There are a large number of professionals within the health service who have a lot of contact with children, young people and their families. These include:

• GPs
• Community and hospital-based paediatricians
• Public Health Nurse/Health Visitors
• School Nurses
• Midwives
• Child and Family Psychiatric and Psychological services
• The various specialist disciplines within a hospital who may meet children, young people and their families for a variety of reasons (eg A&E, ENT etc.)

All of these people may come across children and young people who have injuries or other health issues, or display other symptoms or behaviours that may cause concern about possible abuse or neglect.

They may also be aware of health problems that parents or carers suffer from that may affect their ability to care appropriately for the children or young people in their care. In such circumstances they will consult with colleagues to consider what support or course of action can best improve the situation for the child or young person and their family.