Keeping children safe

We have a responsibility to keep all children and young people safe, and ensure they're not at risk of neglect, harm or abuse. Children and young people in need of protection are usually our most vulnerable and at the greatest risk of social exclusion.

When we receive an allegation

If we receive details suggesting that a child or young person is suffering, or is likely to suffer, from neglect or any kind of abuse (physical, emotional or sexual), we have a duty under the Children Act 1989 to investigate those claims. Find out how we investigate allegations of child neglect or abuse.

Who we work with to keep children and young people safe

To keep children and young people safe, we work with all kinds of agencies and professionals, including those in nurseries, schools, the health sector, colleges, adult services, and the voluntary sector. If we believe a child or young person is at risk of significant harm, it's essential that we work with some or all of these agencies.

We also work with the child or young person and their family, to find out exactly what the problems are so we can put the support in place to keep them safe. Wherever possible, we try to keep families together. By giving families help and support early, we can stop problems from escalating and prevent the need for intervention from specialist services.

More information

You can find more details about how we keep children and young people safe on our safeguarding children webpages.