Child Protection – Advice for members of the public
All public and voluntary organisations in Bridgend County Borough are committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and young people and rely on members of the public to report concerns to them.
If you suspect that a child is being abused; or a child tells you that they are being abused; or you receive information about any adult being involved in the abuse of a child, you should follow the advice below.
If someone tells you that they or another child or young person is being abused:
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Show that you accept what they are saying, and that you take their allegations seriously. |
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Explain what actions you must take. |
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Write down what you have been told using the exact words if possible. |
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Ensure that the concerns are immediately reported to the Duty Social Worker at your local Social Services, or the Police or the Emergency Duty Social Worker |
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Do not confront the alleged abuser |
If the behaviour of a member of the public towards children or young people causes you concern:
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Do not dismiss your concerns |
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Ensure that the concerns are immediately reported to the Duty Social Worker at your local Social Services, or the Police or the Emergency Duty Social Worker |
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Write down what has caused you concern including dates, times and other people present |
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Do not confront the person about whom you have concerns |
It is important to remember
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We all share a responsibility to ensure that children at risk are protected from harm. |
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You should never assume that somebody else will recognise and report when children are at risk. |
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All those reporting their concerns have a right to be assured these will be fully investigated |
Who should you contact:
Social Services
Children and Families Division
Sunnyside
Bridgend
Tel: 01656 642320
Police
Child Protection Unit
Coychurch Police Station
Bridgend
Tel: 01656 651 660
You should never delay in passing on your concerns to somebody who is in a position to take them forward and ensure that a proper investigation takes place. You will always be taken seriously. Both Police and Social Services have a 24h service.
Do not worry that you may be mistaken. It is better to have discussed it with somebody with experience and responsibility to make an assessment.
If you are not satisfied with the response you receive, or that the children remain at risk with no apparent action or explanation, follow up your concerns with the person who is dealing with the matter. Where you remain dissatisfied you should contact the Child Protection Co-ordinator at Social Services – 01656 642200
- Last Updated: 05/01/2004
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