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Liaura Multi-Colour Gradient Background

Our Story

 In February 2024, Ofcom reported that 3 in 5 secondary school-aged children have been contacted online in a way that made them feel uncomfortable. 

 

Social media wasn’t built for children. 

 

Coming with a vast background history of working in EdTech, Digital Safeguarding and Social Platforms, Hugh Shepherd (Founder & CEO of Liaura) set out to tackle this issue head-on.  

 

Speaking to educators, psychologists and parents. Tinkering, exploring, building.  

Photo of Liaura Founder Hugh Shepherd

“I found myself asking, ‘Why are we leaving children to navigate a world we barely understand ourselves?’ This idea came from my own childhood struggles with mental health, identity, belonging and safety. I was searching for meaning in my work, and I refused to accept ‘that’s just how the internet is’ as an answer.” 

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Hugh Shepherd, Founder & CEO, Liaura

Li

In Confucian philosophy, "li" is an ethical concept that can be translated as "rite" or "proper conduct". This reflects our core value of safety-first and doing the right thing for young people. In Norwegian it means to “get closer”, reflecting the social aspect of Liaura.

aura

“aura” represents positivity and progression in a safe and secure environment. 

 

It symbolises a safe, walled-garden environment that fosters social learning, creativity, and well-being for young users.

What is Liaura? 
 

Liaura is a safe, human-led digital space for children and vulnerable users to connect, learn and grow. This community-focused social platform is centred around supervision, inclusion and emotional intelligence, rather than in algorithms and advertising. 
 

Liaura was born after a story was published online about harm and manipulation in 2024. A survey was then conducted as part of market research, and 87.9% of respondents said that exposure to inappropriate content is their main concern about children’s online experience. Hugh’s direct experiences with these challenges, combined with the alarming trends he was seeing, compelled him to create a solution that genuinely prioritises child safety.  

 

How can I get involved with Liaura? 

 

The Liaura app is in early testing, thanks to support from Innovate UK and the Centre for Digital Innovation. We’re currently: 

  • Onboarding test families and educators 

  • Looking for content creators and exploring partnerships with those passionate about wellbeing, inclusion or learning for children & SEND communities. 

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How do I contact the team at Liaura? 

 

Want to learn more about Liaura as an investment opportunity or for more information for your children? Contact the team.

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