What Might Make You Concerned?

Knowing when a child or young person is being abused or neglected and may be at risk of significant harm is not always easy to spot. Sometimes it is easy to tell. Sometimes it's not.

It's possible to list some of the signs (see the sections below) that might alert you that something's wrong. However, these sort of lists shouldn't be relied upon to provide all the answers.

People often have a hunch, or a feeling, that something is not right, but might feel they 'don't know.' Hunches and feelings shouldn't be ignored. A child or young person might be relying on you doing something about that hunch. If you don't, they could continue to be harmed.

Many children and young people may be too frightened or unable to say if they feel unsafe. They may not know who they can tell. Or they might not realise that what is being done to them is abusive or neglectful - they might think that this is the way every child is treated and cared for.

Every adult should be alert to any signs that a child may need help. And if the adult thinks that something may be wrong, they should feel able to do something about it.

Back to Top

What might give you cause for concern about a child or young person? -

A child or young person will rarely tell if they are being harmed. However, there may be one or more of the following signs that make you concerned about a child or young person.

If the child or young person:

• has unexplained bruising or bruising in an unusual place;
• appears afraid, quiet or withdrawn;
• seems afraid to go home;
• appears constantly hungry, tired or untidy;
• is left unattended or unsupervised;
• has too much responsibility for their age;
• is acting in a sexually inappropriate way;
• is misusing drugs or alcohol;
• tells you something that sounds as though they have been hurt by someone.

These are some of the signs that may indicate that child is at risk of significant harm and needs someone to take action to protect them. There may be other signs that give you cause for concern - trust your instincts as they're usually right.

Back to Top

What might give you concern about the behaviour of an adult?

All adults have a responsibility to care for and treat children properly. One or more of the following signs may indicate that a child is being abused or neglected.

If the adult:

• is behaving in an aggressive manner either verbally or physically
• is behaving in an inappropriate sexual manner towards a child or young person
• leaves their child unattended for long periods of time
• leaves their child in the care of an unsuitable adult or person.

Back to Top