NSPCC - Who to turn to - Helpline

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Taking action to protect the child

If you are concerned about a child who you think may be the victim of abuse, it is important to seek expert advice.

We realise that the idea of talking about abuse may seem daunting. You may be worried that it could make matters worse for the child. For example, if the family is broken up and the child is put into care. Please remember that this rarely happens. Most children who have suffered abuse remain at home, unless it is dangerous for them and there are no options for keeping them safe.

Or you might think that you will be seen as interfering or a "busybody". But by telling someone else about the abuse, you will be helping to end it. You will also be helping to free the child from the pain, misery and confusion that abuse causes. Speaking out is the first and most difficult step. It's also the most important...

Who to turn to
Initially you might like to speak to someone you already know and trust. But for the abuse to be stopped, professional help is usually needed as well. Contact the NSPCC Child Protection Helpline on:

0808 800 5000

You can speak in confidence to one of our Helpline advisers, all of whom are trained child protection officers. Alternatively, contact your local social services department.

Emergencies

If you think a child is in immediate danger, you should telephone the police on 999.

But whatever you do, don't keep it to yourself.

NSPCC Helpline
Tel: 0808 800 5000
Email: Helpline@nspcc.org.uk

NSPCC Asian Helpline
Bengali 0800 096 7714
Gujurati 0800 096 7715
Hindi 0800 096 7716
Punjabi 0800 096 7717
Urdu 0800 096 7718
Asian/English 0800 096 7719

Cymru/Wales Child Protection Helpline
Freephone: 0808 100 2524.
Email: helplinecymru@nspcc.org.uk in English or Welsh.
Textphone: Freephone 0808 100 1033. This is for people with hearing difficulties.
Fax: 01248 361085