Over the festive period when schools and Early Years Centres are closed, everyone is being asked to look out for vulnerable children who may be at risk of harm or abuse.
It is everyone's responsibility to think about child protection and say something if you see something that just doesn't seem right. It could make a huge difference to a child's life.
East Dunbartonshire's Child Protection Committee* has produced a booklet called 'Keeping Children Safe' which contains useful advice and information around all aspects of child protection. It is for anyone who is worried that a child is in harm's way.
Caroline Sinclair, East Dunbartonshire Health and Social Care Partnership's (HSCP) Interim Chief Officer, said, "The ongoing stresses and financial hardship of the pandemic may be hitting some families harder than others, putting additional strain on parents and carers at what is already a difficult time of year for many. It can reach crisis point and sadly, some children and young people will experience neglect or abuse. It’s always better to say something than do nothing."
Whether you’re a child who needs help, a parent who is looking for support, or an adult who is concerned about a child’s wellbeing, there is always someone you can talk to, even at Christmas and New Year. Any time, night or day there is someone you can call in confidence:
- Social Work on 0141 777 3000 (office hours)
- Glasgow and partners emergency social work service on 0300 343 1501 (out of hours)
- NSPCC Helpline - 0808 800 5000 (24 hours)
- Police Scotland on 101
- Dial 999 if you fear a child is in immediate danger.
For more information about child protection nationally, check out Child Protection Scotland's website.
* The East Dunbartonshire Child Protection Committee brings together the main agencies for the provision of services to children and their families, so that through working together, it can plan effectively for the protection of children. Membership includes representatives from: Social Work, Police, Health, Education, Housing, Scottish Children’s Reporter Administration (SCRA), Procurator Fiscal Department, Local Authority Legal Services, Voluntary organisations and Criminal Justice.
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