Updated 25 April 2020
During the COVID-19 crisis, it is particularly important that children and young people in Plymouth are safeguarded.
If you are worried about a child, and they are in real danger now call 999.
If you are worried about a children or young person and think they are being abused or neglected, even if you are unsure you can contact:
Staff working within the Gateway and NSPCC are working with a large number of other agencies and the wider community during the COVID-19 lock down period to ensure that children are safeguarded. These staff will advise anyone (professional or members of the public) with any concerns about a child.
The Plymouth Safeguarding Children Partnership is urging everyone to keep their eyes and ears open for children who may be at risk of harm, abuse or neglect during the COVID-19 crisis. It is now more important than ever for members of the public to speak up if they are concerned about a child or young person
More information is available on the Plymouth Safeguarding Children's Board website
The NSPCC recognises that social distancing, self-isolating and quarantine can cause stress and changes in everyone's behaviour. Families are under new pressures and you may worry that a child is withdrawn, anxious or depressed. Spotting the signs of abuse might be more difficult and it can be difficult to know for certain if something is wrong.
Some of the signs you may spot include:
These signs don't necessary mean that a child is being abused, there could be a number of other things happening in their life which are affecting their behaviours, but by contacting Plymouth Gateway on 01752 668000 or NSPCC on 0808 800 5000 they can assess the situation.
There is a lot of advice and support for parents, children and young people on keeping safe on line.
