Child protection 

How can you protect children and where do you fit in?
Whose responsibility is it to protect children?
Which children are in need of protection?
What should I do if I think a child may be in need of protection?
Contacts if you are worried about a child
Other useful numbers

How can you protect children and where do you fit in?

What do children need from their parents?

• Love
• Security
• Trust
• Warmth
• Food
• Adequate clothing
• Confidence to know their parents and carers will not harm them

Whose responsibility is it to protect children?

It is everybody’s responsibility from:

• Health workers
• Police
• Neighbours
• Families
• Education
• Probation
• Community
• Nursery
• Children’s Services
• Courts
• Friends
• AND YOU!

Which children are in need of protection?

A child in need of protection is a child who is suffering harm or who is vulnerable to mistreatment and neglect, which in turn may lead to their health, development and happiness being badly affected.

These children need your help.

What should I do if I think a child may be in need of protection?

It is important that you contact someone to talk to about your worries. This could be a social worker, health visitor, teacher, doctor – anyone who you feel may be able to help. They will listen.

Who should I contact?

Some useful addresses and telephone numbers are listed below – if possible contact your local Children’s Services Advice and Assessment team, details below.

Do I have to give my name?

No – You can report anonymously. However, leaving your details in strictest confidence can help everyone concerned – especially the child or young person you are worried about.

What happens next?

• Someone will follow up each report where it is believed a child may be in need of help, support or protection
• If necessary, social workers will talk with the child and family to hear what they have to say
• They will talk to people who know the child such as schools, or nurseries, to hear their views

After this, several things could happen:

• Whatever happens we will continue to be helpful to the child and support will be offered if needed
• We will try and get the right service to the child and family
• If the child is suffering or is likely to suffer harm, a full Child Protection Inquiry will take place

Contacts if you are worried about a child:

Other useful numbers:

• Education Social Work Team (01204 338171)
• Health (01204 463388)
• Police Public Protection Investigation Unit (0161 856 7949)
• Probation (01204 387699)