Child Protection

Children at risk

This information provides simple guidance about children who may need protection from harm. If you are ever concerned about the welfare or safety of a child please contact the Children's Services Child Protection Team at the address shown.

Signs of abuse

The following may help you decide whether a child's welfare is at risk of abuse, harm or neglect.

Signs which may suggest physical abuse

Any bruising to a baby - pre-walking stage
Multiple bruising to different parts of the body
Bruising of different colours indicating repeated injuries
Fingertip bruising to the chest, back, arms or legs
Burns of any shape or size
An injury for which there is no adequate explanation

Signs of possible sexual abuse

Something a child has told you
Something a child has told someone else
A child who shows worrying sexualised behaviour in their play or with other children
A child who seems to have inappropriate sexual knowledge for their age
A child who may be visiting or being looked after by a known or suspected sexual offender

Signs which may suggest emotional harm

The following signs may be present in children whose parents are over-critical and emotionally distant, or who are unable to meet their child's emotional needs:

Children whose behaviour is excessive, for example, excessive bed wetting, overeating, rocking or head banging
Children who self harm, for example, they may cut or scratch themselves or overdose
Children who try suicide
Children who persistently run away from home
Children who show high levels of anxiety, unhappiness or withdrawal
Children who usually seek out or avoid affection

Signs which may suggest neglect

Squalid, unhygienic or dangerous home conditions
Parents who fail to attend to their children's health or development needs
Children who appear persistently undersized or underweight
Children who continually appear tired or lacking in energy
Children who suffer injuries often due to lack of supervision

Positive ways of protecting children

What do children need?

To feel safe and secure
Health and happiness
Appropriate affection
Lots of smiles
Praise and encouragement
To be able to talk to someone
To be listened to
New experiences
Respect for their feelings
Rewards and treats

What to do if you are worried

If you are unsure that a child may be suffering but are worried, or if you are concerned that a child has suffered harm, neglect or abuse, please use the contact details at the top of the page.

In an emergency outside normal office hours, please contact our Emergency out of hours Services or the Police.

Frequently asked questions|