What to Do if You Are Worried About a Child or Young Person in South Tyneside
If You Are Worried About a Child, Don’t Ignore It
Most children grow up safe, happy and well supported. Sometimes, however, children may need help to keep them safe.
If you are worried that a child or young person is being harmed, neglected, abused or is not safe, it is important to speak up.
You do not need to be certain that something is wrong. If something does not feel right, trust your instincts and share your concerns.
By talking to someone, you could help make sure a child gets the support and protection they need.
What is Safeguarding?
Safeguarding means helping children and young people grow up safe, healthy and free from harm.
It includes:
- Protecting children from abuse and neglect.
- Supporting their health and wellbeing.
- Making sure they get the help they need.
- Helping them to grow up in safe and caring environments.
Keeping children safe is everyone’s responsibility.
Parents, carers, family members, neighbours, friends, volunteers and professionals all have a role to play.
What Should I Do If I Am Worried?
If you are worried about a child or young person:
- Do not ignore your concerns.
- Do not assume someone else will report it.
- Do not wait until you have proof.
It is always better to share a concern than to stay silent.
Children’s Services will listen to your concerns and decide what action, if any, needs to be taken.
If a Child is in Immediate Danger
If a child is in immediate danger or a crime is taking place:
Call 999
Ask for the Police.
Do not delay.
If It Is Not an Emergency
If you are worried about a child but there is no immediate danger, contact South Tyneside Children and Families Social Care (MASH).
Children and Families Social Care (MASH)
Telephone: 0191 424 5010
Monday to Thursday: 8.30am to 5.00pm
Friday: 8.30am to 4.30pm
Out of Hours
Telephone: 0191 456 2093
Online
Can I Report a Concern Anonymously?
Yes.
You can report a concern without giving your name.
However, providing your details may help professionals contact you if they need more information.
Any information you provide will be treated seriously and appropriately.
What Happens After I Contact Children's Services?
When you contact Children’s Services:
- Your concerns will be listened to.
- Relevant information may be gathered.
- Professionals will assess whether the child may need help or protection.
- The family may be offered support.
- Further enquiries may be made if there are safeguarding concerns.
Not every concern leads to social work involvement, but every concern is considered carefully.
Not Sure Whether to Contact Children's Services?
Many people worry about getting it wrong.
Remember:
It is not your job to investigate.
It is your job to share concerns if you are worried.
If you are unsure, it is still okay to seek advice.
You can speak to:
- A teacher.
- A health visitor.
- Your GP.
- Another trusted professional.
You can also contact the NSPCC for advice.
NSPCC Helpline
Telephone: 0808 800 5000
Why Acting Early Matters
Children often tell us they wished someone had noticed sooner.
Small worries can become bigger problems if nobody acts.
You may notice that a child:
- Seems hungry or tired most of the time.
- Often misses school.
- Appears frightened or withdrawn.
- Talks about things that worry you.
- Seems unhappy or unsafe.
If you are concerned, speak up.
You could make a lasting difference to a child’s life.
Support for Families in South Tyneside
Sometimes families need support before problems become bigger.
Help is available.
Family Hubs
Family Hubs offer support with:
- Parenting.
- Child development.
- Health and wellbeing.
- Family relationships.
Telephone: 0800 783 4645
Early Help
Early Help services support families when difficulties are emerging and additional support may be helpful.
Domestic Abuse Support
If you, or somebody you know, is experiencing domestic abuse, support is available.
Telephone: 0191 455 6030
Useful Links
Key Message
If you are worried about a child, don’t keep it to yourself. You do not need proof and you do not need to be certain. If something doesn’t feel right, speak to someone. By acting early, you could help a child get the support, protection and care they need.