Childline: Polls show that many adults are worried about young people experiencing child abuse
In an ideal world, Childline and the NSPCC would have no reason to exist, but we do not live in an ideal world.
We are here around the clock to support children, and our colleagues at the NSPCC Helpline are available to speak to adults who are concerned about a child.
New polling by the NSPCC and Savanta found that nine out of ten adults in England are concerned about the risk of child abuse and neglect, and 82 per cent of those who responded with an opinion believed that child abuse and neglect can be prevented.
Every day, the Helpline hears from adults who have seen or heard something in the street, or sometimes it’s a conversation with a child that just didn’t sound right.
Being aware of the signs of abuse or neglect is the first step to helping protect children in our society. But equally important is having the confidence to reach out to professionals for advice and creating an open environment between you and your child, which will help ensure they can come to you with any issues.
It is important to speak out about any concerns you have about a child, because any report can make a huge difference to a child’s life.
The polling also asked the public what they felt would be the best way to tackle child abuse and neglect. Suggestions included improved coordination between police, schools, health services and social care in protecting children; better education for children on identifying abuse and knowing how to get help; better public awareness to help educate adults about the signs of child abuse and how to report it.
It’s clear from the polls that many adults across England are worried about young people experiencing child abuse, and it’s uplifting to see that the majority believe that child abuse is preventable.
Our organisation will be there for every child and family whenever they need us for as long as we’re needed.
Parents, professionals and concerned members of the community can contact the NSPCC Helpline for guidance and advice about neglect, support with poverty or any form of abuse.
The Helpline is free, confidential, and available to any adult who has concerns about a child on 0808 8005000 or by emailing [email protected]