Child Protection

A Shared Responsibility

‘It’s everyone’s job to make sure I’m alright’, published by the Scottish Executive in 2002, stressed that child protection is everyone’s responsibility.  ‘Everyone’ means just that - a shared responsibility between communities, voluntary organisations and statutory services.

It is sometimes the case that children at risk of serious harm do not come to the attention of the agencies that can help until matters reach a point where compulsory measures may be needed to protect them. Wouldn’t it be so much better if we could identify vulnerable children and intervene early enough to prevent them from experiencing serious harm.

There are many types of harm, including: neglect of the child’s physical, developmental or emotional needs; physical or sexual abuse; living with chaotic drug/alcohol users, with domestic violence or in other high risk situations.
If you are worried that a child may be at risk of serious harm, please make early contact with a professional to discuss your concerns. This will help professionals to build up a picture of the needs of vulnerable children and their families, and to offer appropriate, early interventions and support to address these.

You can discuss your concerns with any one of a range of professionals including:

• NHS staff - e.g. GP, health visitor, school nurse
• Education staff - e.g. teachers, nursery staff, children’s support workers
• Police
• Social Workers

Alternatively you can report any concerns by phoning:  01463 703488.  Please note, this number is for reporting concerns only.  General enquiries should be directed to CPAdmin@highland.gov.uk.         
Where a child is at immediate risk of serious harm contact the Police or your local Social Work Office.

Further information can be found on our website:

http://www.protectinghighlandschildren.org/htm/hcpc.php