Child protection FAQs
What information should I tell you?
It will help us to decide what to do next if you can:
- give us as much information as you can about the person you're worried about and their family or carers
- describe what it is that concerns you
- tell us anything else that we should be aware of, for example other children in the family or if the adult lives alone
The best way to make sure the person you're worried about gets the help they need quickly is to phone us:
What happens once I've told you my concerns?
We'll always take your concern seriously.
If the person is at serious risk, we'll take immediate action.
We'll gather more information from others who may know the person. This will help us to assess the level of risk and how best to respond.
If the person you're worried about is an adult, we'll need to contact them directly. We'll do this sensitively and, if we can, involve someone they trust.
The best way to make sure the person you're worried about gets the help they need quickly is to phone us:
What action can you take?
We can provide advice, support and help to the family or the person who is at risk of harm.
We may carry out a police and social work investigation into the concerns.
We can provide services such as help with childcare, home care, carer support or, if necessary, ask another agency to provide this help.
We'll record your concern after an initial assessment but may take no further action at the time. Your information might help us to build up a picture of the person if further concerns are raised later.
The best way to make sure the person you're worried about gets the help they need quickly is to phone us:
What if it turns out my worries have no basis?
This is OK where you had the person's best interests uppermost when you contacted us.
You were worried and we checked it out. Your information may still be important at a later date.
If you continue to be worried about the person, or have a new concern, please contact us again.
The best way to make sure the person you're worried about gets the help they need quickly is to phone us:
Will I find out what happens to the person I'm concerned about?
We'll take any necessary action to keep the person safe.
However, we won't be able to tell you the actions we might take because of the person's right to confidentiality.
What should I do if I'm being harmed or at risk of harm?
If you are being harmed or think you are at risk of harm, you must do something about it.
You can tell us or someone you trust. It's important that you know there are people who can help you now.
You could be a child, young person, adult or older person. Remember, you have a right to be protected and kept safe from harm caused by others.