What is Harm Outside the Home?
Children do not only experience harm at home.
Sometimes harm happens:
- In the community.
- At school.
- In parks or public places.
- Through friendships.
- Through social media and gaming.
Types of Harm Outside the Home
This may include:
- Child sexual exploitation.
- Child criminal exploitation.
- Serious violence.
- Bullying.
- Harmful peer relationships.
- Online abuse.
- Gangs or criminal groups.
- Pressure from older children or adults.
Signs a Child May Need Help
A child may:
- Go missing from home or school.
- Have unexplained money, gifts or new clothes.
- Spend time with older children or adults.
- Become secretive about where they are going.
- Stay out later than usual.
- Receive lots of calls or messages.
- Become withdrawn, anxious or angry.
- Suddenly change friendship groups.
- Stop taking part in activities they used to enjoy.
- Seem frightened of someone or something.
These signs do not always mean a child is being harmed, but they should not be ignored.
What Can You Do?
Stay interested in:
- Who your child spends time with.
- Where they spend their time.
- What they do online.
- Changes in behaviour, friendships or routines.
Talk regularly with your child and encourage them to speak about anything that worries them.
Trust your instincts. If something does not feel right, seek advice.
Worried About a Child?
Contact Children’s Social Care on 0191 424 5010 or 999 in an emergency.
Remember: If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. You do not need proof to raise a concern. If you are worried about a child or young person, speak up. You could help keep them safe.