Safeguarding Children

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Every child has the right to grow up in a caring and safe environment. Most children get the love and care they need to grow into healthy, happy adults.

But sadly some children aren't loved by the people who are supposed to care for them. Others suffer because their parents can't cope with difficult times. Some adults even deliberately hurt children.

Child abuse

Child abuse can take many different forms. It could be physical, emotional, sexual or through neglect. A child may suffer from more than one type of abuse at a time. Younger children may not even realise they're being abused.

See the NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) website for information on when to worry about a child. You can also find useful information on the website of the Manchester Safeguarding Children Board (MSCB).

Are you worried that a child or young person is being abused?

Talk to someone you trust - a family member, friend or neighbour to see if they share your concerns. You can support each other and take action together.

Then contact any of these agencies:

  • Manchester City Council Social Care service (formerly Social Services): phone 0161 255 8250.
  • the NSPCC Child Protection Helpline: phone 0808 800 5000
  • the police: in an emergency phone 999, otherwise phone 0161 872 5050
  • another professional like a doctor, teacher or health visitor
Or would you rather talk to us?

If you prefer to talk to a Northwards staff member rather than directly to one of these agencies, that is fine. See Safeguarding children: the Northwards approach.

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