You can play your part by always being alert to the signs that things are not well, and by acting on your concerns.
If you think a child is in immediate danger, you should contact the police by ringing 999.
If you think a child is at risk, but it doesn’t seem like an emergency that needs police involvement straight away, you can speak to the child protection team in your local area. Find your local child protection team.
And if you’re still unsure, you may want ask the child if they are okay, talk with a professional like a teacher, health visitor or nurse.
Not sure what to do?
If you’re unsure of whether to report or not, stop and think – what could happen to the child you are concerned about if you do nothing? Your call may help the child and their family get the support they need.
We can help
We understand that, in many situations, it can be difficult to work out what to do. If you are concerned about a child, contact Children First's confidential support line service. We will listen and help you work through what you need to do. We’ll also let you know what support is available.
We don't pass information to anyone unless you agree, except if a child or vulnerable adult is at risk of significant harm. If we think that's the case, we do all we can to help them be safe by passing on details to the police or social work department. This may include any contact information you have shared with us.
What happens if you report a concern?
Many people are unsure about reporting concerns about a child because they are afraid of the impact: will the child be removed or will an adult be charged with a crime?
Every situation is different and each outcome will depend on many different things. The priority is always to protect the child, to help families get the help they need and to keep families together wherever possible. In a very small number of situations, if a child is not safe at home, they might need to be looked after by a relative or taken in to care.
If you call our support line, your local social work office or the police, you don't have to give your name (although we would always encourage you to, in case more information is needed to help the child). The most important thing, when any concern is raised, is to keep a child safe.
Common concerns
We receive many calls from adults concerned about a child. These include worries, like:
- I think my child has been sexually abused.
- I hear the neighbours hitting / shouting at each other / their kids.
- The children are unusually quiet and look neglected.
- My son refuses to go to his Dad’s and won’t say why.
- Children are left on their own.
- I feel something’s not right but I’m not sure what.
Early help can prevent a crisis
As parents we all need help. But many parents feel overwhelmed by the stress of their everyday lives, without support, this can lead to bigger problems.
If parents can get help early this can prevent a family crisis and protect children from harm.
A parent’s or a child’s behaviour may be a sign of distress. Your call about a child or a family may protect them and get a family the help they need.
