Trust Your Instinct

Trust your instinct is the message of the Tameside Safeguarding Children Board campaign aimed at protecting children from abuse.

Very few adults harm children deliberately and when harm does happen, most families need and want support to put things right.

Social workers and other professionals get involved when parents may be unable to protect their child from harm and need some help.

If you are worried about a child and think that they are not being properly cared for or that they may be physically, emotionally or sexually abused or neglected, then there are some things you can do.

If you think the situation is immediately dangerous for the child or young person then ring 999 and ask for the Police.

If you think the situation is not immediately dangerous but you are worried the child could be harmed then ring Children's Services and discuss the situation. You can do this anonymously if you wish. Please ring the following numbers:

• Monday to Friday (office hours) – 0161 342 4477
• Monday to Friday (outside office hours and weekends and public holidays) – 0161 342 2222
• Alternatively, you can speak to a member of staff at your local nursery, school, children’s centre, medical centre or contact the NSPCC  on 0808 800 5000 

There is a lot of help available for families. Trust your instinct, if you have concerns – please let us know.

You can read more about safeguarding children and young people at www.tamesidesafeguardingchildren.org.uk

Useful contacts

Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP)  - 0870 000 3344

Greater Manchester Police  - 0161 872 5050 (non emergency number)

Tameside Youth and Family Service 0161 342 5434