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How to deal with allegations of abuse

If allegations that a staff member, volunteer, child or young person may have caused harm to a child – or you have concerns they may cause risk of harm to a child – it's essential that you respond appropriately. All allegations and concerns must be taken seriously and dealt with promptly, no matter where the alleged incident took place. 

If a child is in immediate danger, call the police on 999.

If a child is not in immediate danger:

  • follow your organisation's safeguarding policies and procedures as soon as possible
  • contact your local child protection services
  • contact the police
  • contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or by emailing help@nspcc.org.uk

Recognising and responding to abuse