What should I do if I think a child is being abused?
Covid-19 statement
If you are worried about a child, please follow the usual procedures; the contact and referral process remains the same.
What is child abuse?
There are different types of abuse. It can include:
- Physical injury – such as hitting, shaking, punching and kicking
- Neglect – not being properly fed, clothed or medical needs not being met
- Emotional abuse – when a child is starved of love and affection, or is constantly criticised humiliated or bullied
- Sexual abuse – including inappropriate sexual behaviour, language or assault
Who has the responsibility to protect children?
We all do. Whether we are:
- Family
- Friends
- Neighbours
- Members of the public
- People who work with children – like teachers, health professionals and youth workers
If you have concerns about a child’s welfare, or feel that they may be being abused or neglected, please contact the
- Integrated Contact and Referral Team (iCART) 0151 907 8305 (9am-5pm Monday to Thursday, 9am-4.30pm Fridays)
- Emergency Duty Team 0345 050 0148 (5pm-9am Monday to Thursday & 4.30pm-9am Fridays; 24 hours on bank holidays & weekends)
- Cheshire Police 24 hour Tel 101 (Non-emergency) 999 emergency
- Email: [email protected] (always use secure or encrypted email)
National guidance “What to do if you’re worried a child is being abused” for those who come into contact with children and families in their everyday work, including people who do not have a specific role in relation to child protection.