We must do more to reduce the risk of child abuse and neglect in families facing adversity, says Peter Wanless.
We know that substance misuse, domestic abuse and mental health problems are significant risk factors for child abuse and neglect. We also know that getting the right help for children and families early on can make a big difference.
Where parents face these types of issues, it can be difficult for them to deal with family life and can put significant pressure on relationships. For the child, their experiences of growing up in this environment can have a deep and long-lasting impact on their physical and emotional development.
We can change that. With early intervention and the right support for parents we can change these children’s lives and help families live happily together.
