Published on:
18
December 2020
As the festive season approaches, Clackmannanshire Child Protection Committee is encouraging everyone to keep their eyes and ears open for children who may be at risk of experiencing harm over the holidays.
The message is - we’ve all got a part to play to protect children and young people, even at Christmas.
Coping with the pandemic has been challenging for everyone, but some families will have been under more strain than others. Parents who were struggling to cope before Coronavirus may have been pushed to crisis point during this year and the festive season can put some families under even more pressure. Sadly, some children and young people will experience neglect or abuse.
As restrictions ease over Christmas, people in Clackmannanshire should be alert to signs that a child or young person might be at risk.
Cllr Graham Lindsay, the Council’s spokesperson for education, encouraged everyone to do their bit to help keep children and young people in the county safe from harm.
He said: "If you see or hear something that’s not right, or spot unusual behaviour from a child, talk to someone about your concerns. Child protection services are always available, even at Christmas.
"Don’t wait if you are worried about a child, you can always get help from us as a council or the police. It’s always better to say something than do nothing."
Whether you’re a child who needs help, a parent who is looking for support, or an adult who is concerned about a child’s wellbeing, there is always someone you can talk to, even at Christmas and New Year.
You can find more information about where to get help on the Child Protection Scotland website https://www.childprotection.scot/ or from your local council’s children and families team, phone 01259 225000. If you are very worried about a child you should call Police Scotland on 101, or if you think a child is in immediate danger please call 999.