Your life

Your questions about child protection

1. What is child abuse?

Children can be abused in different ways. They can be physicall injured, for example by punching, hitting, slapping, biting, kicking, being burned or cut. They can also be abused sexually, which means that they have experienced inappropriate sexual behaviour or language. Emotional abuse, where a child is constantly criticised, ignored or humiliated, also causes harm. Neglect is another form of abuse, where a child is not properly fed, clothed or sheltered or kept clean.

2. What signs might indicate that a child is being abused?

Children who have been abused rarely tell, but there are signs which may make you worry that a child has been abused. The child may have unexplained bruising, or bruising in an unusual place, seem afraid, quiet or withdrawn, be afraid to go home, or seem hungry, tired or unkempt. You may be concerned if a child is left alone or unsupervised, has too much responsibility for their age, is acting in a sexually inappropriate way or is misusing drugs or alcohol. You may also see behaviour in an adult which makes you worry about any children they care for. For example, an adult may be acting violently or sexually towards a child, misusing drugs or alcohol while caring for a child or be verbally abusive towards a child. You should report this type of behaviour. You do not have to give your name.

3. Who should I contact if I am concerned that a child is being abused or is at risk of abuse?

If you are worried about a child, you could contact a health visitor, teacher, nursery worker, family doctor, social worker, police officer or children's reporter. More information on reporting child protection concerns....

4. If I report a concern about a child, do I have to give my name?

Any information about you will be treated with care. Any details, including your name, will not be revealed unless the child's safety requires it. Even if you do not give your name, enquiries can still be made into the child's care and welfare. However, withholding your name may make it more difficult for those looking into these concerns. Any information you give may need to be shared with other professionals to ensure appropriate action is taken to protect the child.

5. What will happen to the child/young person and their family if I report a concern?

When you contact a professional about your concern that a child is being abused, unless the child is in immediate danger, they will make some initial enquiries before taking action. They will check whether the child is known and what information is held. All information will be treated seriously and acted upon. This may lead to immediate action or a more planned response. Following enquiries professionals may, for example: take immediate action to secure the safety of the child; provide support, help or advice to the family; provide a service to the child or family (for example help with childcare) and, where necessary, referral to another agency may be provided; conduct criminal proceedings; record the concern but take no further action at this time.

6. Will anyone be told that I contacted you about a child I suspect is being abused?

If you wish to remain anonymous when you report a case of suspected child abuse, you can. However, it is helpful if you give your contact details as there might be further information you could give. The family will not be given your details unless you agree.

7. Will you let me know what has happened after I report a child as being mistreated?

You will be advised of the process in the case of suspect child abuse, but the outcome of an investigation will remain confidential.