Last week I attended an Internet Safety presentation given by the Police to primary-aged pupils in a local school.

Despite having a child just a year younger than the pupils who were attending the presentation I was astonished by the responses from the Primary 6 and 7 pupils in attendance.

It seemed that every single child in the room had access to at least 5 internet-connected devices. Which just brought home the need to make sure they understand the dangers.

This presentation is being given to all primary schools in the area, and I have seen similar presentations at the academy.

It is scary to acknowledge though, that no matter how expert adults are (I have a masters in IT) there is no way our experience can match that of children and young people today who have grown up connected to the internet.

Which I am particularly aware of after my order for superfast broadband hit a problem last week and we have lost all internet and phone connection.

My 16-year-old appears to think this is the worst possible thing that could ever happen – and has seriously suggested moving in with family until our broadband is restored.

The roll out of superfast broadband is finally building momentum in Helensburgh with both the BT commercial programme and the government-run programme activating new cabinets. My cabinet went live at the New Year and I ordered it pretty much instantly as broadband has become an essential part of our home life.

The Scottish Government has made a commitment that 100 per cent of all properties will have superfast broadband by 2021, while it is the UK Government’s responsibility to ensure mobile services are improved.

All Mobile Network Operators have signed a binding agreement which guarantees wider coverage from each operator by the end of 2017.

The Council is keenly aware of the need to ensure both broadband and mobile connectivity are available to local residents and businesses and continues to raise issues with industry and national governments.

Another local area progress update should be available in the spring – reporting on both broadband and mobile works.

I’ve personally met with representatives from companies such as EE and BT as well as the Scottish and UK Governments. Some progress has been made on issues (such as the lack of signal on the A82 along Loch Lomond-side) but there is still much more to be done.