Would you know what to do if a child was being harmed or neglected?
This section is for anyone who may be concerned that a child may be at risk of abuse or neglect, and information for support and advice.
Who is responsible for looking after a child’s welfare?
The simple answer is everyone. It is all our responsibility to protect children.
All children have a right to grow up in a caring and safe environment. All adults have a responsibility to protect children, including;
- Parents
- Family members
- Friends
- Neighbours
- Members of the public
- Professionals
What is child abuse?
There are different types of abuse. For example;
- Physical injury – being hit, kicked and punched
- Physical neglect – not being properly fed or clothed and poor hygiene
- Sexual abuse – inappropriate sexual behaviour , language,indecent assault or sexual activity
- Emotional abuse – constantly criticised, ignored, humiliated and exposed to family violence
How can you tell if a child is being abused or neglected?
Children rarely tell if they are being abused. However there may be signs that concern you, that may be an indication of a child being abused or neglected. The child may:
- Appear afraid, quiet or withdrawn
- Have unexplained bruising or bruising in an unusual place
- Appear afraid to go home
- Appear hungry, tired or unkempt
- Be left unattended or unsupervised
- Have too much responsibility for their age
- Be acting in a sexually inappropriate way
- Be misusing drugs or alcohol
The adult may be:
- Acting in a violent or sexual manner towards a child
- Misusing drink or drugs while caring for a child
- Verbally abusive towards a child
What to do if you are concerned?
If you are concerned about a child, speak to someone. This might be a health visitor, nursery or school staff, a teacher, a police officer, a social worker or a doctor.
Make sure you:
- Do not interrogate the child
- Act promptly
- Note down your concerns with dates and times
- Give as much information as you know about the child and family