chat again in few days for update. Im so frustrated as now im having to go through the advisor chat and not able to chat directly with technical team. Can't call ID mobile either as they don't accept calls - dont understand how a phone provider can leave you with no phone service for as long. Im paying for a service that is not being fully provided. Its so frustrating
Protecting your children's mental health online.Blog
The internet is packed with cool stuff for kids, but it also comes with some not-so-great things. We’re talking about things like cyberbullying, endless late night scrolling sessions, and the occasional shady stranger lurking in comment sections. Yes, the internet can be awesome - but it can also impact children’s mental health if we're not careful. That’s why having regular chats about online safety is super important. Don’t worry - this isn’t about giving boring lectures that make your kids do eye rolls. We’re here to help you start real, honest conversations that stick. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or the cool aunt/uncle, here’s your friendly guide to talking to kids about staying safe online (without sounding like a broken record). 1. Starting the conversation about online safety (without making it awkward) Talking about online safety doesn’t have to feel like a formal meeting where you’re both sitting stiffly at the dining table. Keep it casual! The goal is to encourage open, honest discussions about your child’s digital life Think of it like chatting about their day at school—just with a little “internet twist.” Ask questions like: “What’s the funniest thing you saw online today?” “Who do you play with on that game? Are they friends from school or new people you met?” “What’s your favourite app right now? Show me how it works!” These questions aren’t just small talk—they’re clever conversation starters. They help you understand what your kids are doing online without making them feel like they’re being interrogated. The key? Create a safe space where they know they can tell you anything without getting in trouble. And if they do open up about something that worries you (like someone being mean online), try not to react with shock or go straight into “fix-it” mode. Keep your cool, listen first, and then figure out the next steps together. 2. Understanding cyberbullying and its impact (because it’s more than just “mean comments”) Now let’s talk about cyberbullying, because it’s a serious issue that can really mess with a young person’s mental health. It happens when someone uses technology—texts, social media, games, you name it—to harass, threaten, or embarrass another person. Here’s what cyberbullying might involve: Nasty comments on posts. Spreading rumours through direct messages (DMs). Excluding someone from group chats (the modern version of “you can’t sit with us”). Sharing embarrassing photos without permission. Kids don’t always tell adults when they’re being bullied online. That’s why it’s important to look out for signs like: Suddenly not wanting to be online - or being too glued to their phone. Getting upset after checking messages. Withdrawing from friends or activities they used to love. Changes in mood, sleep, or school performance. If you notice anything off, check in with a simple, “Hey, I’ve noticed you’ve been a bit down lately. Is everything okay? Anything going on online that’s bothering you?” The emotional impact of cyberbullying can be pretty intense - anxiety, low self-esteem, even depression. But when kids know they can talk to someone who has their back, it can make a world of difference. 3. Steps to report and get support in the UK (because you’re not alone in this) If your child is dealing with online nastiness, please don’t panic - there are plenty of ways to take action. Here’s a good four-step plan: Report and block Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat have tools to report inappropriate content and block users. Teach your child how to do this (bonus points if you practice together). Get expert assistance There are some trustworthy UK organisations ready to help: Mind UK: Mental health support Samaritans (116 123): Someone to talk to, 24/7 National Bullying Helpline: Advice on dealing with bullies The Mix: Support for young people with everything from online drama to mental health Talk to the school If the bullying involves classmates, have a meeting with your kid’s class teacher and head teacher. They’ve dealt with this before, and will have systems in place to help. 4. Encouraging positive digital habits (so it’s not just about “don’t do this…”) Online safety isn’t just about avoiding the bad stuff—it’s about building healthy habits that make the internet a positive space. Here’s what you can do: Set boundaries (but make it a team effort) ​​​​​​​ Instead of just declaring, “One hour of screen time only!” try working together to set limits. Ask something like: “What do you think is a good balance between gaming and homework?” When kids feel involved, they’re more likely to stick to the rules. Digital detox - not as scary as it sounds ​​​​​​​ Suggest screen-free activities like family game nights, outdoor adventures, or even just a tech-free dinner. You might be surprised at how relaxing it is when no one’s sneaking a look at their phone under the table. Find the good stuff online ​​​​​​​ Not all screen time is doom and gloom. Encourage your kids to explore online spaces that are creative, educational, and uplifting. Think coding games, art tutorials, or cool science videos - hello, DIY volcano experiments! The bottom line: keep the conversation going Protecting kids online isn’t a one-and-done chat. It’s an ongoing conversation. The more you talk about it, the more comfortable they’ll feel coming to you when something’s wrong. So, stay curious, keep listening, and remind your kids (and yourself) that the internet can be an amazing place - just as long as you all know how to navigate it safely. If you’ve got any online safety conversation tips of your own to share, let’s hear them! Please feel free to share your comments below.
Protecting your mental health online.Blog
There’s a lot to love about the internet, but it’s also important to understand how the web can have a negative effect on your wellbeing. Whether it’s being a victim of cyberbullying or just spending too much time on a social platform, there are a few things online that can cause distress or create unhealthy habits. That’s why in this article, we'll offer tips on how to recognise and respond to issues like cyberbullying and internet addiction. Plus, we’ll discuss the importance of open conversations and ask for some of your best tips for using the internet healthily. What is cyberbullying? Cyberbullying is the use of tech to harass, threaten, or target someone. It can take many forms, ranging from mean replies left on social media posts to the use of insulting language in an online game. Sending hostile direct messages or posting personal info or pictures to embarrass someone counts as cyberbullying too. It's super important to recognise the signs of cyberbullying, as it can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems. Especially amongst younger people who can feel more vulnerable and sensitive to harassment. How to report cyberbullying and get support in the UK. If you or someone you know is experiencing cyberbullying, there are lots of ways to report it and get support. Most social media companies have tools that help you report abusive content quickly and easily. Here’s a quick guide for some of the most popular platforms: Facebook: Find the post you want to report and click on the three dots in the top right corner. Select ‘Report post’ to notify Facebook admins. Instagram: Tap the three dots above the post and choose ‘Report’. You can then follow the on-screen instructions. TikTok: Tap the share icon on the video, select ‘Report’, and choose the reason why you’re reporting that content. Snapchat: Press and hold on the Snap, tap the flag icon, and follow the prompts. There are also other ways to fight back against cyberbullying, with several UK helplines and organisations able to offer assistance. This includes: Mind UK : Provides advice and support to anyone experiencing a mental health problem. Samaritans : Available 24/7 for anyone who needs to talk. Just call 116 123. National Bullying Helpline : Offers support for anyone affected by bullying. The Mix : Supports young people under 25 on various issues, including mental health. It's crucial to report issues in professional settings or community spaces too. By speaking up, you can help create a safer and more supportive space for everyone — not just yourself. Promoting positive digital wellbeing. Sometimes, you can have too much of a good thing — including the internet. That’s why it can be really beneficial to set some boundaries when using the web, so you don’t get addicted or end up talking to the wrong people. Here are some handy tips to keep in mind: Limit screen time and social media usage: Try to keep tabs on the amount of time you spend online. In fact, loads of phones now deliver weekly screen time notifications to help you monitor this. It’s also a good idea to avoid scrolling through your socials before bed for a better night. Give digital detoxes a go: Actively take time away from your screen to give your eyes a rest, recharge, and focus on other things. Go for a walk, take a trip somewhere with a loved one, the world’s your oyster! Be mindful when interacting online: When you’re using social media, think about how you interact with others and always try to be respectful. Ask yourself this: would you say what you’ve typed out to a stranger in person? Curate your feed: Don’t follow social media accounts that post content which makes you feel anxious or stressed. Use positive online spaces and support networks: Join online communities that promote positivity and provide support. It’s always best to take part in activities that make you feel good and to connect with others who share your interests. The importance of open conversations. We’ve suggested a few effective ways to report cyberbullying and form healthier habits using the internet. But don’t forget that one of the best to ways keep your mental health in check is by talking to your friends, family, or colleagues about your experiences. Whether that’s to discuss issues you’ve had online or otherwise. It really can make a huge difference! If you’re a parent or guardian, creating a safe space for your child to share their concerns is also essential. Encourage them to talk about their online experiences and listen without judgment. Schools and workplaces also play a big role in promoting digital wellbeing by creating environments where people feel comfortable discussing their online lives. Did we miss any helpful tips that promote positive digital wellbeing? Please share yours in the comments below, we’d love to hear them.