Signs of Abuse
Being mistreated or abused is sometimes called ‘Significant Harm'. The following may help you decide whether a child's welfare is at risk of abuse, harm or neglect.
Signs which may suggest physical abuse
Signs of possible sexual abuse
Signs which may suggest emotional harm
Signs which may suggest neglect
Positive ways of protecting children
Signs which may suggest physical abuse
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Any bruising to a baby - pre-walking stage
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Multiple bruising to different parts of the body
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Bruising of different colours indicating repeated injuries
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Fingertip bruising to the chest, back, arms or legs
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Burns of any shape or size
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An injury for which there is no adequate explanation
Signs which may suggest sexual abuse
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Something a child has told you
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Something a child has told someone else
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A child who shows worrying sexualised behaviour in their play or with other children
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A child who seems to have inappropriate sexual knowledge for their age
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A child who may be visiting or being looked after by a known or suspected sexual offender
Signs which may suggest emotional abuse
The following signs may be present in children whose parents are
over-critical and emotionally distant, or who are unable to meet their child's emotional needs:
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Children whose behaviour is excessive. For example, excessive bedwetting, overeating, rocking, headbanging.
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Children who self harm. For example, they may cut or scratch themselves or overdose.
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Children who attempt suicide
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Children who persistently run away from home
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Children who show high levels of anxiety, unhappiness or withdrawal
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Children who usually seek out or avoid affection.
Signs which may suggest neglect
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Squalid, unhygienic or dangerous home conditions
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Parents who fail to attend to their children's health or development needs
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Children who appear persistently undersized or underweight
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Children who continually appear tired or lacking in energy
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Children who suffer frequent injuries due to lack of supervision.
Positive ways of protecting children
What do children need?
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To feel safe and secure
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Health and happiness
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Appropriate affection
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Lots of smiles
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Praise and encouragement
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To be able to talk to someone
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To be listened to
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New experiences
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Respect for their feelings
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Rewards and treats
What to do if you are worried
If you are unsure that a child may be suffering but are worried, or if you are concerned that a child has suffered harm, neglect or abuse, please use the contact details below.
Please contact your nearest office:
f there is no immediate danger or you need advice or information, you should call l the Referral and Assessment Service on 024 7678 8555
or
You can also text CHILD CONCERN to: 60003
