What should I do if I think a child is being abused?

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.