Safeguarding Children

What to do if you are worried a child is being abused

Abuse may take the form of physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse or neglect.

Any member of staff who believes or suspects that a child may be suffering or is likely to suffer significant harm should always refer their concerns to Children’s Social Care.  (There should always be an opportunity to discuss concerns with a manager, named professional or qualified social work, but never delay emergency action to protect a child).

Are you concerned a child is suffering or likely to suffer harm?  For example:

• You may observe an injury or signs of neglect
• You are given information or observe emotional abuse

Key Contacts:

Children’s Social Care:

MASSH (Mon to Thurs, 8.45am – 5pm, Fri, 8.45am – 4.30pm) – 0161 217 6028

Out of Hours -(Mon – Thurs, 4.30pm – 8.30am, Fri 4pm – 8.30am Monday) 0161 718 2118

Police Public Protection Investigation Unit:

Phone 101 and request to speak to the PPIU for the area in which the child resides.  In an emergency contact the police on 999.

Local NHS Advice:

Designated Doctor Safeguarding Children, 0161 419 2030 (or contact 0161 483 1010 and ask to be put through to the Designated Doctor Safeguarding Children)

Useful Links:

Child Sexual Exploitation

Information Sharing Advice

Other useful information/leaflets:

Help is at Hand – Support after someone may have died by suicide