Child protection is the term used to describe the actions of certain organisations such as Children’s Services, the Police and Health organisations, in their efforts to make sure children are safe from abuse and neglect.
Child abuse can be physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse and neglect.
Child neglect is a failure to meet a child’s basic physical and / or emotional needs. Failing to make sure a child is well cared for and looked after.
Our knowledge and understanding of children’s welfare and how to respond in the best interests of a child to concerns about abuse and neglect develops over time.
The sustained maltreatment of children – physically, emotionally, sexually or through neglect, can have major long term effects on all aspects of a child’s health, development and wellbeing. Sustained maltreatment is likely to have a deep impact on the child’s self image and self esteem, and on his or her future life.
All those services 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, have a duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.