Are you worried about a child being abused?

Most children enjoy generally happy childhood experiences within their own family. Unfortunately for some this is not the case. During difficult family times, everyone who knows the child must do the best they can to protect them from future harm.

If you are worried about a child, the right thing to do is not to keep it to yourself, but instead to contact Social Services or the Police immediately. 

The Children Act (1989) makes it clear that a child’s welfare is of paramount importance.  The Children Social Services Department and/or police have a duty to investigate where there is any concern for a child’s well being. 

Please note that although the person making the allegation is encouraged to provide their name to the Social Services department, their name will not be disclosed to members of the family in question without their consent.

Should you think a child may be being harmed, please contact Social Services, or the Police straight away - they will listen.

If you are unsure that a child may be suffering,but are worried, or if you are concerned that a child has suffered harm, neglect or abuse, please contact Social Services who can discuss this with you:

Kent Police

Child Abuse Investigation Unit: 01622 690 690

Kent Specialist Children's Services - Central Duty Team

Telephone: 08458 247 100

E-mail: social.services@kent.gov.uk

The government has produced guidance, What to do if you think a child is being abused, for setting out in detail what staff should do if they believe that a child is being abused. A short summary of this document has also been published which may be useful for parents and carers.

• Initial Assessment and Referral Form (amended)
• Guidance Notes for Initial Referral Form
• Kent and Medway Inter-Agency Threshold Criteria for Children in Need

(updated November 2011)