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Child Protection - What to do if you have concerns

 

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What to do if you have concerns

If you see behaviour that is of concern, or if a child or young person tells you something, you need to take them seriously, do something about it and speak to someone. This could be a teacher, a doctor, a health visitor, a social worker, a police officer or nursery staff.

You could also speak to a confidential helpline such as:

  • Childline, Tel: 0800 1111
  • Parentline, Tel: 0808 800 2222
If, however your concerns are immediate, please contact the Police or Social Work Services without delay

Tel: Social Work

Children and Families Duty Social Worker on Tel: 0131 271 3860

(9am – 5pm, Monday to Thursday or 9am – 3.45pm, Friday) or

Outside of these hours, the Emergency Social Work Service on Tel: 0800 731 6969 or,

Tel: Police

Police, Family Protection Unit on Tel: 0131 654 5528 or

Tel: 999.

Remember, safeguarding the welfare of children and young people and protecting them from harm from others is everyone’s responsibility: families, neighbours, professionals and members of communities play a vital role in protecting children and all concerns should be shared without delay.

 

To ensure a child gets the best possible help:

  • Give as much information as you can about the child or young person and their family or carer
  • Describe what it was that you saw or heard and what it was that concerned you;
  • Let the person know if there are other things they should be aware of, for example, immediate risks for the child or any other children that may be at risk

 

Will you need to give your 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. Please be aware however that withholding your name can make it more difficult for those looking into the concerns.

Any information you give may need to be shared with other professionals to ensure appropriate action is taken to protect the child.

Fionna Miskelly*  0131 271 3676

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