Parents, carers and families
As a parent, carer, neighbour or anyone in contact with children and families you may at times have concerns about the welfare of a child. These could be concerns about their development, appearance or behaviour which may indicate signs of abuse.
Concerns about child welfare
Good parenting involves caring for children’s basic needs. This includes:
- keeping them safe
- showing them warmth and love
- providing the stimulation needed for their development and to help them achieve their potential
- providing a stable environment where they experience consistent guidance and boundaries.
As a parent, carer, neighbour, or anyone in contact with children and families, you may at times have concerns about the welfare of a child. These could be concerns about their development, appearance or behaviour which may indicate signs of abuse.
If you are concerned about a child
It is important to act as quickly as possible if you think a child is being harmed.
If you think a child may be in danger, is at risk, is being mistreated, or you have concerns about a child's wellbeing, you should pass on your concerns to children's social care or the police.
If you think a child is being abused or neglected, contact the Safeguarding and Partnership Hub (SaPH):
Office hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 8.30am to 5pm
- Friday: 8.30am to 4.30pm
Outside office hours please contact the Emergency Duty team:
If a child is suffering abuse and requires urgent attention because of immediate danger, call the police on 999
Further information on support for families, children’s social care, and the process:
Choosing an activity or out-of-school placement for a child or young person
An out-of-school setting can mean many things, from places like community and youth centres, sports clubs, and places of worship, to individuals offering tuition in their home, or providing coaching at a playing field or local park.
When choosing an out-of-school placement for your child you will want assurance that your child is safe and cared for.
ERSCP and LADO have created a leaflet to help you make an informed choice about the out-of-school setting, and what to do if you have concerns about a member of staff or volunteer working in such a setting:
