Children can’t protect themselves – they need us to help them.
Every adult has a responsibility to protect children. If you think any child is at risk or in danger, call Parentline free, contact your local social work department or Police Scotland.
If you’re unsure of whether to report or not, stop and think – what could happen to the child you are concerned about if you do nothing? It may be your call that gets the child and their family help they need.
We understand that, in many situations, it can be difficult to work out what to do. If you are concerned about a child, contact Children 1st's confidential Parentline service. We will listen and help you work through what you need to do. We’ll also let you know what support is available.
We don't pass information to anyone, unless you agree, except if a child or vulnerable adult is at risk of significant harm. If we think that's the case, we do all we can to help them be safe and will pass on all details to the police or social work department. This may include any contact information you have shared with us.
If you call Parentline, your local social work office or the police, you don't have to give your name. We would encourage you to, in case more information is needed to help the child later on. The most important thing, when any concern is raised, is to keep a child safe.
Many people are unsure about reporting concerns about a child because they are afraid of the impact: will the child be removed or will an adult be charged with a crime?
Every situation is different and each outcome will depend on many different things. The priority is always to protect the child, to help families get the help they need and to keep families together if possible. In a very small number of situations, if a child is not safe at home, they might need to be looked after by a relative.
We receive many calls from adults concerned about a child. These include worries, like:
As parents we all need help. But many parents feel overwhelmed by the stress of their everyday lives. Without support, this can lead to relationships breaking down.
If parents can get help early this can prevent a crisis in families and prevent harm to children.
A parent’s or a child’s behaviour may be a sign of distress. Your call for a child or a family may protect a child and get a family the help they need.
