Child neglect

Imagine being a child or young person, being hungry, no food in the house, not knowing if you’ll be fed that day.

Imagine not knowing where your adult is, or when they’ll come back or IF they’ll come back. Or even if an adult is present, imagine they're intoxicated, high on drugs, or angry and abusive.

At a time when home should be the safest possible place for children, we know that the home is where some of them are suffering neglect, being harmed and abused. 

Everyone has the responsibility to keep children safe. Learn how to spot the signs of abuse and speak up if you have concerns. 

If you have concerns over a child’s welfare and want to remain anonymous, you can contact us, online or on the phone - 0800 555 111 - 24/7, 365 days a year. We’ve kept our promise of anonymity since we were founded in 1988.

give information anonymously

In an emergency, always call 999.

We're encouraging members of the public to learn the signs to spot, of both child neglect and domestic abuse, so that if you do see something that doesn’t feel right, you can speak up.

What is child neglect?

Child neglect is a form of child abuse. It's where a parent or carer is not meeting the child's basic needs, including failing to provide adequate food and drink, supervision, medical aid, clothing, or housing, as well as other physical, emotional, social, educational and safety needs. It is abuse through omission.

If you have any concerns for the welfare of a child you can contact the NSPCC Helpline directly on 0808 800 5000, email help@nspcc.org.uk or fill in their online form. You can ask to remain anonymous, which you can discuss when you contact NSPCC.

How do you know if someone is a victim of neglect?

These signs don't always mean that a child is being abused, but if you have concerns, even if you’re unsure, please speak up. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Are you a victim?

Every child and young person has the right to be looked after properly. Sometimes parents and carers can't manage this by themselves.

Visit Childline for more helpful advice and support

In an emergency, always call 999.

Useful links

• Are you a young person with information about another young person being neglected? You can contact our youth service Fearless any time of the day or night, and remain completely, 100%, anonymous.
• The NSPCC has further information and advice on different types of child abuse, how to spot the signs and what you can do to help keep children safe.
• Exploited children and young people don’t always look vulnerable and may not act like victims. Find out about the Children’s Society #LookCloser campaign to learn more about the signs to spot.

28 November 2024