Child Protection Girl

When to be concerned about a child

There are a variety of ways concerns about a child can come to light.

These include:

  • a child telling you or someone about an experience
  • observation of changes in a child's behaviour and/or presentation
  • concerns expressed by a third party e.g. neighbour, other child, parent
  • witnessing an incident involving the child and/or parents

If a child discloses

If a child appears to be telling you about an abusive experience it is important to listen carefully to what the child is saying.

If it is not your job to question the child in detail about their alleged experiences, do not pry or ask unnecessary questions. However, you may have to clarify with the child what they are saying to ensure you fully understand what you are being told.

Observations of a child's behaviour

Children can communicate their experiences without words. A child may become withdrawn or upset. You may notice a deterioration in their physical appearance or health.

Whilst it is important that we do not leap to conclusions about the cause of the changes, you should record and pass on your concerns to your line manager.

Concerns from a third party

Concerns about a child's welfare may be raised by someone other than the child themselves.

Other children may wish to talk to you because they are worried about a friend or inadvertently allude to something which raises your concern.

In all of the above scenarios, the concerns should be recorded and passed on immediately.

Witnessing an incident

There may be times when you witness an incident that raises concerns about a child's welfare.

In such instances consideration must be given to the immediate safety of the child. You should seek immediate assistance and the police may need to be contacted to prevent harm to the child.

Speak to someone

Social Care Direct:
0141 287 0555
Request a Children's Service

Police:
101 - non emergency
999 - in an emergency 

Scottish Children's Reporters Administration:
0131 244 2100

Child Line:
0800 11 11

Glasgow & Partners Emergency Social Work Service:
0300 343 1505

Glasgow City Carers Partnership's Carers Information Line
0141 353 6504 or visit yoursupportglasgow

Carer Your Support Your Way Glasgow

What does it mean ...?

Is there a word you don't understand? Then use our  a-z glossary for help.

See our A-Z Glossary

Glasgow Public Protection Learning Review

Glasgow Public Protection Learning Review Protocol, Notification forms and published documents can be found here.

 

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Public Protection Newsletters can be found here.