Signs of a child safeguarding risk

Described by the NSPCC as “deliberately hurting a child causing injuries such as bruises, broken bones, burns or cuts”. Physical abuse may include hitting, punching, burning, poisoning, attempted drowning and smothering.

Described by the NSPCC as “the ongoing emotional maltreatment of a child”. It can mean repeatedly rejecting a child, constantly threatening or putting a child or young person down so that they feel unloved and worthless.

Described by the NSPCC as “when they are forced or persuaded to take part in sexual activities”. It can include inappropriate touching, kissing or sexual intercourse. It can also involve causing a child to look at, or being involved in pornographic material or videos.

Described by the NSPCC as “the ongoing failure to meet a child's basic needs”. It involves the persistent lack of essential care for a child including enough love, stimulation, safety, food, clothing, shelter, medical care or education. It can also mean leaving a child alone and at risk.

When bruising is noticed on a baby, the Local Safeguarding Children's Board (LSCB) has a protocol that is followed across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

Bruising in babies who are not rolling or crawling is unusual. It is very unusual for a baby to get a bruise during everyday activities such as nappy changes, bathing or feeding. Bruising can be related to a health condition which has not been previously identified. However, sometimes bruising in babies is due to a deliberate injury and therefore it is important that each baby is fully assessed.

The protocol

1. A referral is made to Children’s Services who act as a single point of contact
2. The baby’s case will be assessed by Children’s Services. Part of this assessment involves gathering information from other agencies who may hold information about the family, or who may be working directly with them
3. A request will be made for an assessment by a paediatrician at the local hospital or community health clinic. This is usually done as soon as possible the same day

This leaflet has been developed across the four LSCB areas to reassure and explain the protocol for assessing bruises in non-mobile babies to parents and carers.

What do you do if you're worried about a child being left at home alone?

Warning signs

• Parents who have little support
• A child, who is often seen outside and all alone for long periods of time
• Childcare arrangements that keep going wrong

Action

If there is immediate risk of harm to a child, call the police.

What to say

If you are worried about a child being left alone, talk to the parent, a Health Visitor, Teacher or a Social Worker.

Prevention

Think about shared babysitting and chat to neighbours, friends or other parents. Find out about after school clubs and holiday play schemes.

You can find advice on the NSPCC website.