Children and Young People at Risk

This is an uncertain and difficult time for many, as we all adapt to a different way of life.

Children and young people are now spending significantly more time at home, potentially placing them at increased risk of harm.

Usually, children and young people are normally seen by many different people each day, including teachers, neighbours, grandparents and their peers. As many homes are now in isolation, this contact has been taken away. If a child is experiencing abuse, there aren't as many opportunities for others to spot the signs, or for them to access support, in turn increasing their vulnerability.

As we all spend more time at home, children and young people may be online a lot more to speak with friends, play games, access learning resources and so much more.  This increased time online could place them at an increased risk of falling victim to abuse and exploitation, both on and offline.

It’s everyone’s responsibility to keep children and young people safe, even more so in these uncertain times.

Abuse can take many forms, including neglect, physical and emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and criminal exploitation. It is crucial that everyone within Greater Manchester fully understands the many forms that abuse can take, and are able to recognise the signs.

For some, reporting may be more inaccessible than ever so if you have concerns for a child or young person, please get in touch with us or other support which is available which is detailed below. It is also really important to keep in regular contact with friends and family, especially if there are concerns for a vulnerable person.

You may be the only person a child or young person speaks with for a prolonged period of time, making it especially important to be aware and alert to the risks, and the signs which may or may not be visible.

Resources Available:

• It’s Not Okay – It’s Not Okay aims to raise awareness of Child Sexual Exploitation and provide advice for parents, professionals and young people.
• Trapped – Trapped looks at criminal exploitation of children and vulnerable adults, providing further information, short films and helpful resources to help raise awareness.
• ThinkUKnow - informative, educational products aimed at children of all ages, parents, carers and teachers.
• NCA –#OnlineSafetyatHome is campaign from NCA to help to educate children, parents and carers and ensure they know how to stay safe online.
• CEOP – offers information and reporting for Child Exploitation and Online Protection
• Stop it Now! – set up with the aim of giving all adults access to a safe and confidential place in which to discuss their concerns and receive the advice and support needed to keep children safe.
• NSPCC - The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children is a charity campaigning and working in child protection.
• Childline - a free, private and confidential service where you can talk about anything.