What to do if you think a child may be at risk of abuse or neglect

Protecting children is everyones responsibility. Members of the public can play a vital role in helping to protect children from abuse or neglect.

Whilst the child's welfare is always the most important consideration, there is also a duty on professionals to work in partnership with parents, to provide support where necessary and to ensure that children remain with their families wherever possible.

If any member of the public thinks a child may be at risk of abuse or neglect, they should contact the local childrens safeguarding services (formerly known as Social Services) or the NSPCC National Helpline.

The contact details are:

Children, Families and Learning,
Customer Services,
Middlesbrough
Middlesbrough House
50 Corporation Road
Middlesbrough
TS1 2YQ
Tel: (01642) 726004

Out of Hours Emergency Duty Team - Tel: (08702) 402994

NSPCC National Helpline
Tel: (0808) 8005000

If a member of the public considers that there is an emergency situation, they should dial 999 for the Police.