What can YOU do to report a concern?

If there is immediate risk of harm to a child, call the Police on 999

If you are concerned about a child in Buckinghamshire, it is important that you talk to someone about this. Don’t ignore your concerns or delay taking action.

• You can call Buckinghamshire County Council’s First Response Team on 01296 383962. They will listen to your concerns and decide on the appropriate course of action.
• You can contact the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000 (free service, lines open 24 hours a day). They will listen to your concerns, offer advice and support and can take action on your behalf if a child is in danger. You can also report concerns anonymously. For further information or to report your concerns online visit:www.nspcc.org.uk/what-you-can-do/report-abuse/

Spotting the signs of child abuse and neglect

To spot the signs of child abuse or neglect, look for changes in: 

• Appearance – such as frequent unexplained injuries, consistently poor hygiene, matted hair, unexplained gifts, or a parent regularly collecting children from school when drunk
• Behaviour – such as demanding or aggressive behavior, frequent lateness or absence from school, avoiding their own family, misusing drugs or alcohol, or being constantly tired
• Communication – such as sexual or aggressive language, self-harming, becoming secretive and reluctant to share information or being overly obedient