80,000 Renfrewshire homes drafted into fight against child abuse

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The leaflets are being distributed by the Renfrewshire Child Protection Committee (RCPC) inside the autumn edition of the Renfrewshire Council magazine for local residents.

Tim Huntingford, the RCPC's independent chair, said: "Children who are being abused or neglected can't always speak for themselves. If anyone sees behaviour which worries them, or if a child tells a person something which starts alarm bells ringing, they need to take the child seriously and do something about what they have seen or heard. This new information leaflet tells people what to look out for and who to call to get help."

"We cannot protect children unless we all work together. Awareness of the signs of abuse, and a knowledge of what to look for, are key factors in identifying problems early. The whole community should be concerned about protecting children."

"We must create a climate where people feel comfortable to report their concerns. It's better to say something and be proved wrong than say nothing and for a child to be abused or neglected. Everyone must be willing to express their concerns if we are going to prevent serious abuse."

The leaflets are part of a wider information campaign which has seen child protection advice being sent out in Renfrewshire Council payslips, bus advertising, features in the media, an infomercial shown to nearly one million shoppers and articles in Police, Council and Health Board publications.

The new leaflet highlights the following signs to look out for in a child. If they:

• have unexplained bruising or bruising in an unusual place
• seem afraid, quiet or withdrawn
• seem afraid to go home
• constantly appear to be hungry, tired or untidy
• seem to be left unattended or unsupervised a lot
• have too much responsibility for their age
• act in a sexual way that isn't appropriate for someone their age
• misuse drink or drugs
• tell you something that sounds as though they have been hurt by someone.

An adult's behaviour may also give cause for concern if they:

• act in an aggressive, violent or sexual way towards a child or young person
• misuse drink or drugs while caring for a child
• leave their child alone or with unsuitable adults.

Who to call:

• Child protection line - 0800 022 3222
• Paisley Social Work - 0141 842 5151
• Johnstone Social Work - 01505 342300
• Renfrew Social Work - 0141 886 5784
• Social Work (evenings and weekends) - 0800 811 505
• Police: 0141 532 5900
• Childline: 0800 022 3222

The Renfrewshire Child Protection Committee (RCPC) includes representatives from: Barnado's, the Children's Panel, NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde, the Procurator Fiscal's Office, the Renfrewshire Community Health Partnership, Renfrewshire Council, Scottish Children’s Reporter Administration and Strathclyde Police.

Press release: Monday 8 September 2008